Embroidery crafts Books

Book SynopsisThere has never been a better time to learn to sew your own clothes. If you want to avoid harmful fast fashion, create sustainable pieces for yourself and one-of-a-kind gifts for loved ones, and curate your own perfect wardrobe, this is the book you need. Get started with the core skills such as how to make accurate measurements, how to use a sewing machine, and how to follow a pattern. Once you've aced the essentials, move on to 15 stylish and straightforward projects (all patterns provided), from colourful headbands to eye-catching dresses and trendy sweatshirts. Some of the projects even teach you how to upcycle vintage and thrifted clothes to create gorgeous, unique items for your wardrobe. As the projects get more complex, you'll practise and perfect the skills you've learned, and build your confidence. By the end of the book, you will be able to tackle any new project with confidence and all the techniques and skills you need at your fingertips. So take some time for yourself, learn a new skill, and enjoy creating your own tailored wardrobe with this beautiful book by your side.

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn inspirational, practical guide by textile artist Letitia Thompson, the world of Mrs Bertimus! In this exciting new book Letitia shows you how to create colourful, contemporary, animal-themed stitched textiles with a quirky mix of vintage and whimsical style. Letitia's subjects range from playful, dancing mice to crafty foxes, their personalities skillfully captured in stitch using free-motion machine embroidery and hand stitching. The progression from idea to stitch is developed in easy stages, providing a valuable insight into the author's creative process and the methods she uses to achieve her stunning textile artworks. Starting with a comprehensive materials and techniques section, the book includes three step-by-step projects, templates, and numerous finished pieces to spark your creativity, resulting in a unique source of ideas and inspiration for textile artists of all abilities.Trade ReviewIt’s not often that you discover an artist who brings such sensitivity and originality to figurative machine embroidery but Mrs Bertimus (the pseudonym of artist Letitia Thompson) is one of this rare breed. In this book she explains how to create captivating animal stitched portraits using fabric collage, free-motion machine embroidery and a dash of hand stitch, where, ‘the thread becomes the pencil and the fabric becomes the paint.’ She breaks down the process into easy-to-follow steps, including lessons on, and insights into, sketching your subject, techniques and composition, and creating original work that tells a story through your choice of portraiture. There are three projects, but all of the examples in this book are a work of art in their own right that everyone will be able to recreate. * Embroidery - Issue 56 *This is a beautifully thorough book about the authors adorable and visually complex multi-media art work. She has given clear photographic step-by-step instructions to recreate her projects or inspire us to make our stitched textiles. Also included are steps and ways to personalize each piece with paint, distressing, stencils, stamps that give her work international recognition. I highly recommend her book for experts and beginners! Hope you enjoy it. -- Holly Angle * Amazon Customer Review *In this book, Mrs Bertimus takes the reader through her creative process, from materials and sketching to finished objects. There are three lovely projects to enjoy, with helpful templates included in the back of the book – I'm particularly excited about trying the little Sausage Dog art quilt. Before the projects, she goes into detail about the tools and techniques she uses to create her artworks so that the reader can create their own inspired by her work. The book is filled with examples from her sketchbooks and finished pieces, making it beautiful to just flick through and enjoy. I love her art style and am looking forward to applying many of the techniques to my own work -- Leanne Cane * Customer Review *I absolutely love Mrs Bertimus’ artwork and the way she lays down colours and textures. Her embroidery work is just an extension of her stunning paintings. The collages are so beautiful on the animals and there are step-by-step guides to follow along. As an artist who has never done machine embroidery before, I feel the instructions are so clear that I could actually give it a go myself. There are pattern pieces in the back but you could try this with your own artwork too. I can’t wait to see the new collection of goodies she has planned for the coming months. This book would make such a gorgeous gift for someone who loves to sew, draw, paint or craft. Buy two. You’ll want to keep one for yourself. -- Lindsay Elissa Coils * Customer Review *Letitia Thompson, also known as Mrs Bertimus, generously shares all the whimsy and wonder of her mixed media work. Whether you want to imitate her style or use it as a springboard to develop your own, there is plenty to satisfy. She carefully breaks down the stages and processes involved in her complex collaged pieces, offering invaluable insight and thoughtful tips. Words and images combine to guide you seamlessly through composition and construction. Her approach with sticky notes will enlighten, and the step-by-step projects will delight. * Stitch Magazine *If you think that all stitched animals are cute and twee, you haven’t seen the work of Letitia Thompson, aka Mrs Bertimus. Her drawing skills are amazing but no need to worry if you don’t draw, as templates are provided in this book. Mrs Bertimus is just as brilliant with art materials as she is with her sewing machine. In fact, her realisation that, with the darning foot on and the feed dogs down, she could turn her sewing machine into a drawing machine, made this book possible. After a very brief description of materials, the book moves straight into the nitty-gritty of technique, inspiration, design, and stitch. From colour mixing paints to working with a drawing, this section has some great ideas for getting the tonal values right. Having made a template and using those tonal values, we go through the process of building-up cut fabric pieces to translate them into stitch. Then it is machine embroidery and working the background. This is a great source of ideas – I love her backgrounds. The section on composition takes us through the nuts and bolts of this tricky subject: balance, orientation and trouble-shooting are well covered and could relate to any textile application. Mrs Bertimus has some excellent tricks to aid composition – but I won’t give the game away here. Suffice it to say that I will be adopting some of them myself. Backgrounds are an important part of any artwork and the ideas in this book could be used for painting or drawing as well as the appliqué shown. Blocks of colour and stitch combine to integrate the subject matter without intruding on the focal point. Paper collage, stitching into paper, gelli plate printing (which is used for design as well as stitch) are all covered. Ideas for using the results of these techniques are also shown. A chapter on ‘Telling a Story’ is useful and covers many examples of story sources and the use of the tales. All these are told in completed works. The final chapter on Projects includes templates for making some of the animals contained in the book. Full step-by-step instructions for their use can also be found here. My grandson is owned by Monty – a ‘sausage dog’ – and there just happens to be a dachshund template, so I might be turning out ‘the full Monty’ soon. All inspired by Mrs Bertimus. * d4daisy Books *Table of ContentsIntroduction Materials Where to start (Core techniques) Composition Going further (Advanced techniques) Telling a story Sausage Dog Midnight Fox Acrobat Mouse Afterword Templates Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisStumpwork embroidery, also called raised embroidery, takes hand embroidery to another dimension and lifts it off the surface of the fabric with strikingly realistic results. This technique uses all the usual embroidery stitches you would expect and includes padding, wiring and slips to achieve its raised effect. Stumpwork Inspirations highlights the very best stumpwork has to offer in both design and technique. Featuring talented embroidery designers Susan O’Connor, Wendy Innes, Susan Casson, Anna Scott, Lesley Turpin-Delport and Jane Nicholas, this special collection, including lovely framed pictures and a pot lid, have been curated into one publication. With 8 stunning stumpwork projects to make, there are clear step-by-step instructions, pullout patterns, a stitch guide and all the information you need to stitch them. Discover the origins, stitches, techniques and designs that are uniquely stumpwork, and learn how to make your own beautiful works of art.Trade ReviewAustralian needlecraft magazine Inspirations has been inspiring (and wowing) people for over thirty years. This book is part of a new series of books, each containing eight projects which will challenge and delight embroiderers. Stumpwork is notorious for being one of the more advanced styles of embroidery, and like just about everything produced by this magazine, I would recommend this book for intermediate level and up. If this is you, then rejoice, because this book manages to update stumpwork for the 21st Century while retaining its lush appearance and celebration of nature. The eight projects depict flowers and fruits, and they have all been previously featured in issues of Inspirations magazine. There are violas, a coneflower and butterfly, windflowers, tansy, raspberries and crab-apples, strawberries and my own favourite, the very Jacobean partridge in a pear tree. The book opens with a two-page history of stumpwork, and the rest of the book contains the projects. Each one is several pages long and has everything you need to complete the piece, including a pattern on the sheet at the back tucked neatly into a pocket. Along with many large and colourful photographs (so useful due to the level of detail in each one), there are staged photographs for stitches plus coloured diagrams. What you need is broken down into fabric, supplies, needles, and threads with DMC stranded floss being the main choice, but also Madeira metallic, Anchor floss, perlé cottons, ribbon, and various types of silk threads. Each thread is assigned a number and is referred to by it in the instructions, which apart from the stitches are mostly in written form. At the back is a glossary of all the stitches and techniques, each shown in a good number of staged photographs. I think my favourite must be the piece on how to utilise a real snail shell together with wire, thread, and glue to make a snail! This is a method the original Jacobean embroiderer would have recognized. A beautiful and inspiring book for the keeper shelf. -- Rachel A Hyde * myshelf.com *Table of Contents2 Introduction 4 Contents 6 Stumpwork History 8 Stumpwork Projects 10 Summer Harvest 20 Anise 28 Viola Tricolor 36 Summer Dancer 44 Sweet Violets 52 Windflower 58 First Day 72 Belle Fraise 80 Stitch Guide

