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Crafts & Hobbies

Are you a master of your own craft or just looking for your next hobby? You have come to the right place, because at Tales you find a wide variety of hobby and craft books perfect for both professionals and beginners. Whether you like action and fun found in sports, games and motor vehicles, or you enjoy diving into the more gentle and cozy creative activities and DIYs, you find it here. If you instead like spending time outside we would recommend you to take a look at our selection of books about hobbies within the field of gardening, nature and animals. We have something for every taste. Are you ready to dive into an inspiring universe of crafts and hobbies?
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  • Save 14%
    - As seen on the hit Channel 4 show Escape to the Chateau
    by Angel Strawbridge & Dick Strawbridge
    £9.49

    Dick and Angel Strawbridge share more charming stories from their life at the Chateau-de-la-Motte Husson. The follow-up to the massive Sunday Times bestseller, A Year at the Chateau.

  • Save 21%
    - The King's Trail through Northern Sweden
    by Mike Laing
    £14.99

    Guide to the Kungsleden (King's Trail), Sweden's premier long-distance trek. Lying mostly within the Arctic Circle, the 460km route across Lappland is presented in 28 stages but can be walked in shorter sections if preferred. Includes an optional ascent of Kebnekaise, Sweden's highest peak, plus notes on huts and wild camping.

  • Save 21%
    - From Kangerlussuaq to Sisimiut
    by Paddy Dillon
    £14.99

    A comprehensive guidebook for hiking the Arctic Circle Trail, which crosses the largest ice-free area of West Greenland, 25-30 miles north of the Arctic Circle. At just over 100 miles long, and taking 7 to 10 days to complete, this splendid backpacking route runs from Kangerlussuaq to Sisimiut - both with airport access.

  • Save 24%
    - The Definitive Visual History
    by DK
    £18.99

    Suitable for aviation buffs, covering the enduring impact that aircraft has on society as an object of curiosity, a symbol of luxury, and an essential weapon of war, this title is all about the men, machines, and landmark technology behind the iconic aircraft from the Supermarine Spitfire to the Concorde.

  • Save 15%
    by Insight Editions
    £10.99

    In today's high-speed world of overstimulation and overachievement, our personal batteries have never felt more drained. Sometimes it is necessary to stop and take the steps to recharge. Recharge: A Day and Night Reflection Journal supports making changes to your daily habits that will restore and boost your energy levels and the quality of day-to-day life. Each daily spread includes space to track and record your goals, stresses, diet, and activities, and then reflect on the impact those things had on your energy level throughout the day. Featuring delicate illustrations and a graceful, contemporary design, this 90-day journal is perfect for those wanting to make meaningful changes in their daily life that will optimize their energy and overall health.

  • Save 19%
    - Techniques and patterns inspired by traditional Japanese textiles
    by Susan (Author) Briscoe
    £12.99

    Boro is the ultimate slow stitching technique. This collection explores the history of Japanese textile technique boro, and its relevance to the contemporary sewer looking for sustainable sewing techniques.

  • Save 24%
    - A Contemporary Guide to Quilting by Hand
    by Julius Arthur
    £15.99

    20 stylish quilting projects for you and your home

  • Save 20%
    - Expanded Edition
    by William Robinson
    £23.99

    First published in 1870, The Wild Garden challenged the prevailing garden style of the day and advocated a naturalistic style, in which hardy plants, both native and exotic, are arranged in groupings that mimic wild landscapes. Thanks to Robinson's passionate advocacy, the naturalistic style triumphed, andRobinsons urgent message continues to resonate today.For this newly designed edition, Rick Darke has written an introductory essay that not only underscores Robinson's importance in the evolution of garden design and ecology, but also explains his relevance for today's gardeners, designers, and landscape professionals. The book contains over 100 stunning photographs taken by Darke, including images of Gravetye and of modern ';wild' gardens.

  • Save 24%
    - The complete guide to sustainable living today
    by Dick and James Strawbridge
    £18.99

  • Save 22%
    - 60 mountain and levada routes on Madeira and Porto Santo
    by Paddy Dillon
    £13.99

    A walking guide to the islands of Madeira and Porto Santo. Selection of varied day walks exploring Madeira's network of levadas (water channels) as well as routes across steep and rugged mountains, with slopes of bare rock or laurisilva 'cloud' forest. The neighbouring island of Porto Santo offers easy walking and a sandy beach.

