Like most of you, Nancy Drew was one of my reading staples growing up. Remember these? I’m dating myself by saying I remember how the covers progressed through the years, but there you have it.

My childhood memories of borrowing these books from the school library and reading them like you would eat candy has now become a slight obsession. A love of books + a love of all things vintage has had me on a Nancy Neurosis! It started with this finding this set of postcards from Chronicle Books in San Francisco. I haven’t even used any of these because I love them so much. I take them out and flip through them and they make me happy. I know it’s weird getting a high from paper products, but that’s a crafter for you.

With sleuthing skills inspired by our favorite teen detective, I’ve hunted down some awesome Nancy Drew-inspired stuff for crafting and kitchenry. And I’m saving up for them because I think they’ll make great birthday gifts—for me! Haha!

Fabric

Think tote bags, a fabric clutch–the possibilities are endless! This first one is a limited-run fabric print. I wasn’t able to find it on any of the shops online that used to carry it. Finally found it on craigslist, of all places.

There are several sellers on eBay who have antique Nancy Drew book covers printed on muslin. These would be great as quilt blocks, don’t you think? Some of the very pretty samples (click on the images if you’re interested in purchasing them):

Cookbook

How can you become a really good cook?

“It’s no mystery,” Nancy Drew reveals. “You must do what fine cooks have always done—add your own special touch.”

YES, there IS such a thing! The Nancy Drew Cookbook was published by Grosset & Dunlap in 1973. It was a collection of thematic recipes, with titles like “Double Jinx Salad” and “Haunted Showboat Pralines,” using characters from the well-loved book series. Even Hannah Gruen, the Drews’ beloved housekeeper, shares some of her favorite recipes.

It was re-released in 2005, with a brand-new cover that still features a charming vintage drawing of our titian-haired detective. Currently available on Amazon.

Now the REAL mystery is when I’m going to find the time to craft and cook all these awesomely cool things!