Read more less

Book SynopsisWhitework embroidery traditionally features beautifully intricate designs using white thread on white background fabric, examples of which can be found in many cultures across the world. Without the addition of colour, the fabric surface is ornamented with high-relief stitching, cutting, pulling or withdrawing threads with some styles utilizing all these techniques. Whitework Inspirations highlights the very best whitework has to offer in both design and technique. Featuring talented embroidery designers Kim Beamish, Deborah Love, Judy Stephenson, Christine P Bishop, Susan O'Connor, Patricia Girolami and Luzine Happel, this special collection – including a tablecloth, table mats and sachets – has been curated into one publication. With 8 stunning whitework projects to make, there are clear step-by-step instructions, pullout patterns, a stitch guide and all the information you need to create them. Discover the origins, stitches, techniques and designs that are uniquely whitework, and learn how to make your own beautiful works of art.Trade ReviewAustralian publisher Inspiration Studios has distilled the best of the best from its issues of Inspirations embroidery magazine for new volumes on crewel embroidery and whitework (a third volume, on Stumpwork, is also being released). Each book begins with an abbreviated historical overview. Crewel, aka wool on linen, began around the seventeenth century and gained popularity during Elizabeth I’s reign. Whitework, with any number of variations on its white-onwhite concept, was first practiced by the ancient Egyptians; since then, Scandinavian and other European needleworkers have contributed their own interpretations—Dresden, Hebedo (Danish), Hardanger (Norwegian), Madeira, and Mountmellick (Irish). Each text then leads into eight patterns. Well thought-out instructions, along with clear color photographs, document every step, with specific stitch how-tos included after the pattern directions. Hints and tips are scattered throughout, like suggestions on needleweaving and the fundamentals of blocking embroidery. The book ends with a perfect “show us” glossary of some 60 stitches, complete with step-bysteps and photographs. Design templates, unfortunately, are stuffed in the book’s back flap, not as accessible to those working on patterns. All designs are geared to the more experienced needleworker, but any enthusiast will admire "mandala musings," "garden of earthly delights," "a fine romance," and "tulip." Each book is appended with a stitch guide. — Booklist, May 2020. Barbara Jacobs Table of Contents2 Introduction 4 Contents 6 Whitework History 10 The Whitework Projects 10 Affair of the Heart 18 Heart’s Delight 28 Bianca 38 Tulip 52 Vintage 62 A Fine Romance 70 Sweet Strawberry 80 Sense of Place 98 Stitch Guide

Read more less

Book SynopsisA new, larger format edition of the classic reference work on silk shading by the Royal School of Needlework (RSN). The Essential Stitch Guides provide a set of definitive works on traditional embroidery techniques. Graduate Apprentice Sarah Homfray throws light onto the beautiful craft of silk shading, also known as painting with a needle, long and short stitch embroidery or thread painting. This book reveals the history of the craft then moves on to the materials and equipment required. Next, Sarah covers design and using colour, simplifying and demystifying this often neglected area of embroidery. The main part of the book then covers all of the essential stitches and techniques through clear, step-by-step diagrams, coupled with beautiful, close-up photographs showing how they can be used in a finished piece. Key traditional techniques are included: the fundamental stab, split and long and short stitches; along with couching, padding, adding beads and sequins, and knots. The book ends with beautiful and exquisitely-worked examples and covers working with different fabrics, threads and incorporating painted backgrounds. The RSN teaches hand embroidery to the highest standard and is respected all over the world. It not only upholds the traditions of English embroidery that go back many hundreds of years, but is constantly taking embroidery forward in new and innovative ways. This series of Essential Stitch Guides has been produced in close collaboration with the RSN with the aim of providing a set of definitive works on traditional embroidery techniques.Table of ContentsThe Royal School of Needlework 6, Introduction 8, The history of silk shading 10, Materials 12, Design and using colour 20, Framing up 32 Stitches 38, Stab stitch 38, Split stitch 39, Long and short stitch 40, Running stitch 42, Stem stitch 43, Eyelet stitch 44, Adding beads and sequins 44, Padding 46, French knots 48, Bullion knots 49 Getting started 54, Projects to stitch 62, Taking your work further 74, Further ideas for your own designs 86, Finishing your work 90, Troubleshooting 94, Index 96

Read more less

Book SynopsisRenowned embroiderer and best-selling author, Hazel Blomkamp, is back with a brand new book in the popular Crewel series. In this fifth title in Hazel Blomkamp’s series on crewel embroidery with a twist, the focus is on animal portraits. Crewel Animal Portraits is a celebration of Hazel’s signature techniques: a wide variety of surface/crewel stitches, some of which are brand new, and many with a different take, or different ways of combining stitches to make them more interesting. Also included are needle lace techniques used as embroidery stitches, loom weaving techniques modified for embroidery, and unique combinations of both of these. The incorporation of beads and crystals adds even more dazzle to the intricate designs. There are six projects, each explained with detailed step-by-step instructions and clear photographs, with design templates and a full stitch gallery providing everything readers need to recreate them with ease. The sumptuous and inspiring projects comprise a tiger, lion, zebra, giraffe, monkey and leopard. For embroiderers looking for something different and new to stitch, and for those keen to challenge themselves with more complex embroidery techniques, this book is a must-have.Trade ReviewHazel Blomkamp is back with a new book in the popular Crewel series. If you're hankering after big, complex, designs, these sumptuous animal portraits, often beautifully embellished with floral sections, should provide an enjoyable challenge. You'll use a wide variety of stitches, some of which are brand new, or a twist on traditional crewelwork, to bring to life a tiger, lion, zebra, giraffe, monkey and leopard. * Stitch Magazine *To add to her beautiful and vast collection, Hazel has now released another fabulous book that, this time, gives prominence to the tiger, lion, zebra, giraffe, monkey and leopard. In and of themselves these animals are already spectacular subjects to stitch, but after they have received a Hazel Blomkamp Crewel Make Over… we’re now talking next level stunning. If you’re looking for projects that are a pleasure and a joy to stitch, and a book title that will keep your non-stitching friends wondering what on earth you do in your spare time, Cruel, sorry, Crewel Animal Portraits is the book for you. -- Inspirations * Inspirations, All Stitched Up! *I have all of Hazel's books. This one is especially colorful and challenging. Her use of multiple types of stitches and flosses add texture and dimension to the work. An experienced stitcher will enjoy the designs as printed. Newer stitches will find alot here to inspire them and can work on smaller sections of the designs to gain experience. I encourage all needleworkers to add this to their libraries. -- Angela Smith * Amazon Customer Review *Table of ContentsINTRODUCTION TIPS BEFORE STARTING MATERIALS AND TOOLS GENERAL PROJECT INSTRUCTIONS STITCHES AND TECHNIQUES Embroidery stitches, Needle lace stitches, Needle weaving patterns, Bead embroidery stitches, 3-Dimensional bead embroidery techniques PROJECTS Barry the Tiger, Neville the Lion, Bob the Monkey, Frank the Zebra, Gladness the Giraffe, Brenda the Leopard TEMPLATES STITCH GLOSSARY

Read more less

Book SynopsisAnnoyed? Upset? Distraught? Want to stab a sharp object into something? Then this book is for you. Stitching for public protest is not new. First-wave feminists in the US and in Britain used needlework in their demonstrations and public protest lectures during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. However, needlework and other handcrafts declined throughout the twentieth century, with second-wave feminists arguing against 'the oppression of the needle'. In the 21st century, though, there has been a steep resurgence and many are now turning to crafts, especially needlework, as an activism strategy. Feminist Betsy Greer makes this point strongly when she proclaims 'I think every act of making is an act of revolution'. Inspired by the banners and signs at marches around the world, Really Cross Stitch takes all that anger, outrage and protest and puts it inside a pretty, decorative border. Along with some wonderfully snarky commentary and general annoyance. Featuring more than 40 truly original cross stitch designs, the book contains instructions on techniques for new stitchers from making to finishing a stitch. There is also a handy list of required materials to get you ready to stab.Trade ReviewIf you want some Radical Cross Stitch, or ideas for start your own craftivism campaign, Rayna Fahey's book will do the job! Packed with politically inspired designs, thoughtful commentary and a sassy sense of humour, it's a good addition to any socially minded stitcher's library! * Mr X Stitch *The patterns in this book are 1) ah-mazing and 2) great for any graph-related project. So whether you cross stitch or not, this book is absolutely perfect for any graphing fiend [...] * Yarn Geekery *Table of ContentsIntroduction A Short History The Basics You Will Need… How to Cross Stitch Patterns Acknowledgements

