Customer Reviews

A Complete Guide to Creative Embroidery: Designs * Textures * Stitches

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From cover to cover this book is truly an inspiration in design, texture & embroidery. The richness & color in every creation leaps out from the page and urges you to get started. Jan Beaney & Jean Littlejohn have combined their talents to present a wealth of ideas for everyone from beginner to artist. They inspire you to see beyond the visual image, to explore a multitude of different mediums, such as paper, textiles, paints & yarn. Even if like me, you never pick up a needle, you will find yourself creating textured designs in a variety of exciting ways. This beautiful book gives a whole new meaning to the word "embroidery".

This book is worth tracking down, in a used copy. Great color photos, great discussion of traditional and non-traditional mediums. It's not for everyone, though. If you are into traditional embroidery or stitchery, look elsewhere. If you like a painterly, free wheeling use of materials, with an emphasis on experimentation and impressionistic results, you can't beat Jan Beaney and Jean Littlejohn. Their approach to fiber has altered my view of creative stitchery. I love this book, and would definitely recommend it to those who want to color outside the lines.

If you can only buy one of Jan Beaney and Jean Littlejohn's books this is
the one I'd recommend. It isn't one of the smaller, numbered booklets but
has 104+ pages of great information and many color photos.

The book is divided into two parts. First, design is investigated in such
a way that you want to run outside with sketchbook and pen. The second
part covers the actual fabric embellishment with paints, applique, stitches, and machine embroidery.

A glossary and index makes this a first-turn-to choice for a quick answer. On those days when inspiration drags its heels I open this
book to remember why I love needlework!