Cross-Stitch for the first time [Paperback]

Donna Kooler (Author)

Book Description

Series: For the First Time | Publication Date: March 28, 2004

All the basics of this popular and time-tested method of embroidery are compiled here in a full-color, easy-to-understand format. The introduction covers tools and general techniques, while a series of questions and answers outlines all the stitching basics, from cross-stitching with more than one color of floss to creating specialty stitches. Twenty delightful projects, geared to the beginner, will help you master each skill. Make a Bless This Home sign with a fundamental cross-stitch. Embellish a Native American-inspired Lone Wolf embroidery with beading. As you work through the chapters, the knowledge you gain will build upon itself, eventually enabling you to tackle any cross-stitch project.

Editorial Reviews

From Booklist

Chapter one treats all the basics of cross-stitch--except the actual sewing--in one large information section. The rest of the data, from stitching on Aida fabric to the use of waste canvas, are presented in 20-question formats, with oversize charts, graphs, and directions. Designs are simple, featuring animals and nature, yet appealing enough to create "I gotta sew" feelings among beginners. A gallery showcasing the work of nine needlepoint artists will inspire readers, who will be amazed at the professional talent found exercising this craft. Metric conversion charts appended. Barbara Jacobs
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

About the Author

The author lives in Pleasant Hill, CA.

--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Product Details

• Paperback: 112 pages
• Publisher: Sterling/Chapelle (March 28, 2004)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1402713568
• ISBN-13: 978-1402713569
• Product Dimensions: 10.5 x 7.9 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 15.2 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,579,385 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

8 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Cross Stitch made easier, June 12, 2001

By 

SandyDC "SandyDC" (Orlando, FL) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Cross-Stitch for the first time (Hardcover)

This book would be good for both the first time cross-stitcher and for people who have been stitching for a while. It starts with sections on preparation (what you need), and how to handle the materials, then moves on to more complicated items, all clearly explained (I finally understand what railroading is!) Also included are brief explanations of how to bead a chart and do hardanger. The charts are charming and range across a wide variety of subjects. The book is a little pricey, but the charts and explanations make up for it.

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars From the beginnig, August 8, 2003

By 

Georgina "tville" (san francisco, ca) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Cross-Stitch for the first time (Hardcover)

Kooler assumes nothing and give very complete instructions, almost in baby steps, and some very nice projects for learning the art of cross stitch. The projects deal with some of the tricky ideas of half-stitch, beaded work, paper cross stitch and of course interspersing cross-stitch with regular embroidery. The last is probably how most cross stitch projects are shown in the high end magazines.

Kooler handles ably the different types of fabric and yarn and
she really tries to address the 'fear factor' of cross stitch this book is very helpful.

Another one is The Cross Stitch Bible but it handles the topic differently.

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars love it!! simple instructions and beautiful projects, April 13, 2004

By 

C. Reedy "zafiro80" (San Antonio, TX United States) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Cross-Stitch for the first time (Hardcover)

It's a great introducion to cross stitch to hardanger and is written very simply. The projects are lively and colorful. Explaination of techniques is wonderful and i have this book next to me as i stitch for refference.

a great buy i checked it out at my library first and fell in love with it so i bought it.