Needlework, textile and fabric crafts Books

Book SynopsisThe elegant form, fragile iridescent wings, mystical bead-like eyes and shimmering colours of the dragonfly have fascinated needleworkers for centuries. Jane Nicholas takes a close look at the anatomy of dragonflies and damselflies and their representation in natural history. She combines those observations with designs form as far back as the sixteenth-century and from throughout the world and then uses a variety of materials and techniques to build works of mesmerising beauty. Jane shares new ways of using unusual materials to interpret and create your own dragonfly designs. The projects - including a remarkable collection of nine creatures in a 'specimen box' - not only set off the dragonflies exquisitely, but they exemplify Jane's impeccable eye for detail and composition. This stunning book - fascinating for anyone interested in textured embroidery is a pure delight to read.

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Book SynopsisSeventeen paintings are reproduced in amazing detail using the simplest of stitches to create a remarkably complex effect. Step-by-step instructions are included for each embroidery - fabric, thread, stitches - which will allow both the novice and the experienced embroiderer to create their own stunning botanical collection. Trade ReviewKarenplatt.co.uk: Early nineteenth century botanical artist, Frenchman Pierre Joseph Redoute is renowned for his paintings of flowers. These have inspired the embroideries of Trish Burr in this book. Trish takes seventeen paintings and transforms them into beautiful embroideries with great detail and colour. She uses simple stitiches and yet manages to create a complex effect with tone. The book initiates the beginner into creating delightful stitchery with an introduction, basic materials and equipment and the stitches to master to get you off to a good start. A starter project follows to ensure you practice your new-found skills. We then get into the meat of the book, the seventeen projects from Camellia, Rosa, iris, Anemone and many more favourites. Each project gives detailed materials and colours of thread (standard available world-wide). Every aspect of this book is accompanied by crystal clear line drawings and good photographs to guide you through the process. It is a wonderful 96-page book for all lovers of flowers, embroidery and Redoute.Table of ContentsAcknowledgments; Preface; Introduction; Materials; Techniques; Tips for working the designs; Stitch glossary; Projects: Camellia blanc; Bengale the hymenee; Sabot des alpes; Iris xiphium variete; Convolculus tricoleur; Dahlia double; Pavot; Magnolia soulangeana; Rosa gallica maheka; Iris pale; Amaryllis bresilienne; La dillene; Strelitzia; Varietes de rose jaune; Ipomoea quamoclit; Anemone simple; Le lys blanc.

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Book SynopsisThe half doll pincushions in this collection are exquisite in design and style. The dolls are a combination of silk skirts with wool embroidered top skirts to the most wonderful bridal gown of silk, heavily embroidered with silk ribbon and stranded threads. You will love this book from start to finish and ponder over which doll you should embroider first or just embroider the lot for a perfect collection. Thirteen dolls with easy-to-follow instructions, and clear, detailed illustrations for each, as well as extra notes on special techniques. Wonderful styled photographs bring the dolls to life, as well as close up photographs to show the exquisite embroidery. The designs in this book are for beginners, as well as advanced embroiderers alike.Table of Contentsintroduction. Half Dolls. Hints and Techniques. Working the embroidery. Stitch guide. How to make the puffs. Making the pincushions. Projects. Pattern sheets

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Book SynopsisGoldwork Embroidery by Mary Brown is the most comprehensive book on this ancient form of embroidery. The history of goldwork in Britain and Europe is illuminated with images in glorious full-colour of gold embroidered costumes and textiles held in museums and private collections, many never previously published or seen by the public. This book includes fifteen original projects that either reference historical examples or exhibit contemporary techniques for this form of embroidery. A beautiful book that covers every aspect of gold embroidery.Trade ReviewAug/Sep 08 An exciting and sometimes challenging technique, goldwork certainly has the wow factor, and the glorious images in this book show the technique in all its glory. The history of goldwork in Britain and Europe is illustrated with photographs of embroidered costumes and textiles from museums and private collections – many of which have never previously been published or been on public view. There are also 15 embroidery projects, each with clear instructions; some are suitable for beginners, while others are more complex, but the chapters on materials and techniques ensure that all of the methods are clearly explained. * Stitch *Table of ContentsTitle: Goldwork Embroidery: Designs and Projects Author: Mary Brown Description: Goldwork Embroidery by Mary Brown is the most comprehensive book on this ancient form of embroidery. The history of goldwork in Britain and Europe is illuminated with images in glorious full-colour of gold embroidered costumes and textiles held in museums and private collections, many never previously published or seen by the public. This book includes fifteen original projects that either reference historical examples or exhibit contemporary techniques for this form of embroidery. A beautiful book that covers every aspect of goldwork embroidery. No. of pages: 208 Cover type: Paperback Trim size: 208 x 210mm Colour type: Full colour Series: Milner Craft Series Imprint: Sally Milner Publishing ISBN: 978 1 86351 366 1 RRP: A$49.95 Contents SECTION I: BACKGROUND AND TECHNIQUES 1 A Brief History of Goldwork Embroidery Medieval Goldwork: 12th to 15th centuries Tudor, Elizabethan and Stuart Goldwork: 16th and 15th centuries Rococo and Regency/Directoire Goldwork: 18th and 19th centuries 20th Century Goldwork 2 Metal Threads: history and manufacture 3 Materials, Equipment and Preparation 4 Goldwork Embroidery Techniques SECTION II: THE PROJECTS Contemporary Jewel Circle of Hearts Spray of Flowers Silver Flower White Poppy Horus Eye Medallion Ornamental Fan Portrait of a Woman Basket of Flowers Vine of Flowers Japanese Landscape Byzantine Angel Cornucopia Memories of Russia

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Book SynopsisOver the last 200 years crochet in its various forms has given rise to an unknown number of stitches. Crochet Techniques brings together instructions for stitches and their variations to create five colourful and attractive samplers - two based on Classic stitches, one on Jacquard stitch, a fourth based on Tunisian crochet (also called Tricot), and another based on Crochenit (sometimes known as 'on the double' crochet. Working these patterns will help you gain a solid, well-grounded knowledge of crochet. Many of the stitches are a breeze, and others require a little more concentration - but there's no equal to the feeling of accomplishment that mastering them will give you. As you make your way through the techniques you will discover a range of interesting and useful stitches that you will want to use over and over again - not just as rugs but to create items of your own. You will also find discussion of common crochet problems and tips for solving them.Trade ReviewJuly 08 Look out for this informative and comprehensive book. It is a valuable reference for any lover of crochet with a wide selection of stitch patterns and techniques. There are 36 linear stitch patterns and 19 in-the-round motifs that can be used for many different projects and ideas. The book presents them as morsels that can then be combined to create rugs and throws as a decorative reference that can inspire you again and again. The book then progresses to colour work where 30 squares are charted as cololurful patterns that can all be extended and worked in any shade you like. Carrying on further than many other crochet books, Renate then shows how to work another 36 patterns in Tunisian crochet and 30 ways with crochenit, a derivative of Tunisian crochet. As well as being an extensive collection of patterns for an avid crocheter, the book is also an excellent primer for anyone who is new to crochet. The basics of the technique are thoroughly and clearly explained in down to earth language and excellent diagrams and is an excellent source. * Knit Today *Table of Contents50 great designs at your fingertips At-a-glance icons indicate skill levels, direction of work and best application Great way to show and use the mix and match capability of crochet blocks

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Book SynopsisSurface Works is about using plain knit or crocheted backgrounds to which surface decoration can be added and the projects in this book were created with that in mind. There are many alternative meanings for decorate, including adorn, bedeck, brighten, do up, embellish, enhance, enrich, festoon, frill, gussy up, jazz up, ornament, and trim, all of which illustrate the focus of Surface Works. Packed full with information, Surface Works contains over 90 original textured and creative stitch motifs to make, plus 34 new projects including 7 garments with full templates and instructions. Jenny's fantastic 'how-to' section is included plus a comprehensive stitch guide. There are three main categories used throughout: Altering the Surface - this can be as simple as adding another thread to an existing one. Using basic stitches and fancy yarns will produce a richly textured surface and therefore result in a much more interesting fabric with little effort on your part. Collaging (or Layering the Surface) - adding objects to the background in combination or isolation such as beads, lace, cloth, braids, knit and crocheted motifs etc. Interrupting the Surface - this entails working in a certain technique such as garter stitch or double crochet (single crochet) for a few cm's (inches) and then introducing something different. For example, changing from knitting to crochet or from one stitch technique to another so that the surface appearance of the fabric changes. The end result of working with these methods can be elaborately ornate, totally crazy or subtle and elegant.Trade ReviewSurface Works is about using plain knitted or crocheted backgrounds to which surface decoration can be added," is how Jenny Dowde describes her book. She loves the idea of being able to use only small amounts of very expensive yarns or beads, braids and ribbons to jazz up otherwise plain work, or to break up the surface with texture. Suggested embellishments include textured stitches, both knit and crochet, edgings, colour knitting and 'collage' using flowers, I-cord and needle felting, to name a few. She describes and gives instructions for her projects - hats, scarves, bags, cushions and garments - all adorned in some way. She is happy for them to be made as they are but hopes she will inspire readers to create their own 'masterpieces'. She quotes Cate Blanchett, who said, "I love strange choices. I'm always interested in people who depart from what is expected of them and go into new territory". This is the sort of journey any 'fibre-fan' will embark on with this book. Full of exciting and original ideas, it will inspire them to experiment and create their own art-to-wear-and-use. Surface Works is definitely a must-have and should occupy a prominent place on the bookshelf to be referred to again and again.- Pam Mitchell, The Textile Directory This book takes plain knitted and crocheted backgrounds and embellishes them with surface decoration. In her introduction, Jenny advocates the use of the book as a platform for your ideas, although patterns can be followed as directed, which gives a bit more freedom to the reader in how the projects are tackled. The book starts by taking you through creating different backgrounds by knitting or crocheting, and then looks at embellishments that can be added (including a very novel use of paperclips). After this, you are presented with a series of projects. This is a very generous book, with 35 Projects divided into sections of type (including Bags, Shawls, Cushions and Adornments), each one different from the next. Throughout, you are given full instructions on executing from start to finish, so everything you need can be found in the pages. I would say that this book is aimed at the confident knitter/crocheter, as instructions are abbreviated. There is a glossary at the beginning that you could refer back to, but if you do not understand the terminology, then you will be constantly flicking backwards and forward, which will probably be off-putting. However, the photos are very clear and colourful and, if you are not a knitter, you can still get inspiration from the projects for embellishing ready-made pieces with stitch. A great book for those who want to take their knitted pieces to the next level.-Samantha Packer, Workshop on the Web Add surface decoration to plain knitted or crocheted backgrounds. Looking at 35 projects which include scarves, hats and neckpieces and shawls and tops, each item is decorated using techniques that are fully described and illustrated. The first half of the book shows techniques and ideas. The book begins with ideas for texture in knitting and crochet and a number of stitches are illustrated and instructions are given. I think the most interesting of these are picot and fluffle. Edgings, braids and cords follow on. If you really want edgings and paterns of this nature, this is done far better by Nicky Epstein. Next up is what is described as painless colour knitting. We then go on to collage surfaces - adding embellishments, which is an interesting concept, but I don't see too many people adding paper clips to their knitted surfaces, safety pins in the punk era maybe. The Arty Bits section continues this them and is a better attempt at ideas for surface decoration including ridges and freeform stitching, although the latter is not explained in detail. The 35 projects shows the techniques in practice. They include some very good ideas for bags and cushions. Equally the ideas for crocheted jewellery are interesting. I found the ideas used for scarves and hats, jackets and tops not so successful. There is no shaping to the garments and they look awkward. This book has its good and bad points. It will no doubt give you ideas to follow on your own and can be used as a starting point.-KarenPlatt.co.ukTable of Contents34 all new projects, including 7 garments, all with colour photographs, easy-to-follow instructions and templates where appropriate A huge collection of exciting motifs in knitting and crochet to incorporate into freeform garments and accessories A comprehensive stitch glossary

