Book excerpt: Marrying the new mother’s need to connect and the community spirit of crafting—think reading groups, Stitch ’n Bitch knitting circles, and, of course, playgroups—is The Crafty Mamas, a unique idea in DIY and a full-color guide filled with baby-related projects, essential techniques, tips on how to form a group, wisdom, inspiration, and camaraderie. Abby Pecoriello launched the first-ever crafting club for new moms during her maternity leave. The concept proved to be such a hit that in the two and a half years since, she’s led hundreds of sold-out Crafty Mamas classes throughout New York City. Now, in this spirited, witty book, she provides the how-to for women to form their own Crafty Mamas groups, from learning the best ways to reach out to other new moms in the area, to the nuts-and-bolts of running the group: setting a budget, buying tools and supplies, choosing a venue, and more. Then come the projects—50 hip, no-sew craft ideas that are inexpensive and easy to make, and will delight moms and babies alike: “Light the Night” nightlight, No-Sew Swanky Blankies, The Poncherello, Photo Au Go Go Bracelets, Hip Purses, Insta-Bibs, Peek-a-Books, Photo Bragnets. Includes simple tutorials on using a glue gun, editing digital photos, how to decoupage, jewelry basics, and more.