There’s a special mystique about boxes. They can keep things organized, hold our treasures, or conceal our secrets. That’s the inspiration behind this delightful collection of more than 35 projects for decorating ordinary boxes with fabric, paper, metal, wire, glass, and other materials--and embellishing them with appliqu�s, beads, buttons, photographs, artificial flowers, and even old costume jewelry. The projects include a Leather Valet to store keys and change, the Mermaid’s Mosaic Box (ideal for bathroom use), Lavender Matchbox Sachets, and even a Paisley Box Purse. The step-by-step directions introduce a wide range of craft techniques, from papier mache to reverse painting on glass. It’s an inventive way to recycle old boxes, and an inexpensive source of charming one-of-a-kind gifts.

Express your love for the playful, the romantic, the elegant, with these imaginative, colorfully photographed projects based on cardboard boxes. Round up a paint roller, tacky glue, craft scissors, cardboard, a utility knife, and some paper bags. Basic techniques for scoring, fabric-covering, laminating, wrapping, and padding, as well as some simple sewing and embroidery instructions, are all fully illustrated. Try your hand at the 21 gorgeous mix-and-match designs, including a bullion rose, a dwarf dahlia, a fluted rim, a gathered leaf, and other ornaments and decorative touches. Then let your imagination loose! Start with "For the One I Love", a heart-shaped box with silk flowers in shades of peach and rose, or "By the Sea" with its pearly curls of ivory ribbon cascading over eyelet lace. House special mementos in "Treasured Keepsakes", a domed box wrapped in a rusty ribbon. Or make a doll's seagoing wardrobe trunk, "A Trip Across the Atlantic". Whether they hold your own treasured baubles or special gifts for your friends, these beautiful fabric-covered boxes send a magic message.

The creator and host of My Cupcake Addiction—one of the world’s most widely viewed online baking shows—shares her most dazzling and delicious dessert recipes and ingenious entertaining tips so you can throw the perfect party. Whether you’re putting together a simple snack or an over-the-top extravaganza, bringing sweets to the office or planning a trick-or-treat to be remembered, Sweet! Celebrations will be your go-to book in the kitchen. Organized around special occasions throughout the year—from Valentine’s Day to Christmas—the book includes Elise’s favorite recipes for a rustic wedding, a game-day celebration, an elegant afternoon tea, a colorful children’s birthday bash, and many more. Get the party started with the centerpiece cake—such as a Jack O’ Lantern Smash Cake or whimsical Tree Stump Cake—and pair it with Elise’s tasty drinks. Her easy, innovative small bakes and “no bake” options are great for filling out your display and giving every get-together that extra “wow” factor. You’ll find beautiful double-page photos of each theme party and step-by-step photographs that make decorating gorgeous cakes easy—even for beginners. Using the same accessible approach that has drawn millions of followers to My Cupcake Addiction, Elise’s cherished recipes for classic cakes, frostings, and toppings will make any novice baker feel like a pro.

Includes reports of annual conferences held by various trade federations.