Customer Reviews

A Perfect World in Ribbon Embroidery and Stumpwork

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

 

 

1. This book is definitely intermediate level or above. Having learned some stumpwork and ribbon embroidery myself, I think of my skills as intermediate and I would never give this to a beginner as a learning tool. Although the author does explain the stitches and techniques, it is done in a very condensed way that could be confusing for first-timers. There are few how-to illustrations here compared to beginner's books.

2. In order to complete the embroidery sampler as pictured (the whole book is a panel-by-panel sampler project, by the way), you need to go on the author's Web site and order her pre-printed cotton fabric to embroider and stump on top of. In theory one could trace the design in the book, but that would leave out the subtle colors and shading that give this piece its extraordinary colorful, dimensional quality. Apparently, all of Di van Niekerk's books need their accompanying printed fabrics, and this one is about 16 American dollars. Why this is never mentioned either on the online page or on the book's cover is a mystery to me.

3. The threads and silk ribbons that you will need for Di's projects are brand names that can not easily be found outside of South Africa (the author lives in Cape Town). You can order these from her Web site as well. Of course you could use YLI or other brands more available in America, but you'd have to guess to match the colors. I'd feel more comfortable using the author's recommended brands and colors.

A Perfect World in Ribbon Embroidery and Stumpwork is simply exquisite. It features high-quality, lovely, original designs. The finished effect of combining ribbon embroidery and stumpwork takes my breath away, and Di van Niekerk deserves credit as a pioneer of sorts in the world of embroidery. She does indeed show a few techniques that I have never seen before.

Be prepared to do some online shopping first, and you will be able to make a sampler project that will be the envy of all your embroidering friends.
-Andrea, aka Merribelle

This is a GREAT book whether you are a beginner or a more advanced stitcher.With all due respect, I must disagree with Cynthia McCorkle's review. The book is quite different from the earlier one. Here are a few techniques not included in the earlier book: the flowers are different, the moth's wings, the organza petals of the Poppy, the silk petals of the Protea and the Waterlily, the barbola work on the Strelitzia flower, a new way to make the Roses and the loose petals of the Cosmos flower( on the cover of the book). I learned a lot of new techniques in this book. I have not only used some of the ideas to embellish my many needlepoint projects, but also enhanced my handmade greeting cards and my scrapbooks. I really like the clarity of the instructions, too!

I purchased this book for a present for a friend, who is a vastly more experienced embroiderer, than myself.But first, I had the delight of looking at the book myself,I was bowled over by the delightful mixter of animals and plants,and only wish I could be that skilled. When I gave it to my friend she was equally delighted so you have 2 satisfied custumers.Jillian

This is by far the best book on this subject I have seen. Great instruction and it is beautifully illustrated.

I love all of her books however this is a favorite. Beautiful work and wonderfully illustrated to easily create for yourself.

Just a wonderful challenging project. I finished the RES project and this one is a must companion piece.

I received my book quickly and in great condition. I'm always pleased with service from Amazon.