Customer Reviews

Helen Philipps' Cross Stitch Samplers and Cards: Over 55 Designs from the Heart

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

 

 

I'm not sure if I would agree with the product description above that calls these designs "modern," and would more likely categorize them as "cute." Some of the designs remind me of the designs in Donna Kooler's Great Cross-Stitch Gifts. With that said, a little modification on the super bright, 1980s colors, overdyed threads, and some nice linen fabric (brown or tan instead of the recommended white), as well as the removal of backstitching could modernize these designs very nicely in a way similar to the "homespun" style of Bent Creek cross stitch ([...]).

All of the designs are simplistically colored, which may make them look less realistic and more "cartoon" like, but this also facilitates your own take on the palette. None of the designs include 1/4 or 3/4 stitches and most of the backstitch outlining is done around in such a way to look somewhat boxy (no diagonal outlines).

The book is organized into spring, summer, fall, and winter themes. Some of the samplers include room for button/charm embellishment, which is nice. The end section of the book includes a basic techniques section (which is probably not enough to teach beginners, but would serve as a good review), information on finishing techniques, the standard DMC/Anchor conversion chart, a supply information list - pretty standard. However, what I like most about the back is that in addition to several charted alphabets, there are "alternative messages" charted out for you. This could really help those of us who like to customize our stitching.

I give the book 4 stars because of my own personal taste - it's a little cheesy and cutesy, which you might like, but is highly redeemable because of its potential for customization.

i liked the book. it offers a variety of cross-stitch cards and gifts. detail instructions as well as full color pages. It also teaches you how to make ornaments, wall hangings etc...not just cards! for beginners and advanced!