"Created by the mother of a toddler who lives in a small apartment, Katrina Rodabaugh assures us that there's a variety of projects, for toddlers and older, possible even if you're working on the kitchen table with only material from your recycling bin. Better yet, her book includes patterns that can be used with felt, wood and other materials. The author also has some practical suggestions for storing such materials: for example, by folding smaller boxes flat and tucking them and saved paper in a shallow box under the bed.The projects range from very simple--star wands for your magician or princess's costume--to elaborate, like the miniature Airstream trailer and VW bus, and the fold-up playhouse and two-story dollhouse.Overall, what we at News for Parents like most is the emphasis on re-using materials, whether they are security envelopes, cereal boxes, advertising mail or packing cartons, and the fact that most of these projects can be made simple or sophisticated. - "News for Parents"

KATRINA RODABAUGH is an artist, crafter, and writer working primarily with textiles, printmaking, and found objects. Straddling the divide between art and contemporary craft-her artwork, writing, and designs have been showcased in numerous galleries, special collections, journals, and theaters across the country while her handmade crafts have appeared at pop-up shops, boutiques, and various juried craft fairs including The San Francisco Renegade Craft Fair, Second Storie Indie Market, and the Patchwork Show among others. Her blog, "Made by Katrina" recently won the Country Living 2012 Blue Ribbon Blogger Award in the craft category. She received her BA in Environmental Studies from Ithaca College and her MFA in Creative Writing/ Poetry from Mills College where she also taught and trained in the Book Arts Studio. She's worked with urban arts organizations for over a decade and continues to create small handmade crafts, large interdisciplinary installations, and collaborate with artists to teach, make, and organize. She currently lives in Oakland, CA with her husband and biggest inspiration to date-their young son. For more information about her upcoming projects, collaborations, and workshops visit: www.katrinarodabaugh.com