Want to show your love for animals in your sewing projects, but feel you need to sew more practical pieces for your home? Look no further than this gorgeous book by designer Helen Rhiannon!In Sew Practical Pets, 18 whimsical and imaginative animal-themed projects have been designed not only to add character and colour to your home, but also to serve as functional items that will last for years to come. From useful items such an owl doorstop, a snake draught excluder and a sheep hot water bottle cover through to an elephant tea cozy, fox pillow and doggy oven mitt, there is a cute and handy little creature for every room. For kids (and the child within us), Helen has also included beautiful cat and dog toys and an animal-shaped apron.Key techniques and basic materials are detailed at the beginning of the book, and all of the projects include easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions. Templates for all the animals are provided on a fold-out sheet at the back of the book.  For sewers of all abilities, bring a touch of playfulness and practicality to your home today with these fresh faux animals that you'll soon love as much as the real guys!

As a fully qualified teacher and lecturer, Helen Rhiannon set up the All Sewn Up sewing workshops in October 2010, designed to help people learn and develop new skills, and to be creative. She runs sewing workshops regularly, teaching people how to make items such as bags, cushions, toys and garments. Her expert tuition has attracted students from as far afield as Spain and Saudi Arabia. For more information on Helen's work, where you can also find a wide range of tutorials and Helen's YouTube channel.

Helen is also an award-winning fashion designer specializing in bespoke wedding dresses. She creates beautiful, timeless, handmade gowns from her home in Swansea, Wales. Helen has gained a solid reputation for her superlative dressmaking skills and her bespoke bridal wear website can be viewed here: