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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.
If you cannot find a good range of embroidery materials locally
try www.searchpress.com
for a list of suppliers.
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