500 Patterns for Woodworking, Laser Cutting, and General Crafting is precisely as advertised: 500 ornament patterns drawn and curated by Fred Arndt. Released 17th Dec. 2024 by Fox Chapel, it's 152 pages and is available in paperback format.

This book is full of a wide variety of small ornaments/decorations which are aimed at precision digital aided cutting tools (laser and digital cutters such as Cricut) and to a lesser degree fine scroll saws. The author has included a *very* short chapter on cutting tool use in conjunction with these patterns, but it is by no means sufficient to learn how to use them (or even choose them) safely or wisely according to the reader's needs.

The patterns themselves are varied and arranged thematically: holiday, winter, stars, hearts & flowers, fun in the sun, animals, hobbies, automotive, science fiction, miscellaneous shapes & objects, and words.Templates are full size and quite detailed (see cover).

All the templates have a punch/hole/hanger incorporated into the pattern. The author/publisher have also included a detailed index for quickly finding specific items. It's a large and varied collection, and especially some of the more esoteric science fiction and automotive themed ornaments are generic on the "not actionable from a legal standpoint" but clearly recognizable.

This would be an excellent choice for public or school library acquisition, for the home hobbyist, for activity and makers' groups, for collective studios, and for crafters who enjoy selling at craft shows. The legal disclaimers contained in the book specify that readers can use them for personal use (but that copyright law forbids the *patterns* from being repackaged and sold, obviously).

Five stars, given the limitations of the instruction contained within, it's a great and varied selection of patterns.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

I found this book to be, quite frankly, way over my head in terms of how to make these patterns. It's my own fault, I guess that I didn't read the title closely enough. I had hoped that it would be a book on HOW to use my tools to make the patterns. Unfortunately, there were only ten short pages covering this, and no real instructions on how. But for people who know already are proficient on how to use a scroll saw (? honestly, they look very intricate to be trying on a scroll saw?), or more realistically, a laser cutter or CNC machine, the book has so many interesting patterns to make. Those folks will find the book valuable.

If you’re a crafter like me, always looking for your next creative project, this scroll saw pattern book is an absolute gem! With 500 patterns to choose from, it’s like a treasure trove of inspiration for ornament-making enthusiasts. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned scroll saw pro, this book has you covered with a range of designs that combine minimalist European charm with classic holiday vibes.

The quick projects—most taking just 15-20 minutes—are perfect for those moments when you want to whip up something festive without spending hours in the workshop. I love how the designs range from traditional baubles to whimsical trees and even quirky vehicles. It’s like the book invites you to add your own flair to each piece, making every ornament truly unique.

The intro section on blade selection and finishing is super handy, but let’s be real—I dove straight into the patterns, because who can resist? It’s like opening a crafting buffet! Plus, these designs are stack-cut friendly, which means I can create multiple ornaments in one go—great for gifting or filling my own tree.

This book reminds me of why I fell in love with crafting in the first place: the joy of creating something beautiful with my own hands. Whether you’re making ornaments for yourself, your family, or even a holiday market, this book is bound to become a go-to in your crafting arsenal. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have some sawdust to make! 🎄

Beautiful book of patterns that was really inspirational. Good quality and a huge variety of different patterns for all tastes.

Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for this free e-ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

There is nothing "wrong" with this book, as patterns and ideas in general are good, and a huge selection is also good. However, everyone will have their own idea of artwork, and there are just too many of these patterns I don't like.

From traditional motifs like Santa, snowflakes, and reindeer to abstract, space-age, and mid-century modern designs there's something here to suit every taste. After a few how-to pages, including tips on finishing the projects, the creativity begins. Ornaments are always a great gift idea, and with the plethora of patterns in this book, you'll have years of gift and craft show ideas to keep your laser humming throughout the year.

This book is delightful, whether to use the patterns as they are or as an inspirational jumping off point to help create your own designs.

500 Patterns for Woodworking, Laser Cutting, and General Crafting is a great resource for many types of crafters. For example, I don't do woodworking or have a laser cutter, but I do have a cutting machine (usually vinyl) that I would also be able to use these for. There are a variety of types of patterns and you are able to get digital versions by visiting a website linked by a qr code.
They are all theoretically ornament patterns, but you could use the graphics for other things, as well.

Thanks to Fox Chapel Publishing | Fox Chapel and NetGalley for an eARC of this book for an honest review.