  • Save 14%
    - How one man and his cat found hope on the streets
    by James Bowen
    £9.49

    The original bestseller and heartwarming story of the life-saving friendship between a man and his streetwise cat'[Bob] has entranced London like no feline since the days of Dick Whittington.' (Evening Standard)'A heartwarming tale with a message of hope' (Daily Mail)'Reminded me how amazing having a cat can be' (Glamour)* * * * * * * *The uplifting true story of an unlikely friendship between a man on the streets of Covent Garden and the ginger cat who adopts him and helps him heal his life. Now a major motion picture starring Luke Treadaway.When James Bowen found an injured, ginger street cat curled up in the hallway of his sheltered accommodation, he had no idea just how much his life was about to change. James was living hand to mouth on the streets of London and the last thing he needed was a pet.Yet James couldn't resist helping the strikingly intelligent tom cat, whom he quickly christened Bob. He slowly nursed Bob back to health and then sent the cat on his way, imagining he would never see him again. But Bob had other ideas.Soon the two were inseparable and their diverse, comic and occasionally dangerous adventures would transform both their lives, slowly healing the scars of each other's troubled pasts.A Street Cat Named Bob is a moving and uplifting story that will touch the heart of anyone who reads it.IF you love A Street Cat Named Bob, don't miss The Little Book of Bob, the new book from James and Bob.

  • Save 21%
    by DK
    £14.99

    Know, grow, and create beautiful bonsai - now available in PDFStep-By-Step Bonsai is the ultimate introduction to bonsai trees, with illustrated step-by-step projects to make bonsai for beginners simple and achievable. With an A-Z directory of bonsai tree care, you'll learn the key techniques needed to create your own beautiful miniature landscapes. Author and internationally renowned bonsai artist Peter Warren has taught and worked all over the world and brings you the best of Japanese bonsai. His expertise will introduce you to the tools you'll need, tips for bonsai tree care, styling ideas and how to get the best from your bonsai plants. A complete 'how to' on planting, propagation, pruning and training techniques, plant care, and siting. Bonsai trees will bring serenity to your garden and make your landscape truly unique, even in an urban setting. With traditional techniques, display ideas and 20 contemporary projects for your miniature trees, Step-By-Step Bonsai uses photographic guides to make growing bonsai easy and approachable.

  • - Fortidens teknik i nutidens modeller - The technique from the past in designs of today
    by Marianne Overby
    £20.49

    Arkæologien og etnologien har været med mig de seneste år. Derfor er min påstand at Nålebindingsteknikken er lige så gammel som vævning, der kunne udvikles fra det tidspunkt hvor mennesker blev fastboende som agedyrkere og kvægavlere. De første fåreracer behøvedes ikke at blive klippet, da de selv fældede ulden, som vi kender det fra moskusokser på Grønland. I dag kender vi bl.a. til Soay-fåret fra de Ydre Hebrider og Mongoliet.At Nålebinding må være brugt af mennesker gennem mere end 100.000 år kan nu ikke være en umulig tanke, dersom der stadig bliver fremstillet bæreposer, fiskenet og andet i fx plante-materiale. Teknikken er blevet og bliver brugt jorden rundt, efterhånden som mennesker har befolket de enkelte kontinenter. Specialiseringen er dog først og fremmed nødvendiggjort af klimaet i Norden, i Skandinavien og de Baltiske områder, samt den vestlige del af Rusland. For at forgængeligt materiale som uld, pileflet og træting skal kunne overleve i flere tusind år, må der være optimale forhold, der gør, at disse ting ikke nedbrydes.The Archaeology and Ethnology has been with me for the last couple of years. My allegation is therefore: The technique of Nålebinding is just as old as weaving, which could be developed from the time where human beings became permanent settlers taking care of agriculture and livestock. The oldest race of sheep is the Soay from Outer Hebrides Islands in the Atlantic Sea west of Scotland and another race still living in Mongolia. These old races throw their wool just like the Muskox in Greenland.Nålebinding must have been used by man for more than 100.000 years, as they had the need to carry and keep various things - and furthermore you can find the technique still in use all over the world. Often it is various kinds of grasses and lianas. The special use here in the Northern Europe was necessary due to the cold climate.Unfortunately items made out of perishable materials cannot last for long as metals. This is why only a few things have survived. Archaeologists know that only 5% of all kinds of utensils have survived since the Iron Age. But still finds can provide knowledge of what kind of live humans have had for several millenniums.

  • Save 10%
    - A Collection of Comics about Dating Your Best Friend
    by Catana Chetwynd
    £8.99

    A collection of comics that perfectly captures the honest, playful, and relatable snapshots of romantic life.

  • Save 23%
    - A New Way to Think - and Drink - Whisky
    by Eddie Ludlow
    £15.49

    Eddie Ludlow is a Keeper of the Quaich and the founder of The Whisky Lounge, the biggest provider of whisky events in the UK. Based in York, The Whisky Lounge runs tastings, events, festivals and schools across the UK, and beyond. Their UK events attracted 35,000 visitors in 2018. Having worked in various parts of the industry, including for Ardbeg & Glenmorangie and Oddbins, Eddie has possibly brought more whisky to more people and parts of the UK than anyone else. Eddie has been an IWSC whisky judge since 2008.

