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Terrific Tassels
by Nancy Nehring Tassels have been around since man created textiles. They have long been used in decorating and with certain traditional religious and secular costumes. Presently, tassels are also very popular for personal adornment and this book is a wonderful resource. Nancy begins the book with an introduction to the anatomy of a tassel, necessary tools and materials. The first set of instructions is for the basic folded head tassel. She takes the reader through the process with clear step by step instructions and diagrams. The book is generously illustrated with colorful photos of finished tassels, ranging from tiny tassels to adorn oneself or ones accessories, to large tassels for the home. I am pleased and somewhat amazed at how much you can do with the basic tassel. Nancy’s methods require no specialized tools or equipment, and can be mastered by anyone with the desire and average dexterity. She demonstrates many ways to embellish the basic tassel with beads, fabric, yarns, knots, needle lace and personal charms. Finally, the last third of the book demonstrates specialty tassels using decorative knots instead of the basic fold. A tassel that intrigues me is the one made of purchased fringe. It appears to be relatively quick and easy to complete. The flat “diamond head” tassel also appears to be easy and attractive. The book concludes with instructions for several different types of cords that can be made to go with the tassels. I had concluded from a couple of tassel making classes that tassels just take much more time to make than I am willing to spend, but this approach makes them more accessible. Nancy’s instructions focus on the basic tassel and the many ways that it can be personalized. I recommend this book without hesitation. It is not lengthy but is packed full of useful instructions. This will be a much used reference book in my craft library. Review by Diana Norris |