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Book SynopsisThis is a book about creating sumptuous embellished surfaces made by collaging rich colourful silks, transparent organza and ribbons stitching with embroidery threads and ribbons, knitting and other yarns, and adding further texture with raised embroidery, cords, metallic threads and beads. Experience a process of creating where each application allows the surface to evolve from the first layer upwards with a sense of playfulness and thinking outside the square. The method or process is to create an original soft textile by assembling layers of fabric as a background that is embellished with stitches, quilting, beads and cords. Within the 144 pages there are 28 amazing projects, all with full instructions for an exact reproduction, or ideas for using what is available, or combining techniques throughout the book to create a truly unique piece. With beautiful photography of finished pieces, this book is a feast for the eyes and your creative spirit. 'You can't fail to be inspired by this wonderfully colourful book. The 28 projects are all clearly explained and illustrated with an abundance of sketches and colour photographs ... every embroidery in the book is a mouth-watering confection. In fact, I think the whole book is a 'zinger'! StitchTrade ReviewJune/July 10 You can't fail to be inspired by this wonderfully colourful book. The 28 projects are all clearly explained and illustrated with an abundance of sketches and colour photographs. The projects are organised into four sections: backgrounds; stitches for texture and effect; cords for embellishing and trimming; and stitch and bead patterns – and each section is more luscious than the last. The wrapped and embellished cords, sometimes enriched with knots and beads, are absolutely gorgeous; they can be used singly, twisted or plaited together, couched onto fabric to create pattern or texture, become an integral part of an embellished surface, or provide the perfect finishing touch to a project. Using richly coloured silk fabrics and brightly coloured threads (Effie gives a list of 'zinger' DMC colours she likes to use), every embroidery in the book is a mouth-watering confection. In fact, I think the whole book is a 'zinger'! * Stitch *Table of Contents" Effie Mitrofanis has an international reputation as a fine and versatile embroiderer and craftsperson " Unique projects and ideas to create more 'outside the square' " Step-by-step instruction for projects " Beautiful colour photographs " A feast for the eyes and your creative spirit. " From one of the world's most popular and successful fabric and quilt designers

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Book SynopsisWhat better way to celebrate and appreciate the natural beauty of flowers than to recreate it into glorious felt that can be adorned, worn or used as decorative embellishments?Gillian Harris, bestselling author of Complete Feltmaking and Carnival of Felting, invites you to learn the fundamentals of felting while making bright and colourful blooms.Flowers in an array of colours from near and far are included, from simple white daisies and lilies, cheery yellow daffodils, sunflowers and primroses, to striking red roses, tulips and poppies. If you prefer something more dramatic, there are vibrant pink cherry blossoms, fuchsia, carnations, rich purple irises, pansies and passionflowers. With little more than a selection of wholesome Merino wooltops, you'll soon become adept at fashioning realistic looking petals resplendent with delicate details, as well as crafting stems, seedpods and leaves to give your felt flowers a fantastic finishing touch.Felting Fabulous Flowers contains all the simple tips, tricks and easy techniques you need to create impressive, vibrantly coloured decorations to be proud of in just a matter of hours.Word count: 15,000

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Book SynopsisFor those wishing to perfect their sewing skills, the Focus on Fashion Details series includes 4 books with sewing instruction pages that correspond to specific details for constructing men's, women's and children's garments. These detailed pages give the necessary patterns for tracing and show how to make them step-by-step. Written in simple language for universal comprehension, each step is easy to follow with sketches. Simplified secrets and tricks from the ready-to-wear industry for home sewingTable of ContentsSlide fasteners - zippers Edge to edge zipper Lapped zipper Invisible zipper Symbols for visible and concealed centre front zippers Flies Trouser fly zipper without fly tab and with separate fly tab Trouser button fly for jeans Trouser zipper fly with separate tab + ribbon-backed waistband Cardboard template for topstitching trouser fly curves Measurement chart for trouser fly top stiching lengths Waistband. Fitted felled waistband Straight felled waistband Waistband with belt loops Elasticized waistband Measurement chart for waistline ease values Pleats and vents Lexicon

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Book SynopsisUsing a simple, clear, logical, precise method, these books are conceived through a rational technique known as Flat Patternmaking which gives valid, key formulas to help construct any conceivable garment. The methods are accessible to everyone those wanting to make unique creations for their family or those who wish to pursue a creative career in fashion as patternmakers, designers, product managers or clothing manufacturers. The second section of our Become a Patternmaker Children's Garments supplements the previous book by explaining how to change sizes for these clothes, step-by-step.Table of ContentsSupplies Collection process General grading methods Taking measurements and measurement charts for Layette, Toddler, Children and Junior Grading Bodices Grading Sleeves Grading Collars Grading Trousers Grading Skirts Size evolutions for necklines, shoulders and sleeve lengths-head ease Size evolutions for Shirts-Polos-Blouses, for Dresses-Tops-Skirts, Sweatshirts, Trousers and T-Shirts Layette outfits Child and Junior outfits

