Customer Reviews

Needlelace and Stumpwork

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

 

 

As I have stated elsewhere, there are three things I look for in an instructional embroidery book:

1. The book must not be so thick that it is intimidating to beginners.

2. Embroidery instructions are best if they are illustrated each step of the way; the higher the quality of the illustrations, the better a beginner will be able to learn.

3. Projects must be simple and quick to complete.

Needlelace and Stumpwork by Loretta Holzberger certainly starts off well. The book is a nice modest size for students to get into (pass on point #1). The basics are explained logically and in a simple enough manner. However, my impression of its quality was marred early on when I noticed that except for a few color plates in the center of the book, it was entirely printed in black and white and on relatively cheap stock. The illustrations were relatively sparse, simply hand drawn, and slightly amateurish compared to the standards I've come to expect from other embroidering books printed in the last 15 years or so. Several of the photographed samples were fuzzy and unclear. In short, corners were cut, and for the price I expected better. My second point was not successfully honored.

On the positive side, the projects are indeed simple and beginner appropriate (pass on point #3). I thought the butterflies pictured on the cover (the reason I bought this book to begin with) were fun and quick. With careful attention, it is possible for students to learn beginning level needlelace and stumpwork methods from this book; it does its job in the end.

-Andrea, aka merribelle

Very good book on these methods - I've been wanting to try needlelace and this book shows every little detail.

This is the best needlepoint instruction book I've ever read. There are lovely pictures of the projects. But, the best part of the book is the instructions on the stitches. There are detailed instructions that are easy to follow. There are also photos and drawings of each. I didn't think I would be able to teach myself this craft, but I certainly will! I can't wait to do the projects. The designs have both instructions for needlelace and stump work. It is great to see the design in both types of crafts. Thank you Loretta Holzberger!!!!!

Needlepoint and needlework can look too flat, two-dimensional. This book helps needlecrafters to create butterflies and more, to add another dimension to a flat needlepoint landscape. Great use can be made with metallic and glistening threads to create delicate butterflies. There are endless possiblities.

As somebody else said, there are other projects than those butterfly. Also pictures are black and white, there is very well shown how to do it. I love flowers and other things there a lot. Hopefuly will soojn start doing them.