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis book unites Chinese and Western embroidery techniques to create gorgeous practical beadwork jewelry with floral elements that are rich in Chinese culture. The projects range from simple to difficult, giving you a basic yet comprehensive grasp of bead embroidery, and teaching you how to create nearly twenty pieces of unique bead embroidery jewelry to embellish your daily outfits. With this book, you will: ·Master the use of bead embroidery tools, understand the characteristics of different bead embroidery materials, and get started easily. ·Acquire rich hand sewing and hook needle techniques, including more than 20 techniques to lay a solid foundation for making beaded jewelry. ·Learn to embroider nearly 20 different kinds of flowers using a combination of bead embroidery techniques through illustrated tutorials, and make jewelry that incorporates Chinese aesthetics, including earrings, bracelets, necklaces, brooches, hairbands, and clutch bags, bringing the art of bead embroidery into your daily life. ·Experience the beauty of beaded flowers from a Chinese aesthetic perspective, to broaden your creativity and inspire you.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis guide is a must-have title for any hand stitcher''s library. It''s a beginner-friendly to advanced embroidery primer, with a stitch dictionary, instructions for successfully embroidering on footwear, and vibrant ideas for turning ordinary canvas shoes or espadrilles into personalized, eye-catching embroidered shoes. Includes introductory information on what you will need: shoes, tools, and thread followed by instructions for how to prepare the shoes you want to embroider, transfer the design, and stitch. Alternatively design and make your own custom espadrilles with the multi-sized pattern. Designs range from densely stitched mountain ranges to wispy florals and everything in between. Stitchers can also scan the QR codes for further video instructions.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis exquisite book, a follow-up to the hugely successful Kew Book of Embroidered Flowers, is written by needlework expert Trish Burr in association with The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. It features a starter project that introduces the reader to the most commonly used stitches, including long-and-short stitch, split stitch, satin stitch, bullions and French knots, then nine full sampler projects. The samplers feature a vast array of fauna and flora, including butterflies, bugs, birds, a rabbit and a hedgehog; lotuses, foxgloves, poppies, toadstools, and numerous wildflowers. The book explains all the stitches needed, and gives thorough advice on preparation and choosing fabrics and threads. All the projects are shown step-by-step, with an order of work diagram given where appropriate. All the reusable iron-on transfers needed are kept safely together with the book in an attractive hardback folder. The enclosed reusable iron-on transfer papers offer embroiderers a fast and accurate method of transferring the designs – the transfers simply need ironing on to fabric so that the reader can start embroidering straight away. The templates are also included at full size at the back of both editions of the book. This stunning yet practical book is a must-have for anyone interested in capturing the intricacy of nature in thread. Trade ReviewWhether you are a beginner or experienced embroiderer, this book will guide you through the various stages of creating beautiful samplers. It has certainly encouraged me to take up embroidery again after many years. Not only are there photos of the various stages to creating a beautiful piece of work, but also samplers to trace and there are also iron-on samplers included. What a treat for anyone who loves to embroider. -- Sally Bunyan * Customer Review *This book is absolutely stunning and bigger and much more extensive than I was expecting. I have a number of embroidery books now and although some are really good, I’ve never found one that had everything in that a beginner needs to know. I think my search for that is over as I’m yet to think of a single thing that Trish hasn’t covered in this amazing book. It really is a one-stop-shop and while it assumes you know nothing, it’s also not patronising or over detailed and so I’m sure it would suit any skill or experience level because there’s always something new you can learn. The book itself is a hardback folder design with an elastic strap closure which keeps the whole thing together or can be used as a make-shift bookmark to mark your place. On opening the folder the left sleeve contains the iron-on transfers. I’ve not yet had a chance to use the iron-on transfers but having used them in the previous title in this series, there’s a bit of an art to using them but they work really well if you follow the included instructions and don’t move the iron whilst pressing them as this causes blurring. There are detailed instructions in the book and on Trish’s website which explain two different methods to get a good transfer. These aren’t single-use and Trish says that they can be used 2 or 3 times each which is ideal when practising. The back of the paperback book is tucked into the sleeve on the right side of the folder so it can either remain where it is or be removed to use loose. The book contains absolutely heaps of photos, information, tutorials, tips and so much more. It covers everything from how to naturally dye fabric, what fabrics and threads to use, to step-by-step stitch instructions, how to mount, frame and display your pieces as well as loads of information about what to do and not to do and crucially, why. Often in techniques books it feels like a lot of rules and they’re not really explained and I’ve been left feeling silly wondering why it has to be done that specific way. Trish has explained a lot of these things as well as showing where things are preference rather than a better or worse way of doing something. It contains such a wealth of information, experience and knowledge, it’s just jam-packed and so well curated! The designs themselves are absolute works of art. They look so real and lifelike and while they look very overwhelming to attempt, the step-by-step instructions accompanied by thread lists, stitching details and loads of in progress colour photos of the work, mean that you can’t go wrong stitching along. The book contains 10 projects which doesn’t sound like a great deal but one of them actually consists of 11 different elements. The patterns include lots of different flowers and seed pods, a bee, some butterflies, an owl, a hedgehog, a rabbit, a wren and some insects so individually it’s actually more like 54 projects (plus 9 aspects of the stitch sampler to practice) when you break it down. They’re arranged into 3 different difficulty levels and they range from simpler projects to large, advanced samplers that are packed with detail and technique. It would be an amazing project to work your way through all of the tutorials and I’m sure it would massively improve your technique. Overall, I can’t speak highly enough of this book. If you only want one book on the subject, this is most definitely the one to get as it tells you everything you could possibly need to know, I love it! -- Lucy Fyles * Customer Review *This stunning book is for anyone interested in capturing nature in thread. The starter project introduces all commonly used stitches. Reusable iron-on transfers are in a hardback folder, along with full-size templates. * Machine Knitting Monthly, October 2023 *Table of ContentsForeword 6 Introduction 8 What is needle painting? 10 Tools and materials 10 Preparation 16 Mounting your embroidery in a wooden hoop 20 Stitch instructions 22 Outlines 32 Raised embroidery 34 Natural dyeing 36 Stitching the projects 40 Useful advice before you start 40 SIMPLE PROJECTS 42 Starter stitch sampler 44, Poppy sampler 54, Wildflower Sampler 60, Sacred lotus flower sampler 68, Breadseed poppy sampler 76 INTERMEDIATE PROJECTS 88 Barn owl sampler 90, Bunny sampler 104, Butterfly sampler 118 ADVANCED PROJECTS 134 Pelargonium sampler 136, Dragonfly sampler 152 The templates 168 Using iron-on transfers 176

Read more less

Book SynopsisFat, striped, sweet, or grumpy, this book offers 380 embroidery stitch patterns for cat lovers. Each of the 15 themed pattern sets offers a variety of designs that range from simple to complex and includes photos of the finished patterns, a stitch guide, and full-size templates. From kitty corners and borders to classic felines and festive holiday cats, Cat Lady Embroidery has a cat to embroider for every occasion. With an overview of tools and materials, instructions on getting started, a thread conversion chart, and a step-by-step review of the 15 basic embroidery stitches used, this book is perfect for embroiderers of all skill levels. Created by a group of amazingly talented artists, this collection contains a variety of different embroidery styles, so there are folk art–inspired cats, cartoon-style cats, trendy cat-themed patches, and realistic pet portrait-style motifs. There’s even a project inspiration gallery showcasing wonderful ways to use these motifs—maybe you’ll be inspired to embroider a cat peeking out from a shirt pocket or smiling up at you from a pair of slippers. Inspire your inner cat lady with these and more original designs: Breed-specific feline faces Stretching, sleeping, hiding, eating, and playing cats Mummy, vampire, and witch cats for Halloween Santa, reindeer, and angel cats for Christmas Sailor, baker, musician, and other dressed-up cats Cat alphabets in three different styles Cats with plants and flowers Fun designs and clear instructions make this book a must have for any cat-loving embroidery enthusiast's library.Trade Review“A whopping 380 embroidery patterns, exclusively for moggies. What’s not to love?” * Love Sewing *A ideal instruction manual for embroidery beginners, as well as anyone looking for fun and simple patterns, the original designs and clear instructions comprising Cat Lady Embroidery is a 'must have' for any embroidery enthusiasts library and is unreservedly recommended for personal and community library needlecraft instructional reference collections. * Midwest Book Review *

Read more less

Book SynopsisCelebrate the frosty Winter with this festive collection of 100% wool hand dyed felt, linen, yarn and fabric creations. In this book you will find Woodland felt brooches, sleeping felt Mouse tucked up in her peapod bed, felt Badger all dressed, ready for some frosty winter walks, decorative Rabbit with velvet ruffled collar and many more.

Read more less

Book SynopsisFrom quaint cottages and gardens, to coastal shorelines, city scapes, wintery scenes, and tropical islands, Cross Stitch Let's Travel takes you on an inspiring cross stitch adventure around the globe, allowing you to travel one stitch at a time from the comfort of your home. This collection features landscape themed designs in various sizes, from borders to small and medium sized designs in both traditional and modern styles, each presented as an easy to follow, full colour chart and key that would be suitable for any number for home crafting projects, from greeting cards, hoops, and pictures, or they can be combined into larger projects for home decoration and samplers, so there are options to suit every level of ability. This book would make a very useful addition to any sewers library. AUTHOR: Durene Jones is a cross stitch designer whose designs have been published in many popular cross stitch magazines. She is the author of Cross Stitch: Floral Summer Days. She lives in Durham, England.

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn this collection of 20 projects, bestselling cross stitch designer Emma Congdon gets inside the mind of a finickity feline to deliver a humorous selection of projects that will chime with cat owners everywhere. Easy-to-follow full-colour charts, step-by-step instructions on the techniques, and a gifty package make this ideal for beginners.

Read more less

Book SynopsisWelcome Baby is a book of irresistible patterns to help you celebrate your very special new arrival. The book is packed with exciting new projects in a variety of sizes which can be used individually to make charming gifts and cards, or combined to make delightful samplers, pictures, and cushions. The challenge will be deciding which design to work on first.

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn this book, you will find 25 different projects that you can make using the punch-needle technique, which has taken Instagram and Pinterest by storm. Transform traditional punch embroidery into modern accessories for yourself or to add colour to your home. The book explores the materials which can be used in punch embroidery, provides step-by-step instructions and allows you to create unique and inspiring pieces using templates. You will be amazed to see what you can do with a punch needle, some yarn and a piece of fabric! Projects include cushions, children’s bags, rugs and wall hangings.

Read more less

Book SynopsisEmbroidery artist Hisako Nishisu invites you to try her new collection of elegant cross stitch designs, inspired by the beauty and simplicity of wildflowers and grasses. There are over 30 stunning motifs to choose from, so whether you admire the lily of the valley or the violet, or prefer to stitch the Japanese silverleaf, there is sure to be a project that will catch your eye. After a gallery of beautifully photographed embroideries, a cross stitch overview is provided outlining the tools, materials and techniques needed for completing these charming samplers. This is followed by a clear, full-page chart for each design. Once your floral sampler is finished, frame it and hang it for a beautiful addition to any room, or use the designs to add pretty motifs to your linens, clothing and accessories.Trade ReviewI absolutely adore cross stitch and this book is a beauty. Over 30 botanical motifs, including Dandlion, Japanese primrose and many more are yours to use to decorate and adorn your home. The first part of the book showcase each design stitched and finished. There are techniques, stitch guide and things you will need to start your cross stitching journey and then there are the cross stitching charts. All the designs are stitched using DMC thread, but you can use your own choice of threads and colours. The designs in this book would make a stunning sampler, but can also be used to descorate hand towels, aprons and napkins. All the designs are both elegant and stunning. Happy cross stitching! -- Tracy Shephard * Postcard Reviews *This book has 32 botanical motifs of wildflowers and grasses in cross stitch. Not all plants are native to the UK but are no less beautiful. Hisako uses DMC embroidery linen, in off white. The embroidery floss is also DMC and worked over two threads. The first pages illustrate all the motifs with the corresponding page numbers of the fully worked piece. Five different stitches are used – cross, back, straight, ¾, and Holbein stitch. All stitches are illustrated in the middle of the book together with project instructions, tools, and materials. The charts follow, which are very clear and are easy to understand, with thread numbers and corresponding symbols. These pieces can be framed in their own right, but Hisako also shows how the embroideries can embellish household linen, clothing, and accessories. Hisako’s motto is ‘enjoyable embroidery, exciting creations.’ -- Sally Wilkinson * The SEW Region Magazine - Book Threads *A wonderful, must-have book! This is a most beautiful book - the projects are lovely and are very achievable. The flowers are gorgeous and very life-like. It made me want to start an embroidered wild flower immediately. Never has an embroidery book inspired me more! -- Judy Mary Healey * Amazon *Table of ContentsProjects Japanese Primrose 10 Japanese Thistle 29 Anemone Nikoensis 20 Japanese Wild Radish 25 Shepherd’s Purse 14 Annual Blue-Eyed Grass 2 1 Houttuynia 28 Violet 12 False Strawberry 24 Horsetail 13 Lily of the Valley 18 Veronica Persica 17 Narrow Leaved Vetch 16 Dandelion 11 Chinese Milk Vetch 22 Strawberry Saxifrage 26 Balloon Flower 40 Great Burnet 45 Pincushion Flower 41 Skunk Vine 42 Tatarian Aster 48 Spotted Bellflower 33 Japanese Snake Gourd 46 Wood Sorrel 30 Japanese Silverleaf 49 Chinese Plantain 34 Trifolium Repens 37 False Bindweed 36 Fringed Pink 38 Lady’s Tresses 32 Day Flower 44 Jumpseed 50 Inspiration Gallery 52 Project Instructions 59

