Publisher Sixth and Spring Books sent me a review copy of a new book out called Gooseberry Patch® Stitching for the Kitchen: 30 Easy Projects for the Heart of Your Home. It is written by the founders of Gooseberry Patch, Jo Ann and Vickie (no last names of either provided). This book mixes sewing and cooking with an emphasis on making items for the home. Many of the sewing projects are accompanied by a recipe. For example the Keeping Warm Casserole Carrier includes a recipe for Mom’s Lasagna. Another sewing project, the Warm and Sweet Mug Cozy with Pocket is followed by a recipe for Whipped Shortbread.

Other than the mix of sewing and cooking crafts, the other element of this book that appealed to me was the fact that most of the projects would be good for a beginner to attempt. I know of a few people who are learning to sew now, and they immediately came to mind when I was flipping through the pages. Even for those seasoned sewers, who doesn’t enjoy a fast project now and then? Plus, there are many great gift possibilities here. For example, you could make the Popover Pockets Divided Bread Basket and then fill it with Super Simple Parker House Rolls.

Along with the projects and recipes, the book includes a “What You Need to Know” section in the back of the book along with an attached envelope-style pocket with patterns in it. Sewing basics and even a little crochet and embroidery are covered in this last section.

The book is 144 pages and retails in the US for $22.95 and in Canada for $24. 95. Amazon selling is between $13 and $16 US dollars.