Books

Megan Nicolay's new book, Generation T: Beyond Fashion takes t-shirt reconstruction in to the world of accessories, fashion, gifts and homeware.

The follow up to the popular Generation T, this book is filled with 120 projects for you to try at home. Including tutorials for all the techniques you'll need, learn the art of tying, knotting, braiding, embellishing and appliques. Restyle a tee and spice up your wardrobe with a Pinup Girl Halter, Knotted Caplet, Bubble Skirt or Twisted Shrug. Accessorize with Macrame Belts, Braided Headbands and a Hooded Scarf. Decorate your home with Knotted Pillows, a Laptop Sleeve, Drinking Coasters or a Royal Flush Toilet Lid Cover.

There are also projects for making maternity wear, male and female fashion, pet toys, sportswear, and baby accessories. The book even includes a range of blank figures, so that you can design your own projects. It's time to raid your wardrobe for unwanted tees and get crafty, because there are endless options for giving them new life. Y

ou can pick up a copy of the book from Workman or the Generation T website. Check out a sample project from this book, Grocery Tote.

Illustration is a vital part of fashion design and with Fashion Illustration School by Carol A Nunnelly, you can learn everything you need to know and start drawing your own professional fashion illustrations.

"A complete handbook for aspiring designers and illustrators", the book is filled with hundreds of examples, ranging from classic to contemporary in style. With detailed studies on drawing faces and expressions, the book also includes in-depth guides to drawing hands and feet. Once you've worked your way up to drawing bodies, you can learn how to illustrate clothing and accessories in a realistic and expressive way.

You will also learn how to use colour, get to grips with proportions, illustrate poses and draw textures. If you're an aspiring designer, this is a must have book, as you will learn how to express your ideas and enhance your designs, with stylish illustrations, which will do your work justice.

You can pick up a copy of the book now from Thames & Hudson publishers.

Indie rock band, Xiu Xiu have turned their attention to art and collaborated on a new book titled The Polaroid Project, which includes dozens of photographs that give an intimate and revealing look at the band.

By encouraging fans to bring polaroid cameras along to gigs and take photographs, the band have managed to document their tour in an innovative and unique way, capturing scenic shots, portraits and interesting finds on the road. Like an all access pass, it feels as though you can go backstage and get an insiders view of the band.

Perfect for any fan, a CD is included to listen to while you browse.

You can pick up a copy of the book from Mark Batty Publishing now.