Craft Bookshelves ~ Buying -vs- Borrowing
I love to buy craft books. But then again, who doesn’t?! So when a new book comes out that I want to read I jot the title, author and ISBN down and add it to my “to-read” wish list. The problem I have is my wish list is now a mile long!
About 7 years ago I started looking for ways to get my wish list books. I am not independently wealthy nor have I won Powerball, so what does a SAHM with 3 small children do? She gets thrifty and does some research. Here are places I have bookmarked on my computer that I go to for all my books:
#1: http://books.half.ebay.com – It’s like your local used book shops online. Just watch the seller’s ratings and their shipping fees.
#2: http://www.paperbackswap.com – This is by far my favorite place to get books. No sign up fees to get an account and you can start swapping immediately. Click on the link to read how it works. It’s fantastic!!! And SO inexpensive.
#3: Your local library!! – It’s free! My favorite!! I have moved enough times to know all libraries are not created equal, so if you are lucky enough to have a library nearby check it out. Many libraries now have e-book rentals and websites you can search for books and put them on hold.
Another site I use to keep tabs on my reading lists and archives is GoodReads. It’s free as well and once you sign-up you can create folders by genre, make wish-lists, look for authors etc. It is a true treasure!
Earlier this week I was able to put a bunch of books I have been wanting to read on hold at our local library. I got a notice e-mail the next day that two had arrived. So this week I am looking and re-looking at The Encyclopedia of Paper Pieced Quilt Patterns by Barbara Brackman. Have mercy, have you read this one yet?? It is out of print, but can be found used online for upwards of $150. She does have the e-book version now available on her site as well. Amazing resource book. The next one is 21 Sensational Patchwork Bags by Susan Briscoe. She has authored many books on patchwork handbags, but I know her more for her work with Sashiko stitching.
The last book you see up there is one I actually broke down and bought a few weeks ago (yay coupon!) It’s called The Art of Making Leather Cases, Vol. 2 by Al Stohlman. This is more of an educational purchase for me and has tons of leather crafting techniques I am trying to learn.
So that’s what I’m reading this week! I hope you have found some of my favorite book-loving sites helpful. Have a great Thursday and thanks for visiting! Cindy
