Steampunk Softies: 8 Scientifically Minded Dolls from a Past That Never Was - Softcover

If you are at all keen on fantasy and science fiction then you will have noticed that there is a new sub-genre around - steampunk. Think a Victorian era that never quite existed a la H G Wells, Jules Verne, Philip Pullman or Stephen Hunt and you have it in a nutshell. Inside this book are several models constructed from felt and many other things in a style that will be familiar to anybody who owns these author's other collaboration Zombie Felties (also reviewed on this site). Meet sinister illusionist Tompion Zeitgeist with his mesmerizing eyes, or Floyd Fastnkight the explorer who is ready for anything. Then there is Charity Storm with her own wings, and Minerva Dupine who is every inch the Victorian lady detective. If you like steampunk you will be familiar with all these character types, and now you can make eight of them for yourself. This is an attractively presented book with its cream pages delicately bordered with images such as cogs and top hats, and each model has full instructions complete with rather small but informative print, a long list of what you need (all sorts of bits and pieces but nothing expensive) and some useful drawn staged diagrams. There is a full page photo of the finished product along with small photos showing it from all angles as well as a handy line drawing pointing out various features. This is a great book for anybody who likes making things and reading steampunk novels (such as this reviewer) and has the added appeal of being different to any other book about making dolls. Note please that although they can be described as such they are not playthings for children being possessed, like all self-respecting steampunk folk, of sharp parts. Lots of fun.-Myshelf.com Create the best-ever steampunk character dolls from one book. They're great-looking projects, but easy enough for novices. All the characters share key steampunk characteristics and are rooted in a past that never quite existed. Clear blueprints and step-by-step are supplied for every character.-Machine Knitting Monthly

Steampunk Softies offers a charmingly raffish cast of characters for you to make, ranging from the sinister Doctor to the adventurous Aviatrix, and the alluring Lady to the grubbily authentic Prospector. All share key steampunk characteristics - they're firmly rooted in a past that never quite existed (the past of Jules Verne, Philip Pullman, and countless romantic fantasy games), and they have the accessories and accoutrements that make the steampunk genre such a delight for enthusiasts. Despite all their meticulous detailings, all the Softies are simple enough for even a sewing novice to make, with clear blueprints and step-by-step illustrated instructions supplied for every character. And many have dual roles to add a little practicality to their punk existence - the Lady makes an excellent paperweight, for example, while the Illusionist's cloak doubles as a screen cleaner. You'll soon find that you're creating your own fantasy scenarios around these little creatures' intriguing personalities as well as crafting your own special characters. Go on - get sewing and unleash your inner steampunk!