Customer Reviews

The Craft of Temari

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Beginner or more experienced, this is by far the most useful and inspirational English language Temari book. Rather than teaching a pattern as a titled project, Wood teaches the basic pattern and presents several pages of photos using the pattern... you are limited only by your imagination. Multiple color photos along with clear diagrams support the text; Wood presents traditional techniques and methods so that you can stitch projects from the book, apply them to other designs, and also have the foundations to create your own designs. Wood writes in proper British English, but it's a clear and smooth flow, quite delightful. This is the book that most commonly gets recommended through the TalkTemari/Temarikai.com discussion list, and if you can only afford one Temari book, this is the that will do you best.

In the tradition of the best English embroiderers Mary Wood provides examples and inspiration for this fascinating type of needlework. Particularly helpful are the variety of examples of the design possibilities, inspiring one to try out different colors and design variations. I was able to copy a complicated pattern from an advanced Japanese book on temari by the understanding of design elements I gleaned from Mary Wood. This is not for those who need to be led through each step of the process, but a continuing source of inspiration, the book I keep coming back to for ideas.

Mary Wood has a nice approach to this art from Japan. This book is not for the beginner but after you have a few under your "obi" you should be able to do her lovely and intricate designs. She features a section on making temari for jewelry and other uses. Overall a nice book and should be in your library.

i own four other temari books. for me, margaret ludlow's has the best instructions and anna diamond's some wonderful pattern ideas. but for variety and inspiration, this is the best.

instructions are given for the most basic form of each design. the photos, which are very good, give examples of more elaborate variations of each design, of combinations of designs, and of possible filler stitches. patterns are shown in more than one color scheme, which nicely illustrates the difference color can make.

i have two minor complaints about the instructions. i think the author should have shown more pins used for some of the designs. i am an experienced stitcher, but i can't trust my eye to find the right spot to stitch on a curved object without a marker, and accuracy is essential for these designs. and i would have liked to have seen a bit more instruction on the herringbone stitch for beginners, as well as pointers for keeping the thread flat and even in the spindle design.

those minor issues aside, this is an excellent book for design ideas.

I'm new at Temari and found this book very helpful. The diagrams and pictures are great. Everyone should buy it if they have an interest in Temari.

It came in a timely matter and the price was right. The only problem was that it is smokey-smelly. Very unpleasant odor every time I open the book.

This book offers good illustrations and great patterns. I am a beginner and the patterns were difficult to read - the instructions are not as thorough as they are in other books. This wouldn't be my suggestion as your only book if you are just starting out. Overall, I would recommend this book to everyone interested in the craft.

This is a very good book but not really good for a first timer..the author assumes you know the basic procedures

Of all the books (other than the Japanese) available on this craft, I have to say that this is the best. For those of you interested in, or wanting to create a Temari this book will give you clear, concise instructions along with diagrams and designs to inspire. From easy to the more advanced, and all in colour. Thinking of trying Temari? Then you'll certainly need this book.

Enjoy!
Ginny