Nesting: Six for spring

The gist: Designer author quizzes peers on how they made rooms work.

Best bit: Section on design trade secrets is news you can use.

Then again: Big-buck remodeling always makes rooms look better.

Verdict: Decor demystified.

"Photos: Style Recipes" by David Matheson and Samantha Ross, Fireside Books, $15.95

The gist: Part of a Pottery Barn series, this installment offers advice on how to best display photos.

Best bit:  Clear instructions accompany looky photos.

Then again:  Get the PB catalog? You've seen a lot of these techniques.

Verdict:  "Recipes" is a misnomer. But the advice is worthwhile.

"The Pillow Book: Over 25 Simple-to-Sew Patterns for Every Room and Every Mood" by Shannon Okey, Chronicle Books, $24.95

The gist: Even newbies can sew room-changing pillows.

Best bit:  Great photography, clear directions from knitgrrl.com-ster allay beginners' fear of fabric.

Then again:  Dandy front-cover pocket holds patterns; once sprung and cut, unlikely to stuff back in quite as nicely.

Verdict:  Even makes tufting simple. A keeper.

"The Paper Home: Side Tables, Clocks, Bowls and Other Home Projects Made From Paper" by Labeena Ishaque, Potter Craft, $21.95

The gist: Homage to the versatility and affordability of paper for home decor.

Best bit:  Useful suggestions for crafting. Love the cover clock.

Then again:  Does anyone really need a chess set made from paper?

Verdict:  Sure to please any who carry the crafting gene.

"Living With Light: Decorating the Scandinavian Way" by Gail Abbott, Cico Books, $29.95

The gist:  How light, color and the absence of clutter impart a Scandi sensibility.

Best bit:   Photos by Mark Scott will cheer winter-weary souls.

Then again: Sections on windowsill gardening, alfresco dining strain the thesis.

Verdict: Fans of this look won't learn a lot that's new.

"Harmonious Home: Smart Planning for a Home That Really Works" by Judith Wilson, Ryland Peters & Small, $19.95

The gist:  Thought at the front end helps you realize your home's potential.

Best bit:  Specific suggestions, inspirations, photos deliver the goods.

Then again:  Nothing to nitpick. Exceedingly useful.

Verdict:  A must-read for getting the most out of your living space.

KIM YEAGER