  • Save 29%
    - The Ultimate Book
    by Stefan Maiwald
    £31.99

    This volume introduces the most exclusive, sophisticated, and spectacular golf resorts in the world. Text in English and German.

  • Save 23%
    - Psychological exercises to develop self-understanding
    by The School of Life
    £15.49

    This book is designed to help us create a psychological portrait of ourselves with the use of some far more unusual, oblique, entertaining and playful prompts. The questions are designed to help us cumulatively appreciate how rich our identities are and how complicated, beautiful and sometimes painful our experiences have been.

  • Save 29%
    - Highsnobiety Guide to Street Fashion and Culture
     
    £28.49

    Street fashion and urban culture have come a long way from humble beginnings in the '90s. From disparate local scenes in Japan, Europe, and the US, the youth-driven movements of hip-hop, punk, and skateboarding have finally infiltrated high fashion. Brands are now eager to collaborate with the icons of music and art who are leading this creative crossover. Customers will stand in line for hours to be the first to own exclusive pieces designed by the likes of Pharrell Williams, Kanye West, and Tom Sachs. Based in New York, Berlin, and Tokyo, lifestyle publication Highsnobiety is at the forefront of this global phenomenon. The Incomplete immortalizes the stories of brands ranging from Supreme to COMME des GARÇONS. Alongside the most influential designers and tastemakers, Higsnobiety highlights the pieces and brands in men's fashion which have stood the test of time.

  • Save 20%
    by Lonely Planet
    £11.99

    Lonely Planet Epic Bike Rides of the World is an inspiring and captivating book by the renowned author, Lonely Planet. Published in 2019 by Lonely Planet Global Limited, this book takes you on a journey through some of the most thrilling bike rides across the globe. The book, belonging to the travel genre, is a treasure trove for cycling enthusiasts and explorers alike. It brings to life the thrill and joy of cycling through picturesque landscapes, rugged terrains, and exotic locales. With its vivid descriptions and engaging narrative, Lonely Planet not only introduces you to epic bike rides but also stirs the wanderlust in you. It's a must-read for anyone who loves adventure and exploration. Published by Lonely Planet Global Limited, this book is a testament to their commitment to providing readers with unique and enriching experiences. Dive into Lonely Planet Epic Bike Rides of the World, and embark on an unforgettable journey.

  • Save 22%
    - The Complete Modern Guide to Horse Feet - Anatomy, Care and Health, Disease Diagnosis and Treatment
    by Susan Kauffmann
    £31.99

    The equine hoof is a complex marvel of natural engineering, built to withstand tremendous forces and able to adapt to an astonishing range of environmental conditions. It also changes daily‿for better or for worse‿in response to external and internal factors. Few horse owners have the opportunity to acquire a deep understanding of the hoof, which limits their ability to advocate on their horses' behalf and make informed decisions about hoof care and management. This book is the first resource of its kind to combine the most current and useful information available, gleaned from the research and wisdom of top hoof experts around the world, with a unique 'hands-on' approach. The authors provide basic terms and anatomy, clearly illustrate the differences between healthy and unhealthy feet, discuss biomechanics and management concerns, and cover the causes, treatments, and prevention of commonly encountered problems, including laminitis, white line disease, and thrush. Along the way, readers are given activities to help them better analyse and understand the most important aspects of equine hoof health, such as hoof balance, depth of sole, and point of breakover. Easy‿to‿follow language, over 400 full‿colour photographs, and do‿it‿yourself exercises promise to empower horse owners and caretakers of all experience levels with the tools they need to accurately assess hoof health and keep their horses as sound and happy as possible.

  • Save 24%
    - A Master's Manual of Tools and Techniques for the Home and Market Gardener, 30th Anniversary Edition
    by Eliot Coleman
    £16.99

    Since its original publication in 1989, The New Organic Grower has been one of the most important farming books available, with pioneer Eliot Coleman leading the charge in the organic movement in the United States. Now fully illustrated and updated, this 30th Anniversary Edition is a must-have for any agricultural library.

  • Save 24%
    - A guide to keeping happy house plants
    by Lauren Camilleri
    £18.99

    A beautiful and practical book on choosing and caring for over 100 house plants, as well as inspiring plant styling advice

  • Save 18%
    by Paperblanks
    £20.49

    AureliaAureliaUltraLined

  • Save 18%
    - The Ultimate Guide to Life with Your Cat
    by Jackson Galaxy
    £11.49