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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Book SynopsisThis book provides step-by-step instructions for over 25 carpets and rugs for the dolls' house. The projects come in a variety of classic styles and the range of stitches will suit all skill levels. Each design has a colour chart, and specific materials, tools and techniques are fully explained.Table of ContentsIntroduction; Materials and techniques; Making up the carpets Stitches; Conversion charts; 3 room sized carpets approx. 9 X 11in; Victorian Berlin work; Georgian: Aubusson style; Plain with a decorative border; 5 feature rugs approx. 5 X 7in; These would sit in the middle of a room or under the dining table and chairs for example.; William Morris: Arts & Crafts; Chinese; Georgian: Greek style; Persian - rich red, gold and blue; Floral - central posy with lattice and floral border; 4 occasional rugs approx. 4 X 6in; These could be hearth rugs, bedside rugs or just sit to the side in a room.; Numnah Rug; Chinese dragon; Turkish; Florentine; 6 small rugs approx. 2 X 2in; These can be placed at will through the house where a decoration is needed. Front doormat (inc. variation and bath mat); Rag rug; Clarice Cliff; Persian; Art nouveau; Simple patterned mat; 2 stair carpets; These will both have borders so that widths can be adjusted as necessary. Oriental in rich colours; Floral bordered in soft colours that can easily be adapted. Suppliers; Acknowledgments; Index

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Book SynopsisA collection of techniques and projects for sewers of all abilities looking to create the perfect curtains to embellish their homes. It includes twelve projects from a variety of designers that allow you to put the techniques into practise and create headings, valances, linings and pelmets for your curtains.Table of ContentsIntroduction; Equipment/techniques/hardware/fabrics; 1. Making casings and concealed seams Cosy cafe curtains; 2. Making tab-top curtains Triangular tab-top curtains; 3. Making tiebacks Beautiful bordered curtains; 4. Using the bagging technique Dramatic double-vision curtains; 5. Dressing unusual window shapes Shapely arched window dressing; 6. Sewing with sheers Voluptuous voile curtains; 7. Making perfect pockets Surprise pocket voiles; 8. Using different curtain headers Perfect pinch pleat curtains; 9. Working with patterned fabric Gorgeous goblet curtains; 10. Making swags and jabots A different view of swags and jabots; 11. Making valances Ruffled and tapered valance; 12. Making linings and interlinings Fabulous feather-trimmed curtains; Glossary.

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Book SynopsisThis book contains everything you need to become confident in must-have dressmaking skills, from reading patterns to sewing up and making alterations. Eight garment-led chapters show you how to learn and perfect dressmaking as you build your wardrobe or make alterations. Stylish photography, simple step-by-step instructions and handy tips make this an essential buy for anyone who sews or wants to get started. It is a one-stop reference that will be dipped into time and time again.Table of ContentsIntroduction Tools & equipment Basic sewing skills Understanding paper patterns Basic adjustments Fabrics explored Interfacings, interlinings & stabilisers Garment & Technique Focus: • Skirts • Dresses • Trousers • Tops • Jackets Measurement charts Troubleshooting Glossary Suppliers Index

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Book SynopsisThis artistic, inspirational guide to wearable art shows you how to nuno-felt patterns and textures into luxurious fabrics!

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Book SynopsisMandy Shaw isn't just dreaming of a white Christmas she is dreaming of a Red & White Christmas and you will too when you see Mandy's this fabulous book which combines two of her favourite things - stitching in Red & White and Christmas. Beautifully photographed in Mandy's own home, the 10 brand projects include simple but stylish tree decorations, a comfy cushion, cheeky mice and a cosy quilt. The Red & White colour scheme runs throughout the projects so you can stitch them all in the sure knowledge they will coordinate and make your home look wonderful this Christmas. The book includes detailed instructions for all the projects and over 25 motifs, patterns and templates all at full size. All you will need to get started is fabric, a needle and thread so you too can stitch yourself a Red & White Christmas.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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