Read more less

Book SynopsisCrewelwork has a long history but this book brings the technique right up to date. It mixes contemporary styles with older traditions to give an exciting twist on this enduring and beautiful style of embroidery. Becky Quine, a tutor of the Royal School of Needlework, clearly explains each step to making a piece, from early planning to stitching and finally to presentation. She encourages new ideas and a fresh, creative look at this popular and timeless technique. Advice on design is given along with working with colour and how to plan and stitch a piece of embroidery. This new book includes a guide to framing up and transferring a desing onto fabric. There are step-by-step sequences to over forty different stitches ranging from filling to outlining stitches, and from accent stitches to new creative ideas.Trade ReviewWhen I first saw the book, it reminded me that I had not done any Crewelwork for a very long time. As with most books I had a quick flick through and a phrase caught my eye, 'so it is always good to buy the best quality material and equipment that you can afford' - that was it, I was hooked. What a clear well laid out book, with so much information, well put and easy to understand. -- Anne Beckingham * SEW Region Magazine *

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis compact compendium of 20 cross-stitch charts uses a limited and identical palette of threads for each project. There are 20 circular designs in the book, and each of the patterns is accompanied by a full-colour and symbol chart for 14-count Aida or 28-count evenweave linen. Each design concentrates on a flower or a floral group that captures the very essence of the shapes and colours of the plant. The designs include seasonal wreaths, vases and jugs brimming with colour, gardens with lovely cottages and birds, flowers in a landscape, and single beautiful blooms. Each project re-creates a little bit of nature. AUTHOR: Lesley Teare is a leading textile designer and needlecraft designer and the author of several books on cross-stitch designs, including Fantasy Cross Stitch and Oriental Cross Stitch. Many of her designs appear regularly in top needlework magazines.

Read more less

Book SynopsisEnables all embroidery fans to "say" almost anything and convey emotions with thread!Trade ReviewMany books deal with stitch types in a bland similar manner. Brandeis here incorporates suggestions within this book, such as how to use text in a thread way….merging handwriting with expression…in stitch! -Ailish Henderson, Mr. XStitch Magazine “Brandeis takes us on a journey into the expressive nature of stitch . . . reveals how to manipulate stitches much like an artist might a pencil or paintbrush.” --Embroidery Magazine

Read more less

Book SynopsisEnjoy the tranquillity of slow stitching for luxurious seams and lavish embellishments. This step-by-step visual guide to 149 embroidery stitches, motifs, and extras uses simple colour theory for spectacular results! Robust colour charts take the guesswork out of choosing thread, buttons, and trims. Stitch classic seam treatments and stunning standalone designs as you go beyond the basics to learn what embroidery can do for you. 'One for the keeper shelf.' www.myshelf.comTrade ReviewThis is an unusual and rather charming book. It describes itself as a Visual Resource of Colour& Design. It takes readers through the basics of fabrics, stabilizers and embellishments, all colourfully depicted with well-illustrated examples. Colour theory is covered with the inclusion of a colour board of fabric, threads and beads explaining hues, tints, shades and values. Design and construction are also covered - the book has a ‘vintage’ feel and this is very evident in this section. Design basics are well explained but bigger pics would have been better here – as in other parts of the book – although larger versions are shown elsewhere. A very good idea is the Colourful Creations section where an embroidery is shown together with a chart showing the components and colours. Many techniques are explained and there is a huge section on stitches and how to form them. This book has an old-fashioned approach to colour and stitch that works well although I think that rather too much has been crammed into it to do justice to the delightful work. * Workshop on the web *March 17 For a traditional approach of slow stitching to create luxurious seams and lavish embellishments, look no further. This title is a spectacular encyclopedia of embroidery, sharing valuable techniques passed down through the generations from mother to daughter. A highlight is the visual guide section , with labelled smaples of all 149 stitches and where to find instructions - you'll wonder how you ever worked without it. Buy this book to learn what embroidery can do for you! * Sew *The photograph on the front of this book definitely possesses the “wow” factor, and invites the reader to delve into a colorful world of enjoyable stitching pleasure. Perhaps a better name for it could be “The Crazy Patchwork Book” as this is what the book is mostly about; using the 149 stitches and ideas to decorate scraps of fabric sewn together. This is not exactly a primer, as there are no step-by-step projects in here but that is not the aim of the book. Instead you are given the tools to create your own masterpiece, by which I mean stitch diagrams, lots of examples and information about how the finished pieces have been made. The book starts off with a handy chart showing all the stitches arranged in groups. These include not only the usual freestyle stitches but also ribbon embroidery, using beads and buttons plus various ways off adding decorated trims. The instructions for these are all at the back, shown as photographs and drawn diagrams. There is a short section on what materials and tools you need, some basic color theory, help on choosing a palette and how to lay out a rough sketch of what you are going to do. Following on are chapters on getting started and ideas on how to use the stitches, plan a simple project and more. All this is illustrated with a wealth of finished examples, and the rest of the book follows suit with lots of ideas on design, color and form. Total beginners might find it all a bit daunting but this is more a book aimed at the improver and up; the stitcher who wants more than transfers and tracings and enjoys a freer look at the hobby. I found it stimulating to see and read about the various pieces and was keen to learn a few more stitches and get started. This is a great way of using up oddments of fabric, yarn, embellishments and even found objects to make something new and exciting. One for the keeper shelf. * myshelf.com *A superb reference of 149 embroidery stitches for all types of surface decoration. This comprehensive guide includes materials, colour, design, creations, applications, the reference stitch guide, basics and resources. It is a visual guide to stitch. It is illustrated throughout with numerous examples of fine embroidery that show what can be achieved. I love the white on white piece. The stitch guide has clear illustrations showing how to make each stitch. Colourful, practical and inspiring. * YarnsandFabrics.co.uk *Table of ContentsVisual Guide 1. A Stitch Beyond Time 2. All The Right Stuff 3. Color Theory 101 4. Designing A Project 5. Flying Needles 6. Colorful Creations 7. Embroider, Embellish And Explore 8. Embroidery and Embellishment Stitch Reference Guide 9. The Basics 10. Resources 11. About the Author

Read more less

Book SynopsisInspired by the great diversity of Iznik and Delft pottery, this book brings to you a selection of bright, modern designs. The patterns in this book are varied in both their size and complexity, from small designs for tags, pincushions, and cards to more involved designs for pictures and other display items. Many are simple, quick to stitch and usable in multiple ways. An individual small design could be repeated to form a band for a table cloth, curtain, or towel edge--or tiled to produce a larger pattern for a cushion or sampler style design--making it a suitable book for both new and experienced stitchers to enjoy.

Read more less

Book SynopsisDiscover the beautiful Japanese pattern darning technique kogin and how it can be used to create stunning stitched and quilted projects. Kogin is a variation of the popular Japanese embroidery technique sashiko and is rapidly becoming as popular as its 'big sister'.Table of ContentsIntroduction Tools and Materials Basic Techniques Projects Greetings Cards Coaster Collection Place Mat Cushion Cover Small Purses Mini Tote Bag Wall Hanging Table Runner Drawstring Bags Phone Case Buttons, Brooches and Bobbles Framed Pictures Pattern Library Motifs Small Continuous Patterns Motif Arrangements Diagonal Borders and Frames Horizontal Borders Nanbu Hishizashi Motifs Large Patterns Bibliography Suppliers About the Author Acknowledgements Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisOriginally a follow-up to the outstandingly successful Blankets and Throws, the newly reformatted Cosy Throws & Blankets (previously published as More Blankets and Throws) has over 100 different blanket squares that can be knitted up to create a dozen unique blankets or throws in a variety of styles. More gorgeous blanket squares from bestseller Debbie Abrahams – there’s something for every knitter in this book. In this new book, Debbie Abrahams offers 100 unique blanket squares that can be combined to create a dozen stunning blankets or throws. Full instructions are given for each square, including expert advice on how to knit with several colours and how to personalize them using beads and other embellishments. Clear, step-by-step instructions show you how to piece the squares together to create each blanket, and close-up photos and clear charts mean you can’t go wrong. Follow the patterns given or have fun and create your own designs using the squares. Practise a range of knitting techniques, from intarsia through to textured stitches, and create squares using clean, matt cottons and soft, hairy winter yarns. Be inspired by these beautiful projects from beginners’ basics to advanced challenges. From a colourful circus-inspired afghan to a sea design in aqua shades, from a sophisticated blanket in mineral tones to a bright fruity rug, there's a design for every taste. Other titles in this series include Blankets & Throws to Knit (9781843404712), 25 Cushions to Knit (9781843405092) and Zoë Mellor's 50 Baby Bootees to Knit (9781843405078).Trade Review Praise for Cosy Throws & Blankets: ‘Beautifully illustrated with really helpful and clear step-by-step instructions … this is a perfect book for busy people looking to relax with a project that is achievable and so satisfying to create. Creating the little squares is so much fun because as well as following the patterns you can also create your own designs. We absolutely loved this delightful book. Highly recommended!’ – Escape Learn and Create Blog ‘I'm currently trying desperately to choose between all the gorgeous patterns in this book.’ – Bishops Stortford Independent

Read more less

Book SynopsisDiscover 26 stunning, fully colored cross-stitch patterns at your fingertips! This collection of charted designs offers exquisite florals like buttercups, pansies, and spring flowers. With the Pocketbook Crafts series, crafters can now enjoy their projects on the go, with instructions in a portable size guide featuring space for checklists and notes ? perfect for infusing floral charm wherever they wander.

