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Book Review – A Well Crafted Home

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I recently picked up a copy of “A Well-Crafted Home: Inspiration and 60 Projects for Personalizing Your Space” by the DIY maven and I have to say, I’m thoroughly impressed. This book is a beautiful, practical guide for both aspiring and seasoned makers looking to add some personal touches to their home. With 60 projects ranging from beginner to more advanced, there’s something for every room in your house.

One of the things I love about this book is the emphasis on using good materials – like linen, leather, and wood – so that the finished products will last a lifetime. The author really knows her stuff and provides all the techniques you need for dyeing or sewing fabric, cutting leather, antiquing mirrors, working with wood, and so much more. And the photos of the completed projects are stunning – they’ll definitely inspire you to start your own DIY journey.

I love that the projects in this book are more than just DIY crafts – they’re carefully designed to elevate a room in a way you’d never expect. Take the large-scale painting with the effortless dot design, for example – it looks like a modern piece of art. And the flax linen bedding sewn with a few easy seams is such a gorgeous way to set off the bed – and more affordable than you might think!

Every room in the house is covered in this book, from the entryway to the living room, kitchen, dining room, bedroom, closet, bathroom, and even the outdoor oasis. I love the variety of projects, from the Dowel Wall Hooks and Reclaimed Wood Bench for the entryway, to the Woven Leather Basket and Soft Planter Cover for the living room. In the kitchen, the Wooden Herb Planter and Rustic Footed Cutting Board caught my eye, while the Heirloom Linen Tablecloth and Indigo-Stripe Napkins would be perfect for the dining room.

And the bedroom? The Framed Cane Headboard and Linen Bedding with Duvet, Shams, and Pillowcases are so lovely, while the Simple Stitch Throw Pillow and Sewn Leather Pillow would make great additions to any bed. And the closet? The Copper Garment Rack and Wall Shoe Display are not only practical, but also beautiful. And the bathroom? The Natural Wood Stump and Oak Tub Tray are so stylish and would add some warmth to any bathroom.

Finally, the Outdoor Oasis section is a beautiful bonus. The Simple Sewn Hammock and Painted Wood Stump would be perfect for a lazy summer day, while the Restored-Frame Tray and Ice-Dyed Blanket would be great for a cozy evening outside.

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Review of Creating a Modern Homestead: Traditional Skills for Real, Everyday Life

Creating a Modern Homestead: Traditional Skills for Real, Everyday Life is an inspiring and practical guide for those seeking to embrace simple living and self-sufficiency in their daily routines, regardless of where they live. Written by Victoria Pruett, the book offers invaluable insight into traditional homesteading skills, making them accessible even in urban or suburban settings. Whether you live in a house with a yard or in a small apartment, Pruett shows that it’s possible to incorporate homesteading practices into everyday life.

The book covers a wide range of topics aimed at building self-reliance, including from-scratch cooking, food preservation, and raising backyard chickens. Pruett’s approach is far from daunting, emphasizing that homesteading doesn’t require an overwhelming time commitment. Instead, she provides easy-to-follow advice that allows readers to take actionable steps toward a more sustainable and fulfilling lifestyle. The chapters dive into:

  • Cooking from Scratch: Offering 126 recipes for breads, main dishes, and desserts.

  • Building a Robust Food Supply: Guidance on stocking up a pantry for long-term food security.

  • Food Preservation: Techniques for canning, freezing, dehydrating, and freeze-drying.

  • Backyard Chickens: Best practices for raising poultry, even in smaller spaces.

  • Gardening: Tips for customizing your garden based on location and season, with methods like companion planting and natural pest control.

Pruett’s style is approachable, practical, and encouraging. She is the perfect guide for both beginners and those already on their homesteading journey, offering a balance between traditional skills and the realities of modern life.

Her personal journey from a suburban house with no yard to a thriving 8-acre homestead in Central Texas adds a relatable and inspiring layer to her teachings. Her focus is on integrating these skills into busy modern lives, so readers won’t feel overwhelmed by the prospect of spending hours in the kitchen or garden.

In addition to practical advice, Creating a Modern Homestead offers real-life stories and experiences that make the book feel like a conversation with a trusted friend. Homesteading isn’t just about farming or off-grid living; it’s about cultivating a sustainable, meaningful life in whatever environment you find yourself in.

This book is not only a manual for homesteaders but also a source of inspiration for those seeking a slower, more intentional way of living, and is a perfect fit for anyone interested in self-reliance, sustainability, and traditional skills in the modern world. Whether you’re new to the homesteading lifestyle or looking to expand your knowledge, this book will empower you to take meaningful action and create the life you’ve always dreamed of, no matter where you live.

The book has received praise from fellow homesteaders like Amy K. Fewell and Darcy Baldwin, who have called it an essential read for anyone interested in sustainable living and food preservation. Ashley Adamant, creator of Practical Self Reliance, commends the book for its empowering message and practical advice.

Creating a Modern Homestead is a must-read for anyone interested in starting or enhancing their homesteading journey. With its blend of practical tips, inspiration, and relatable stories, it’s a valuable resource for both beginners and seasoned homesteaders alike.