Customer Reviews

Beginner's Guide to Stumpwork

5 star:		(5)
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2 star:		(1)
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I've looked at several other stumpwork and needlelace books and was very intimidated. This book makes these techniques seem doable and achievable by normal people. I haven't done everything from this book by any stretch, but I've done a few bits and pieces and her instructions WORK. And again, her instruction style is very unintimidating. This has to be one of the best places to start for stumpwork.

Giving a bad review is not something I care to do, but this is to save anyone else from ordering the book unless this is what they are looking for. I ordered this book instead of a Jane Nicholas book because I was afraid the Nicholas books were too advanced.

I was expecting a book about stumpwork techniques. From page 18 to page 37 there are instructions for basic embroidery techniques such as satin stich, turkey work and bullion and french knots--which almost any embroiderer already knows how to do. Little information is included about padding or wire work--which are the basis of stumpwork. Then the rest of the book is about needlelace--why doesn't the title state such? There is more needlelace than stumpwork in this book.

Additionally, the designs are amateurish, reminding one of the craft books from the 1960's. The colors are not artistically chosen, and variegated threads are used in lieu of using color gradients to create depth and shadow. The embroidery skill demonstrated is not particularly well done either, it is a clumsy but well meaning kitschy effort.

A very disappointing embroidery book that is being returned.

I have not even scratched the surface of this new stumpwork hobby, but I have tried learning a lot of new embroidery techniques over the last 10 years. If I have come away with anything from the experience it's how to spot a good beginner's book:).

Students want to feel encouraged to try. Three things are important:

1. The book must not be so thick that it's overwhelming.

2. Embroidery instructions are better if there are photos and/or illustrations for every step of the process. The higher their quality, the better a newbie will be able to follow and duplicate techniques (hint: look for full color!).

3. Projects should be basic and quick to complete.

Kay Dennis has hit the nail on the head with all of these points. The Beginner's Guide to Stumpwork covers just enough technique to give the reader a feel for the craft, really showing just a few of the most common stitches and their variations to get somebody started stumping and needlelacing. The sample projects are quite simple, even a bit primitive in my opinion, but they are presented perfectly for learning and building confidence.

Once you gain some basic practice from this book, I would recommend moving on to the Complete Book of Stumpwork Embroidery by Jane Nicholas for elegant, inspirational designs and a nice bit of background on the history of stumping.

-Andrea, aka merribelle

Beautiful book with great illustrations. Helpful illustrations for those learning or people who already know but want to verify technique. Projects are a more manageable size for beginners or those who just want a dabble into the technique.

I have always admired "stumpwork" and wanted to learn more about this fascinating needlework process. Now I can say I know that I do not have the patience to put in the tremendous hours that must go into these lovely pieces. Anyone wanting to learn to do this type of needlework and needle weaving will learn much from the author and I highly recommend the book. I will continue to "admire from afar" and stick to rug hooking, knitting and other fiber pursuits.

The instrucions are quite clear and serves its purpose. Looking forward to do those projects