Read more less

Book SynopsisGet ready to take your needlepoint to the next level and gain the confidence to start making bold stitching choices!A book of decorative stitches is like a candy store for needlepointers but sometimes the choice can be overwhelming. In Next-Level Needlepoint, bestselling author and popular designer Emma Homent walks you through over 100 stitches designed to build your skills and offers expert advice on where best to use them.? Features 100 stitches to create texture, movement, and scenic elements in your needlepoint projects.? Includes full-colour photographs and easy-to-follow diagrams for every stitch, no matter your ability level.? Includes 10 fun project ideas to show off your newly-learned stitches, plus full guidance on how to start and finish a project perfectly.This book builds on Emma?s bestselling Needlepoint: A Modern Stitch Directory, taking your needlepoint skills up a gear. With her handy step-by-step guides packed full of how-to illustrations and photos you?ll find it easy to succeed with every stitch.

Read more less

Book SynopsisHow to Embroider Almost Everything is an inspiring, fun, and sophisticated collection of 500+ stitch motifs from embroidery designer Wendi Gratz that offers a fresh new take on embroidery. Get a detailed checklist of everything you’ll need to embark on your stitch journey: threads, needles, fabric, and more. Find step-by-step tutorials for essential stitches and other techniques for creating the motifs, plus answers to common questions and invaluable tips and tricks. Explore an amazing 500+ modern motifs for almost everything, including people and pets, trees and flowers, everyday objects, food, home, and more. Either re-create the motifs exactly as shown using the accompanying templates and stitch guides, or give them your own creative spin by changing details and colors to suit your own style. How to Embroider Almost Everything helps you take your first steps to embroidering to your heart’s content and creating beautiful drawings with needle and thread! Each book in the Almost Everything series offers readers a fun, comprehensive, and charmingly illustrated visual directory of ideas to inspire skill building in their creative endeavors.Trade Review"Embroidery has been around for ages, and there are encyclopedias full of complicated stitches, but when it comes down to it, all you really need are lines, dots, and teardrops.With just a few basic stitches (you'll learn them all in this book), you can stitch anything you can imagine. In this book you'll find about 500 designs t get you started -- everything from alligators, bicycles, and corn on the cob through washing machines, yucca plants, and zebras." * Sew News *Table of ContentsAcknowledgments 3 Introduction 7 Getting Started FABRIC, THREAD, HOOPS, AND NEEDLES 8 Fabric 8 Thread 8 Embroidery Hoops 9 Needles 9 PATTERN TRANSFER SUPPLIES & METHODS 10 Pattern Transfer Supplies 10 How to Use Pencils and Erasable Pens 10 How to Use Pattern Transfer Stabilizer 11 WORKING WITH ALL TYPES OF FABRICS 12 Smooth, No-stretch Fabrics 12 Very Light or Thin Fabrics 12 Dark, Thick, Bumpy, Fuzzy, and Fluffy Fabrics 13 Stretchy Fabrics 13 STARTING & ENDING YOUR STITCHING 14 Starting Stitching 14 Ending Stitching 14 FINISHING YOUR STITCHING 15 THE BASIC STITCHES 16 Straight Stitch 16 Backstitch 18 Chain Stitch or Lazy Daisy 20 French Knot 22 Satin Stitch 24 GUIDE TO READING THE PATTERNS 25 Embroidery Stitch Patterns for Everything PLANTS Trendy Trees 26 Lovely Leaves 28 Flower Power 30 Favorite Houseplants 32 Selection of Succulents 34 ANIMALS Sweet Kitties 36 Devoted Dogs 38 Popular Pets 40 Creepy Crawlies 42 Woodland Creatures 44 Aquarium Swimmers 46 Under the Sea 48 Feathered Friends 50 Wise Owls 52 Barnyard Buddies 54 On Safari 56 Dinosaur Hunt 58 PEOPLE Girls Squad 60 Boys Team 62 Ladies 64 Gentlemen 66 OUT AND ABOUT Off to the Beach 68 Down on the Farm 70 Home Sweet Home 72 City Living 74 On the Road 76 Things That Go 78 AROUND THE HOUSE School Supplies 80 Let’s Get Cooking 82 Sweet Treats 84 It’s 5 O’clock Somewhere 86 Laundry Day 88 Tool Shed 90 AT PLAY Classic Toys 92 Keys to the Kingdom 94 Fantasy Land 96 Space Race 98 Pirate Life 100 Monster Mash 102 CELEBRATE Birthday Bash 104 Love & Cheers 106 Baby News 108 WEATHER & SKIES Let It Snow 110 Sun, Moon & Stars 112 Stormy Weather 114 LETTERS & MORE Classic Alphabet 116 Numbers & Banners 118 Fancy Frames 120 Zodiac Signs 122 Paisley Power 124 Beautiful Borders 126 Resources 128 About the Author 128

Read more less

Book SynopsisApproximately 130 patterns reflect a modern sensibility, with motifs ranging from trendy to vintage and kitschy. All fit into a 6-inch or smaller embroidery hoop, so they're quick projects that can be finished in an evening or weekend.

Read more less

Book SynopsisNeedlework artist Juno combines botanical embroidery with spiritual self-care in 24 quirky designs!Trade Review“Delightful . . . Many of the pieces are richly detailed . . . embroiderers will be wowed by the impressive needlework.” -- Publishers Weekly

Read more less

Book SynopsisTeaches two beautiful Japanese sashiko styles not found in other books: kogin and hishizashi

Read more less

Book SynopsisLearn to make embroidery a way to treasure your life as you create three personal projects supported by the guidance, stories, and advice of 14 modern crafters. Modern society has put a premium on producing, and sometimes that hustle culture (Instagram likes! Etsy sales!) can drain some joy from crafting. This book helps embroidery fans abandon that notion and, instead, realize that life is about treasuring what''s important. Interviews with 14 creative stitchersfrom business owners to accomplished artistsmake readers feel embraced by community. Each artist shares photos of their creations, encouraging readers to incorporate empowering concepts into their stitching. Three step-by-step projects, personalized to the reader''s own preferences, teach how to: 1. use your threads to treasure and display your life's meaningful special objects. For instance, a special token of a favorite moment like

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisTake time out to be creative and de-stress with these colourful, fun embroidery projects from Hello! Hooray! Ranging from things you could complete in an afternoon to others that you can take your time over, enjoy every step of the making process as you focus on feeling good through being creative. The finished makes will bring colour and joy to your home, workspace and wardrobe. The projects in this book allow you to craft your creative time by selecting makes according to timescale. Choose one of the crafternoon makes' if you want that sense of joy at finishing something, a medium makes' project for the days where you have a little more time for crafting, or for something to really take your time over you could stitch one of the longer pick me up' projects. Each project includes step-by-step instructions, beautiful photos and inspirational ideas for how to make each project your own. So take time to be creative with this colourful, feel-good craft book!

Read more less

Book SynopsisYou don’t have to be a master embroiderer to create beautiful crazy-quilt seams! With 480 seam designs to inspire your creativity, you’ll learn to stitch with uniform spacing for a professional appearance. Line everything up perfectly with five pages of full-size stitch templates and dozens of step-by-step illustrations. Then dress up embroidered seams with sparkly beads, buttons, sequins, and silk ribbon embellishments for endless creative combinations!Trade ReviewYou've never seen seams like those before! In Kathy's read, you'll find 480 unique quilt seams for you to embroider and embellish to your heart's content, whether that's with vibrant sequins, antique beads or silk ribbons. * Sew Christmas *'Stunning Stitches for Crazy Quilts is one of those visually exciting books, but it is much, much more. It’s a practical guide to traditional crazy quilting, presented in a very organized, accessible way for beginners and beyond. The book is organized and direct. It’s easy to grasp the guiding concept behind Kathy’s method of building embellished seams for crazy quilting. It provides practically an infinite resource for seam embellishing, by combining and mixing and matching the different layouts, elements, and stitches offered in the book. If you’re a crazy quilter who’s always looking for seam ideas, or if you’re an aspiring crazy quilter who isn’t sure where to start with building decorative seams, the book will provide you with all kinds of ideas and inspiration, based on some very simple concepts. If you love stitch combinations, color, texture, and just fun explorations with your needle and thread, then the book is for you, too!' Read Mary Corbet's full review here. -- Mary Corbet * Needle 'n Thread *I just love embroidery and this book has over 400 stitch designs. Even a complete beginner would be able to sew the amazing stitches and along with the instructions, hints and tips, this is a book that definitely earns it's shelf space. The book is set in three sections: templates, stitch instructions and design illustrations. The abundance of colour is both amazing and inspiring. Advice on which needle to choose, and there are many.. embellishments to finish your design and much much more helps grow your embroidery know-how and enhance your skills. I especially loved the Stitch Template idea and I will be definitely make one. I have not come across this idea before and think it's a genius idea. -- Tracy Shephard * Postcard Reviews *Embellish the seams on your crazy quilt (or any other sewing project) with the ideas in this beautiful book. There are 480 seam designs to choose from and 36 stitch-template designs for getting the placement exactly right. If you are new to freestyle hand embroidery it doesn’t matter as not only are there clear diagrams for all the stitches used, there are only a few of the simpler ones to learn. Part of the appeal of this book is not merely that it contains page after page of stunning seam designs, but that none is too difficult to create even for novice embroiderers. Any book with “quilt” on the front page is going to be aimed primarily at quilters, a craft that mostly makes use of a sewing machine and/or ordinary hand sewing stitches. Crazy quilting is rather different, and a brief history of it is given along with a list of what you will need. The stitches are the usual basic hand embroidery staples such as blanket stitch, herringbone, bullion knots, feather stitch etc plus several variations to make a seam look prettier. The large coloured diagrams are easy to follow and include how to do several stitches using ribbon and how to make several small repeat designs. These include flowers, insects and “prongs” as well as how to add beads and buttons. At the front is also a short section on how to use the book including building layered seams and using templates. There are 36 of these ready to scan/photocopy/trace onto vellum and use to get your seams perfectly spaced. The rest of the book contains first a gallery of photographs of the seams, and then the patterns. These are organized by the base seam stitch and are drawn in several colours for ease of use. Under the diagram is a list of the stitches and any other information. For example, the template number is given first, followed by the stitches used first in thread, then in ribbon (if applicable) and lastly if there are any “beads and baubles” to add. The finished result looks gorgeous, and the cover shows several of them to whet your appetite. A lovely and very user-friendly book that will appeal to quilters, hand embroiderers and anybody else who wants to embellish something. If you cannot find a good range of embroidery and quilting materials locally try http://www.searchpress.com for a list of suppliers. -- Rachel A Hyde * MyShelf.com *

