Through the Looking Glass Children's Book Reviews
Pom-Pom Pals: Book and Craft Kit
Novelty Craft Kit
For ages 8 to 12
Chronicle Books, 2008 ISBN: 978-0811865623
Many children enjoy making things with their hands. There is something deeply satisfying about the process of making something special out of bits of this and that. Using this kit, children will learn how to make some very funny looking and unique pom-pom creatures. Everything a crafter needs to make one pom-pom pal is included in the kit including the instruction book, yarn, a needle, felt, and buttons. In addition to this, crafters will need a pair of sharp scissors, fiber fill, and craft glue to make the first pom-pom pal in the book. To make some of the others (there are fourteen in all) crafters will need to get a few other easily available crafts supplies such as pipe cleaners, yarn of different colors, and beads.
In the instruction book the author begins by showing her readers how to make a basic pompom. She also shows her audience how to do basic sewing stitches, and how to use the templates to make ears, arms, tails, mouths, and feet for the pals using felt. Next the author shows her readers - using well written directions and illustrations - how to make Pompidou, a simple two pom-pom critter. Directions on how to make thirteen other pom-pom pals follow.
Children (and their grownups) will have a wonderful time making pom-pom pals using this kit, and there is no doubt that once they get started winding yarn, sewing legs and arms, and gluing on eyes and nose, children will be well and truly hooked on pom-pom making.
