Gardening, wines and liqueurs, crafts and herbs at Christmas

A complementary book to Herbwise Naturally which explores winemaking and home liqueurs, and craft uses of herbs. Herbcraft Naturally is also the result of Christina Stapley's experience in organising workshops. It sets out instructions for growing, harvesting and herb uses. Garden plans introduce a treasure garden of silver, gold and bronze leafed herbs for inspiration in design. Beside this is a general craft garden containing dye plants, sources of materials for basketry, stem baskets, flowercrafts, wood-turning, paper-making, spinning fibres and herbs familiar in needlework design. The cultivation details of another 58 herbs, including those to fill a plot for wines and liqueurs, offer many opportunities in garden planning.

Skills from the craft sections are then put to the test in 20 herbal Christmas presents to make. This is teamed with gourmet cookery for Christmas with luxurious sweets and chocolates, dishes for a party buffet and mulled wine. Christmas decorations and superstitions associated with herbs add the final seasonal touches.