the magazine

Features

CRAFTING A HOME

Blogging has its perks. For Jim Harbison, author of Modern Craft, the best part is gaining entrée to a far-flung community of makers who have helped him create a distinctive, affordable space for his wife and two children. Plus: How to update a tired entryway.

BY KIRSTEN JERCH

OUR GREAT BIG GIFT GUIDE

We asked 22 of our favorite designers, artists, and green innovators for a list of goods they’re coveting this holiday season. Save yourself a holiday headache and pick and choose from hundreds of their creative gift ideas—from BBQ swords to solar laptop bags—along with six drool-worthy presents you can make by hand.

BY VARIOUS ARTISTS

WPA: YESTERDAY & TODAY

As the U.S. economy circles the drain, a question arises: Do we need a new New Deal? ReadyMade takes a look back at the iconic poster art of the first Great Depression and invites five leading illustrators to revisit the program’s output and create rallying cries for the present moment.

INTRODUCTION BY STEVEN HELLER

DEPARTMENTS

RE-PLY

Your letters

RE-VIEW

Art-minded antics, postcard PSAs, modern model cars, and a brief history of the snow globe. Plus: the best in books, music, calendars, and paper cutters

I MADE THIS!

One reader’s prized project: a gallery and coatrack in one

HOME FIXES

Holiday tips and tricks

SKILL SET

Wire a pendant lamp like a pro

RE-DUX

Three projects that capitalize on empty cookie tins

RE-VAMP

Turn your office party into a booze cruise

RE-WIRE (COVER PROJECT)

String up a set of luminous lamps

RE-FAB

Transform worn woolens into custom holiday stockings

SOLID WOLD

Create an artful table from woodshop odds and ends

THE EL WORD

Drowning in digital photos? Preserve them as unforgettable gifts

HOT TODDY

Stitch together a cashmere blanket

READYWHIP

Meet the baker behind Dynamo Donuts. Plus: How to fry up a fresh dozen at home

MOVERS & MAKERS

Beastie Boy Adam Yauch cranks up the volume on independent films; Faythe Levine celebrates craft in Handmade Nation

MACYGVER

Winning entry: Rx-mas Wreath. Next up: Keys