Read more less

Book SynopsisOver two hundred and twenty five embroidery designs from best-selling author Brian Haggard are now available as iron-on transfers, to make applying and using his designs a breeze. Transfer and embroider beautiful designs from his popular books Embroidered Memories and Crazy-Quilted Memories. From florals and banners to birds and bees, this book has elegant images of all kinds (and in all sizes, too!). All projects, patterns and instructions include both metric and standard imperial measurements.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA pocket-sized book of iron-on transfers with 50 whimsical illustrations of pets lounging on furniture from well-known designer Mara Penny. An adorable assortment of dogs, cats, couches and more – just iron-on!

Read more less

Book SynopsisKogin-zashi is an iconic form of sashiko that is both functional and breathtakingly beautiful. Detailed photography and step-by-step visual instructions guide readers to create stunning projects using Kogin-zashi stitching.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA compact guide to beaded embroidery stitching.

Read more less

Book SynopsisInvite light, warmth, and the freshness of spring into your home in time for Easter! Designer Thea Rytter, a fan favorite for her beautifully subtle color palettes and undeniable creativity, is back with a brand-new selection of decorations, ornaments, and more—including both well-known Easter classics such as colorful eggs and fluffy hares, and fun, festive springtime designs for flowers, feathers, and a sweet, soft friend or two. Welcome the season in style, with cozy, charming, characteristically Norwegian Easter knits. - Start small and work your way up: quick single-color patterns keep it simple for beginners, and wrapped-yarn projects like birds and feathers are perfect for kids - Once you've mastered the basic patterns for eggs, flowers, and miniature birds—shake things up with color changes, beads, embroidery, and more! - Step-by-step instructions, full-color photographs, and additional guidance for techniques like short-row shaping, to guide knitters who've never tackled them before.

Read more less

Book SynopsisKay Dennis is passionate about Stumpwork. This intricate, raised and padded embroidery has its origins in the 17th century, and is enjoying a revival amongst embroiderers and lacemakers. It is wonderfully versatile and will appeal both to the novice and needleworker. Using a mix of flat, padded, wired and free-standing elements, it employs a wide range of embroidery techniques. This comprehensive and colourful book covers both basic and needle lace techniques – sections on each contain a series of elaborate step-by-step demonstrations showing how to work individual techniques, followed by a project combining all the methods. Kay takes inspiration from a variety of sources and her designs include animals, flowers, fruits and insects – popular motifs in the 17th century. She also creates contemporary designs and there are advanced projects on landscape and figurative work. A gallery of Kay's work is included to inspire the reader.Trade ReviewSearch Press is celebrating 50 years in print and has reissued selected titles from their back list. Each of these is considered a classic of its kind, and this book, Stumpwork for Beginners from 2001, has been selected for republication. Stumpwork is often considered one of the more advanced forms of embroidery and was the culmination of years of learning other styles and working samplers for young ladies in the 16th and 17th centuries. This padded, raised form of embroidery was mounted onto caskets and cabinets and gets its name from the carved pieces of wood used as bases for faces and other 3D features. This book shows the beginner what to buy and which stitches you need to make a start. A wide range of threads can be used and most if not all the other tools and materials are common to other styles of needlework. You don’t need any wood carving skills either, just toy filling to pad out shapes you want to raise. Some books on stumpwork emulate the style associated with the original pieces but this book has updated it and taken inspiration largely from nature. There are no chapters concerned with learning stitch by stitch, but you jump right in with a sampler of several elements which teaches you the basics. Make and prepare padding, learn stitches such as turkey knot and spider’s web and then progress to needlelace. Find out how to make heads and hands, and then bring it all together in a picture of a gardener tending a garden full of fruit and flowers. The elements and pictures include toadstools, a seaside scene, fish in the seaweed, poppy heads, topiary with a polymer clay pot and a butterfly. All are ideal for mounting on boxes of your own and it is easy to see why this book was selected for classic status: it helps to explode the myth that stumpwork is a mysterious, complex style suited only for very advanced embroiderers. The author claims that even a total beginner to all forms of embroidery could tackle these projects and although it is possible I think that the book is more aimed at those who are au fait with some other needlework styles and want to try something different. If you cannot find a good range of embroidery and needlecraft materials locally try http://www.searchpress.com for a list of suppliers. -- Rachel Hyde * myshelf.com *Table of ContentsIntroduction History Materials Getting started EMBROIDERY TECHNIQUES Flowing flowers Acorns Poppy Seed Heads Topiary Butterfly NEEDLELACE TECHNIQUES Leaf Flower Seaweed and Fish Orange Branch Mushrooms Foxgloves SCENES AND FIGURES Birds and Beach Heads and Hands The Gardener PATTERNS INDEX

Read more less

Book SynopsisCrewelwork embroidery traditionally features bold striking designs, rich vivid colours and thick textured woollen thread, and these designs are certainly no different. Crewel Inspirations highlights the very best crewelwork has to offer in both design and technique. Featuring talented embroidery designers Hazel Blomkamp, Di Kirchner, Phillipa Turnbull, Margaret Light and Susan Casson, this special collection, including cushions, a footstool, a mandala, a framed picture and a jewellery roll, have been curated into one publication. With 8 stunning crewelwork projects to make, there are clear step-by-step instructions, pullout patterns, a stitch guide and all the information you need to create them. Discover the origins, stitches, techniques and designs that are uniquely crewelwork, and learn how to make your own beautiful works of art.Trade ReviewIf you're a fan of crewelwork, look no further. This is a collection of 8 beautiful projects curated from the pages of Inspirations magazine. Featuring designs from some of the world's most talented embroiderers, it gives you the patterns, instructions, images and insight to stitch for yourself. * Stitch *Table of Contents2 Introduction 4 Contents 6 Crewelwork History 8 The Crewelwork Projects 10 Fantasia 22 In Good Time 28 Modern Crewel 38 Mandala Musings 50 Abundant Riches 62 Autumn Gold 70 Masterpiece 84 Garden of Earthly Delights 102 Stitch Guide

