Book excerpt: Rediscover the lost world of traditional household crafts with 'the grand master of self-sufficiency' John Seymour. Master tried and trusted methods that have been honed over the centuries and learn to make butter and cheese, embroider, keep bees, decorate your home and more. As Seymour himself once said "we must fill our homes and our lives with beautiful things again and cast out the mass-produced rubbish. This book shows that such things are possible." Part fascinating historical survey, part practical manual, this book shows how many timeless skills were first employed. From basketry to baking to quilting, the book explores a range of fascinating skills and techniques. For country dwellers and those living in the heart of a city, this book encourages a celebration of and a return to some of the wonderful traditions of yesteryear.