  • Save 21%
    - 86-97
    by Haynes Publishing
    £26.99

    Complete coverage for your Honda VFR750 and 700 V-Fours covering 700cc (1986 thru 1987) and 750cc (1986 thru 1997):--Routine Maintenance and servicing--Tune-up procedures--Engine, clutch and transmission repair--Cooling system--Fuel and exhaust--Ignition and electrical systems--Brakes, wheels and tires--Steering, suspension and final drive--Frame and bodywork--Wiring diagrams--Reference SectionWith a Haynes manual, you can do it yourself€¦from simple maintenance to basic repairs. Haynes writes every book based on a complete teardown of the vehicle. We learn the best ways to do a job and that makes it quicker, easier and cheaper for you. Our books have clear instructions and hundreds of photographs that show each step. Whether you''re a beginner or a pro, you can save big with Haynes!Step-by-step procedures--Easy-to-follow photos--Complete troubleshooting section--Valuable short cuts--Color spark plug diagnosis

  • Save 27%
    - Step-by-step guidance for owners and restorers
    by Lindsay Porter
    £21.99

    This completely new, all-colour version of a best-selling restoration manual contains a wealth of new guidance, particularly on later Defender models.

  • Save 21%
    - Traditional Japanese Folding Papers and Projects [144 Origami Papers with Book, 17 Projects]
    by Tuttle Editors
    £14.99

  • Save 22%
    by Haynes Publishing
    £28.99

    Saloon, Convertible & Estate (Traveller). Petrol: 1.0 litre (948cc) & 1.1 litre (1098cc). Written from hands-on experience gained from the complete strip-down and rebuild of a Morris Minor, Haynes can help you understand, care for and repair your Morris Minor.

  • Save 12%
    - My Unlikely Journey to Ultramarathon Greatness
    by Scott Jurek
    £11.49

  • Save 10%
    by Ernest Norling
    £8.99

    Perspective is easy; yet, surprisingly few artists know the simple rules that make it so. Remedy that situation with this simple, step-by-step book, the first devoted entirely to the topic. 256 illustrations.

The advantages of Crafts and Hobbies 
At Tales you find hobby craft books for everyone. The books will allow you to dive into what interests only just you and to expand on your creative skills will evolve you as a human being. It will make it easier for you to concentrate in every situation of life including at your work space. It will also make you more innovative and creative in general - something many jobs require of you today. 
The hobby books are directed to every level and will inspire you to get started or improve the craft that you have fallen in love with. 
In Tales’ selection of Crafts & Hobbies - you could also get inspiration to get more motion or physical activities into your busy everyday life. We all know that exercise is good and healthy for us, but you may have tried all the most common sports(grene) and all the machines at your local fitness center, and concludes that motion was not something for you. In our selection of hobby craft books you find all the inspiration you need to discover new and creative ways of movement. They will make you forget all about motion and sweat and you will instead just enjoy the game, while you actually move your body quite a lot. Exercising is not only good for your physical health, but also your mental health will benefit from it. You improve our attention span and you will have a better capacity to learn new things.  
Another wonderful thing about hobbies is that it can create communities. When you gather around a common interest you can find new friends, who all like the same hobby or craft as you. As part of a creative community you can meet a great diversity of people, who all happen to be interested in the same hobby as you. A social community around a common hobby can also help you on your way to becoming better to your craft. In a community you can spar with each other and learn from each other's experiences both within the field of the specific hobby, but as your friendship grows you can also spare about life in general, maybe while you knit, sew or play. 

Crafts & Hobbies Trends
Since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic the focus on DIY and other creative activities you could in a home doing quarantine has grown. Many have taken up their previous interest in sewing or knitting and others discovered the wonders of making their own clothes for the first time. Also in light of the climate crisis many especially young people have an increased focus on sustainability and by sewing your next dress or knitting your next sweater yourself you can also make the clothes making process more sustainable. 
The advantages by making your own clothes is in fact that you can design and make it as you want to. If you are a novice in sewing we would recommend you to follow the guidelines found in a good hobby and crafts book that will guide you every step of the way. The pandemic has also increased the focus on the home and garden, and in our selection you find the hobby books that will help you decorate your home in the best possible way, and guide you on how to get a vigorous garden with lots of flowers and life. 

Hobby crafts scrapbooks
Tales’ selection also counts hobby crafts scrapbooks. The scrapbooks either guide or invite you to fill out different creative tasks in order to remember some of life’s biggest events. You can for example get inspiration for how to best remember your wedding in the hobby crafts scrapbook Our Wedding Scrapbook. The scrapbook is a beautifully illustrated guide on how to gather all the wonderful and overwhelming first wedded memories in a well-arranged and pretty package of a book. 

Hobbycrafts sketchbooks
It can sometimes be hard to keep track of all your creative ideas, and that is why a hobbycrafts sketchbook is a good to have. In a sketch book you can collect all your different ideas both through text, illustrations and pictures and have them all assembled in one place, and have them at hand at all times. Who knows, when they might come in handy? You can for example find the popular Moleskine series in Tales’ selection of Crafts & Hobbies. The Moleskine notebooks are perfect as hobbycrafts sketchbooks and they come in a world of variations and colors. 

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