Read more less

Book SynopsisExquisitely detailed and worked in silk floss thread with tiny size 12 needles, Victoria Matthewson's embroideries are a masterclass in thread painting, and shine with vibrant colour and life. Many people think of bees as being the only pollinators but, in fact, a wide variety of insects help with the pollination of plants, including butterflies, moths, wasps and beetles – all of which make wonderful subjects for embroidery. Starting with key stitches and techniques, this inspiring and practical book contains nine step-by-step embroidery projects. Choose from nine key plant and pollinator combinations including the dogrose and greenbottle fly, ox-eye daisy and hoverfly, and fennel and seven-spot ladybird. Each stunning project contains fascinating entomological insights about each pollinator and its plant, verified by the experts at the charity Buglife. With a foreword written by TV naturalist Iolo Williams, and a comprehensive design and stitch guide, this gorgeous and informative book will inspire you to observe and capture the beauty of these vital ecosystems. The book will suit people with some previous embroidery knowledge, or ambitious beginners. Trade ReviewIt has been said that if insects were to disappear overnight, the world's eco-system would collapse. Like them or not, the world needs bugs. In particular, the pollinators, on which depends every third mouthful of food we eat. it was learning about the delicate web of inter-dependence that weaves between insect and plant that prompted Victoria Matthewson's new book, Needlepainted Plants and Pollinators. Showcasing her exquisite needlepainting, it also informs us about the importance of pollinating insects, and encourages us to take a closer look at them. [...] With a foreword written by TV naturalist Iolo Williams, and a comprehensive stitch guide, this gorgeous and informative hardback book will inspire people with some previous experience of embroidery, as well as ambitious beginners. -- The Stitcher's Journal * The Stitchers Journal, Issue No. 11 *This is one of the books I’ve been Absolutely Dying to get to, to let you know about! Now that the release date is getting very close, I’m really excited to write a review of it. The book is Needlepainted Plants and Pollinators: An Insect Lover’s Guide to Silk Shading Embroidery by Victoria Matthewson. It is a lovely book from Search Press, and it falls into a very interesting category. It’s pretty much a nature journal in thread, combined with instruction and projects. I knew it was going to be good. I follow Victoria’s Instagram feed and really enjoy seeing her work. So, yep. I was excited to get an advanced copy and see the book in person! Unlike many needlework books, Needlepainted Plants and Pollinators is a hardbound book, which gives it a “coffee table book” feel – and for good reason. Whether interested in embroidery or not, this is the type of book that anyone can pick up and connect to. After all, we all live on a beautiful planet filled with growing things and curious creatures. Whether we “see” them is another question – but we know they are there. Opening the pages of the book is rather magical – there’s almost a Wow! on every page. I love little touches like this, by the way. This is just a lone embroidered bee in the corner of the end sheet when you first open the book. The inside cover page hints at the delights to come. This is the type of book that is very difficult not to photograph page by page, to show you all of it. But if I did that, you wouldn’t have that joy of surprise when your own copy arrives. So I will curtail my inclinations! The book is broken down into two parts: the first half – which is background information – and the second half – which is filled with projects. In the first part of the book, we learn about the author, a bit about nature study, the basics of getting started with embroidering from natural subjects, a bit about materials and threads, and the rudiments of needlepainting. My favorite section in the first part of the book is probably the discussion on inspiration. This is where we learn that not everything that we see in nature may translate easily into an embroidery design. She discusses how to choose the right type of subject for needlepainting, and her advice is excellent. If you have toyed with the idea of needlepainting your favorite aspects of the natural world from your own drawings or photos, but you didn’t know where to start, you’ll appreciate the information here. Of course, there’s thread talk. I love thread talk. The needlepainting instruction walks through different exercises in stitching various types of shapes and elements found in nature – leaves, berries, petals, and the like – so that we understand how needlepainting is meant to flow when working a natural subject. Oh, I almost forgot! You’ll find great information and instruction not only on preparing your project to stitch, but also on how to finish it for display in different ways. I do appreciate good finishing instructions in an embroidery book! Then there are the projects. There are nine. They range from plants to pollinators, as the title promises. You’ll find a some really fabulous close-ups of the embroidery in this book, too, as you go through it. I like close-ups. They give us a good idea of stitch direction, order of stitching, and so forth. With each project, there’s a design template (in the back of the book), a materials list, and instructions on stitching it. We get to see the step-by-step development of the parts of the projects, too, which is very helpful. It’s hard to pick a favorite project in the book, but I think this one might be it for me. I like the way this is photographed here, too. And I love that solid center of French knot glory! Of course there’s a ladybug! In a Nutshell Well, what’s not to like? If you love the idea of needlepainting natural subjects in realistic ways, I think you’ll really love this book. There’s much to learn from it, and it’s a good guide in observation and in building “nature journaling” skills with needle and thread. If you are just fascinated by beautiful embroidery, if you like to browse through embroidery books for inspiration – even if you don’t intend to stitch these particular subjects – it’s a lovely book and it’s got good instruction in it that applies to needlepainting in general, that can be applied to stylized embroidery designs as well. If you like nature journaling, photography, and the like, it’s a different approach that will add variety and beauty to your library. There’s nothing I don’t like about this book. All my little pleasure molecules in my brain start buzzing when I open it. It makes me happy. -- Mary Corbet * Mary Corbet's Needle 'n' Thread *I was ecstatic when Needlepainted Plants and Pollinators was finally published. The first section of the book goes into Victoria’s inspiration, why insects? She talks about the importance of pollinators and how to encourage them into your garden. I love that! She then goes on to talk about the materials she uses, from backing fabric to ground fabric, needles, pins, scissors, etc. Victoria also explains why to use a stand, use stretcher bars or hoops and how to mount up properly. There’s a section showing the correct way to mount a piece, once finished, and perfect its presentation. In my favourite section of the book Victoria talks about how to find inspiration, working from a photo, choosing a design, and then planning the design. She mentions stitch direction, shading guidelines, order of stitching, light direction, and discusses colour. All very important steps. Victoria explains how she chooses threads and both she and I have a serious love of DeVere Yarns silk threads. Then there’s a section showing the basics of long and short stitch. How to work directional long and short and information about parking your threads properly. Again, super important. She goes into a bit more detail on other stitches, including threading a needle, a waste knots, finishing threads, split, satin, French knots, seed, and lazy daisy stitches. A section that talks about shading a berry or spherical shape, and shading leaves properly. Then there is a tonne of projects. My personal favourite is either the Dog Rose and Greenbottle Fly, the Fennel and Seven-Spot Ladybird, or the Blackthorn and Buff-Tailed Bumblebee. I love stitching bees, and Victoria’s are beyond perfect! The last part of the book is almost like a portfolio of her past works, with beautiful descriptions of each piece. I love that the templates for working each of the many projects are included. I can’t recommend this book enough. It’s gorgeous, and so well written. Whether you’re starting out in your stitching career, or you’re a professional, I guarantee there’s something in this book for you. It’s a work of art. -- Jessica Devin * Embroidery Artist *This is a beautifully printed book with some lovely photographs of insects. Why insects? As Victoria Matthewson says - "Our insect pollinators are in trouble. At the time of writing more than 40% are in decline." In the first part of the book, Victoria Matthewson takes us through the usual paraphernalia of equipment - setting up, design, colour etc. But miss this at your peril, for it is full of excellent tips. These include how to design taking into consideration the direction of the light. How to use light and shade to give a three-dimensional effect and "needle parking!" (Keeping the needle threaded when not in use and anchored in the edge of the work, out of the way) Then there are the projects! Every one is complete with a full set of instructions with explicit photographs and drawings. They are arranged to represent the main groups of pollinators. Each insect depicted is shown alongside the plant that it is attracted to. The projects have a template to facilitate the transfer of the design. This book might be a little difficult for the novice to understand without guidance but I would recommend it for an embroiderer with some experience of needlepainting. -- Lizie Painter * Book Threads *Victoria does so much than deliver a stunning guide to painting with thread. She gives her stitched subjects context. She makes seemingly little creatures important. She encourages readers to take a moment, to reflect on the insect or plant, and to consider the incredible role they play in our fragile eco-system. This raised awareness can only make for a richer, more connected embroidery experience. * Stitch Magazine *Table of ContentsContents 5, Introduction 6, Foreword 8, All about pollinators 10, Materials and tools 12, Techniques 20, Stitch gallery 26, Small stitched elements 34, Inspiration 38, Choosing colours 40, Order of work 42 The Projects 44 Dogrose and greenbottle fly 46, Lords and Ladies and owl midge 56, Ox-eye daisy and hoverfly 64, Fennel and seven-spot ladybird 72, Meadow buttercup and thick-legged flower beetle 80, Bramble and gatekeeper butterfly 88, Common knapweed and six-spot burnet moth 96, Blackthorn and buff-tailed bumblebee 106, Gooseberry and common wasp 114 Templates 122

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Royal School of Needlework teaches hand embroidery to the highest standard, developing techniques in new and innovative ways. Written by RSN apprentice, and now tutor, Jacqui McDonald, this book contains an extensive stitch guide, as well as guidance on the materials and equipment you need; how to design your own crewelwork embroidery; framing up; and positioning and transferring your design. Each stitch is clearly illustrated with step-by-step photography, along with expert instruction on how to form the stitch and use it in your needlework. With an introduction to the RSN and a brief history of crewelwork, together with numerous traditional and contemporary examples, this book provides an essential guide, for the dedicated stitcher, to this classic form of embroidery.Trade ReviewIt's a great read and that the details on how to do the stitches makes them easy-to-follow. -- Joanne Udall * Amazon Customer Review *Crewelwork is associated particularly with the Stuart period, but is still popular today and a beautiful way of working with 2-ply woollen thread. The Royal School of Needlework is based in Hampton Court Palace, England and has taught embroidery of all types to the highest standard since its foundation in 1872. If you have the smaller format edition published in 2010 then you already own this book; this is a new larger edition. You can use this book as a brand-new embroiderer as it shows you in some detail how to prepare the frame and cloth and how to work the stitches. There are no projects in here however, as it is a guide that culminates in the stitcher being able to design their own. If this is not you, buying a different book on the subject might be wise, but I was impressed with the clear staged photographs and user-friendly instructions. The book opens with the usual brief history before informing the reader what they need to buy and imparting some useful tips on basic design. Transferring the design is done the traditional way by pricking and pouncing; the pounce can be made at home by grinding up cuttlefish bones or charcoal in a pestle and mortar (thankfully it can also be bought ready-made). Most of the book contains the stitches, which are shown in very clear detail laid out in groups with some useful tips. The advantage of the larger size of this new edition is a greater clarity of fine detail; you can see every thread which is a help when mastering stitches or perusing finished examples. One particularly useful feature of this book is the order of working, so you can build up your design the right way and make it look its best. Instead of projects there are five typical examples of crewel designs (including a contemporary piece) with helpful notes about stitches and the reasons why these particular subjects were popular with this style. I found this to be a very useful book for anybody who wants to learn how to do this type of embroidery. -- Rachel A Hyde * myshelf.com *I do quite a bit of embroidery which I enjoy and have done a little crewel work which is my favourite type of sewing. I particularly liked that this book because, not only does it describe each type of stitch with beautiful photos, it also explains what basic materials you will need, how to set up a frame and how to transfer your design onto the fabric. A comprehensive and interesting book, I’m so glad I have this to refer to at any time when I am sewing. I’ve also discovered a new stitch I hadn’t used before. Fabulous book. -- Sally Mitton * Amazon Customer Review *This was a great help in getting me back into crewel work, which I have not done in 20 years. I found the instructions easy to follow and the illustrations helped a lot. I found the book very inspiring and has given me lots of ideas for projects to work on. -- Lesley Stevens * Amazon Customer Review *Lovely clear photos and written instructions throughout the book. A clear guide from selecting materials, framing and transferring the pattern, which stitch to use and how to build and complete a design. I have always wanted to try crewelwork and this is the book to help me. -- Sheila Fraser * Customer Review *This is a really good book for both beginners like me and experienced embroiderers. Because it is a RSN book you can be sure that the information is sound and the techniques are proper. The book gives both historical background and ideas for more contemporary work. The technical information is given in a clear and easy to understand but light- hearted way and backed up by why the processes are done that way. Plenty of tips to improve your work are given. Possibly the best aspect of the book is the photography. Close-ups of stitches and finished works are great! I definitely recommend this book. -- Gina Bush * Amazon Customer Review *Table of ContentsThe Royal School of Needlework 6 Introduction 8 The history of crewelwork 10 Materials and equipment 12 Design and using colour 18 Framing up 24 Positioning the design 28 Transferring the design 29 Starting to stitch 30 STITCHES 32 Essential stitches 34 Filling stitches 36 Outline stitches 56 Surface stitches 70 Building up your design 84 Index 96

Read more less

Book SynopsisHow to Cross Stitch is the perfect starting point for all those wanting to learn this rewarding and accessible craft. This simple-to-follow project-based book takes you through the basic techniques of how to cross stitch. Each technique is clearly explained and accompanied by a stylish project to make, with clear step-by-step instructions. The straightforward explanations combined with desirable projects means that no matter how little cross- stitch experience you have to start with, you'll soon be impressing friends and family with your new-found practical skills.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis title is the third in the successful theme-based Stitched Textiles series. It contains a comprehensive techniques section, six beautiful step-by-step projects and galleries of inspirational pieces that are vibrant, contemporary, and beautifully executed. Very much aimed at the contemporary textile artist, this beautiful book is designed to inspire and encourage and contains all the information a beginner needs. Birds are an enduring theme in art and textile work and this book will appeal to any textile artist interested in exploring their design possibilities. It features a range of birds including much-loved garden blackbirds, characterful chickens, cute and curious puffins and cheeky seagulls. Fresh and innovative in its approach, it covers the design process itself, from inspiration to final design, and provides information on the materials used and step-by-step demonstrations of a whole range of techniques including dyeing, using dissolvable fabric, using found objects, piecing and stitching.Trade ReviewBirds are the theme of the latest title in this series, functioning as a muse for textile artist Sumner in colorful artworks created with fabric and thread. An impressive variety of painterly pictorial effects can be achieved using cloth, thread, and sometimes found materials. The bulk of this book is divided into three sections on capturing the character, depicting a scene, and telling a story. Each section contains two step-by-step projects that detail technical processes such as dyeing, using dissolvable fabric, piecing, machine sewing, and embroidery. VERDICT Borrowing heavily from crafts and applied art techniques, this guide presents a fresh method for making fine art that can be enjoyed by readers of all skill levels. * Library Journal, USA *May/June 2017 An inspiring and practical step-by-step guide to creating colourful, contemporary bird-themed stitched textiles. The title is the third in the successful theme-based Stitched Textiles series. It contains a comprehensive techniques section, six step-by-step projects and galleries of inspirational pieces that are vibrant, contemporary and beautiful executed. Birds are an enduring them in art and textile work and this book will appeal to any textile artist interested in exploring their design possibilities. The book is broken down into three chapters: Creating Character. Depicting a Scene and Telling a Story. Each chapter contains two step-by-step projects and a gallery of other inspiring vibrant pieces. The purpose of each chapter is to capture a different aspect of the characters of the birds we love to watch either in our gardens, as pets or in the wild. * Workbox *April 2017 The must-have third title from the hugely successful Stitched Textiles series inspires and encourages textile artists, containing all information a novice needs to bring majestic birds to life with needle and thread. Techniques range from dyeing and piecing to embroidery and working with dissovable fabrics which are accompanied by six step-by-step projects with expert advice, plus an inspirational gallery of vibrant and contemporary designs. * Sew *This book is full of lovely designs to produce lovely designs as great presents for bird loving friends - like works of art!! * Joanna Terry *An amazing book with clear descriptive photographs and instructions. Contains some beautiful projects and truly quite inspirational. I am currently attempting to reproduce "Blackbirds". * Claire Cleaver *What a glorious book this is. So many clear beautiful images. It is a feast for the eyes. Clearly written, so many useful hints and tips. Its a pleasure to read. Ideas and projects to follow, inspiration to keep you busy, and to keep dipping into. If birds and fabric and stitch are your thing, this is the book for you. * Judith Clarke *This is a beautifully illustrated book with thick glossy pages, the sort of book that makes a lovely gift for anyone into needlecraft. The book has six projects but its the inspiration from these projects that sets the book apart. Loads of gorgeous photos of the pictures/project that you could make and details of how to mount to a picture frame for instance or turn into a cushion. The book has five pages of templates of birds, boats and other related items to help bring your projects to life * Amanda Hayes *Issue 37 Rachel Sumner describes herself as an artist who uses textile techniques. She is also a self confessed hoarder of recycled materials. In this highly imaginative reference book she showcases the ways of capturing the essence of birds through the medium of stitch, using old pieces of fabric, recycled haberdashery items and found objects (nature-inspired postage stamps and tangled fishing thread). Incorporating techniques such as dyeing, working with disolvable fabric, applique and machine embroidery she explores designing, sketching, laying out, stitching scenes featuring puffins, seagulls, chickens, and blackbirds, in six different projects inspired by nature. Chapters focus on materials, equipment, designs, techniques, capturing character, depicting a scene and telling a story. Templates, photographs and simple instructions to help you along the way in this truly inspirational gallery of ideas. * Reloved *Search Press’ Stitched Textiles series focuses on contemporary textile artists’ work and features staged projects and techniques using a wide range of materials. This latest title shows how to depict birds through the medium of fabric and thread. This series is a good way of learning how to use a wide range of materials and methods including dyeing, appliqué, hand and machine embroidery, dissolvable fabrics and even found objects. If you have a stash of fabric scraps left over from other projects this book has many ways of using them up to make collage pictures. The bulk of this book is taken up with six projects but the first part focuses on what you need, an overview of techniques used and information about mounting, design and creating backgrounds. If you want to go into dyeing cloth and trying out shibori techniques the information here is not full enough for beginners but serves more to suggest another way of using fabrics. The projects themselves are a great way of learning to make pictures out of stitched cloth and you can choose from puffins, blackbirds, gulls (two projects depict these), chickens and an ark filled with birds. Each project features a series of captioned photographs including close ups of key areas. There are also galleries of other works by the author which briefly outline methods used and at the back all the templates are given at 50% size. I love the way you can make a whole picture out of scraps and most people who already use textiles in their crafts will have most if not all of the materials and tools already. A good addition to the series. * myshelf.com *I really didn't know you could create such amazing pictures with textiles. If you have never used textiles in this way before don't worry this book is going to take you through everything you need to know. You learn all about the equipment you will need. How to create your design and sketch out your ideas. If you struggle to create designs it's okay as the book takes you through using artworks as inspiration. The book then takes you through how you will be using the fabric and how to use the colours. You are then taught how to use the fabrics to build up a background, create a foreground, stitching, final touches and how to adapt your design. Types of fabric selection are discussed so that you can make the right decisions. The book even takes you through how to dye fabrics as well as using dissolvable fabric. The techniques you learn can be used to create any textile picture you want. You can either follow the designs in the book or create your own designs. You are then taken through a number of designs so that you can recreate them: Puffin, Chickens, Seagulls on a Boat, Blackbirds, Seagull on a Beach and Bird Ark. You also have galleries throughout of different designs that you can make. At the back of the book are the templates you will need to create the designs within the book. The book is inspiring and informative. http://www.crochetaddictuk.com/2016/09/stitched-textiles-birds-search-press.html. * Crochet Addict UK *This is a most inspirational book, beautifully illustrated and with clear instructions and interesting insights into how Rachel Sumner gets her ideas. I have long been an admirer of her work and have some of her cards but this book is just stunning. There are step by step guides on finding inspiration, building a background, using colour and everything you need to adapt your own ideas. There are techniques and stitches to use, even how to mount your work in different ways. The quality of the illustrations is excellent and the bird subjects beautifully represented. Not only is it a wonderful book to keep for yourself but also a brilliant present for anyone who likes textile work, I can't praise it enough, must get some fabric sorted now! * Sonia Hawes *This book is just full of gorgeous inspiration and great basic starter tips for anyone who would love to begin this beautiful art form. It has plenty to attract both a beginner and a more experienced artist and is full of great photos to inspire you. I am definitely going to start today by building up a collection of suitable materials in line with my chosen colour scheme! * Gill Phipps *This book is full of the most gorgeous birds to stitch backed up with useful tips and techniques to try. Six original step-by-step projects complete with templates and suggestions for fabrics to use with helpful advice on how to build up the backgrounds and foregrounds. The instructions on dyeing fabrics and use of dissolvable fabric were particularly valuable. I really adored the Puffin,Chickens and Seagull projects which just captured the attributes of these birds so well and can't wait to get started with creating my own stitched picture and cushion versions of these. You do need a sewing machine, preferably one equipped for embroidery but with even a very basic one it should be possible to produce some pleasing results. * Sassie Clarke *I really can't see anyone not getting excited about this book. Everyone loves birds and Rachel's birds really are chirpy. You'll love the interpretations in stitch of blackbirds, chickens, puffins and seagulls. Find 6 step-by-step projects to create birds plus galleries of finished work. Create a lovely bird ark or tell a story with stitch. You'll discover all the techniques used to make the birds - dyeing, dissolvable fabric, piecing by machine and hand embroidery. Work up a background with fabric scraps then create foreground elements, discovering how to use plain and patterned fabrics and stitch to advantage. This is a very colourful book full of wondrous stitch. Templates are provided at the back of the book. * YarnsandFabrics.co.uk *Table of ContentsIntroduction 6 Materials 10 Equipment 14 Design 16 Techniques 26 Capturing Character 44 Puffin 46 Chickens 52 Gallery 60 Depicting a Scene 68 Seagulls on a boat 70 Blackbirds 80 Gallery 90 Telling a Story 98 Seagulls on a Beach 100 Bird Ark 108 Gallery 118 Templates  124 Index 128

Read more less

Book SynopsisEmbroidery is one of the most typical traditional crafts in China, and has been practiced for two to three thousand years— an art form that has survived through time. This book combines the most classic techniques of Chinese embroidery with modern aesthetics to offer a new creative experience.A comprehensive guide to embroidery, the book is illustrated with detailed text, close-up photographs and computer graphics, and step-by-step explanations of the process of embroidery. This book will help you to:• Understand the unique aesthetic designs and color schemes that have emerged from traditional Chinese embroidery;• Fully master the tools, materials, and basic techniques used in embroidery;• Learn nearly 20 classic Chinese embroidery techniques, and use each one to embroider a beautiful small-sized piece or pattern;• Produce around 10 pieces, including butterflies, flowers, and kingfishers, integrating a variety of techniques;• Gain new inspiration and stimulate your imagination and creativity for new projects.• Find transfer patterns for each piece in the appendix for you to print out and use.

Read more less