Book Description
Both novice and expert stitchers will find a mine of useful material in this book to help them obtain the best results from their cross stitch work. Ir is divided into theree parts, each section crammed with essential information and valuable hints.
Part One covers basic techniques such as reading a chart, the different threads and fabrics available, and how to get stitching with them.
Part Two explores creative options including three-dimensional cross stitch, using metallic threads and space-dyed threads, and how to best use the different fabrics available.
Part Three explores the use of bead, button and charm embellishments.
At the end of the book there is a comprehensive stitch library, an essential reference for those keen to develop their counted thread embroidery skills.
Illustrated with step by step color photographs, this book demonstrates how easily the stitching can be made up into a wide range of stunning projects.
Jane Greenoff is Managing Director of the Cross Stitch Guild and the Inglestone Collection kit company. She lives in Fairford, Gloucestershire.
Customer Reviews:
Very Pleased.......2007-07-23
I have been cross-stitching for many years but wanted this book to learn how to use the new threads and materials that were coming out and I was not disappointed. It answered my questions on using beads and embellishments, on how to use the new linen threads and it helped me brush up on techniques I hadn't used in a long time like "railroading" my threads while stitching. Highly informative and easy to understand for everybody. Would be invaluable for a novice stitcher!
Love it...........2007-06-11
I have not read the whole book as of yet??? But so far I am really pleased with this product. It is colorful, easy to understand..and the perfect size to keep in my cross stitching bag.
Good book for beginner or advanced cross-stitcher.......2007-05-14
I have done cross stitching for years and still learned alot of interesting things from this book. Would also be great for first time beginners.
Fine for beginners.......2006-11-11
This book is fine for beginners but doesn't have a lot of tips for an accomplished stitcher. The charts are not very attractive.
Must have for counted thread enthusiasts.......2006-01-12
Don't be fooled into thinking this is just a cross-stitch guide, though much of the discussion is about cross stitch. Counted thread work of all kinds are included in this book. It's wonderful!
If you love counted cross stitch, Hardangar, etc., this book is for you. Clear pictures and easy-to-understand descriptions of the stitches demonstrated make it a reference book of value. The reviews of different types of fabric and stitching fibers is an added joy. The design types are wonderful.
Don't hesitate to get this marvelous book, you'll be glad you did!
Book Description
In this wicked little book, Julie Jackson reinvents the age-old craft of cross-stitch, finally putting an end to all that saccharine sentimentalism and giving modern stitchers the chance to say what's really on their minds. Stitch up Bitch in Kitchen for a heartfelt housewarming gift. Spread cheer with the ever-festive Bite Me. Or whip up This Place Sucks for a cherished co-worker. This fully illustrated book includes 33 of Jackson's best patterns and easy-to-follow directions. Jackson outlines the simple tools and techniques needed and even offers encouragement and tips on how to create one-of-a-kind revolutionary designs from craft-store patterns with subversive sentiments all your own.
Customer Reviews:
Best cross-stitch book ever.......2007-10-10
I've been an embroiderer since I was 7. In all that time, it never occurred to me to even try counted cross-stitching. It just looked, for lack of a better phrase, like "baby stuff".
Not this. Julie Jackson has cured me, I think. Her cross stitching kits and charts mix pretty boring, traditional stuff with some eye-scorching language. I love them. I don't think I'd put any of these up until my little one is older - she's 5 1/2 now - but I'd make 'em. Oh yes. I would.
Ms. Jackson even gives charts for a few different alphabet styles, to allow you to make up your own in case these don't go quite far enough for you. If you're like me and haven't even bothered with counted cross-stitch, you owe it to yourself to at least give this book a try.
Cross Stitch: Not Just for Old Ladies Anymore.......2007-09-23
When I started cross stitching to assist with my quitting smoking, my husband didn't really make fun of me because he knew it would help. When I continued to do it, he told me I was a 65-year old woman trapped in a 25 year old's body . . . . until this book came and I started stitching the patterns in it.
One of the downfalls is that lettering is all more or less the same "font" throughout the various sayings or patterns with little variation. However, the patterns are simple enough for a beginner, but fun enough that a seasoned pro would have the desire to revert back.
The best part of the book overrides all of it's (few) faults: Julie Jackson encourages you to go beyond the patterns. As a still relatively new stitcher, I bought the little packs at the craft store and was terrified to change or deviate from them for fear of being "wrong." This book encourages you to not only stitch the words you think or say when you make a mistake, but to personalize the craft and make the project your own.
Subversive Cross Stich has changed my husband's mind about cross stitch being just for old ladies, because if any old lady stitched any of the patterns in here, she'd be pretty damn cool in my book. And if she were appalled at the patterns, I'm sure Julie Jackson would tell her to "Kiss My Grits."
Rocked my cross stitchin' world.......2007-09-14
I've loved the Subversive Cross Stitch since I stumbled across the page awhile back, but I hadn't gotten the chance in my crafting schedule to give a second thought to actually creating such lovalicious signs. Until a coworker told me how easy cross stitch is and the memories of my childhood cross stitching days flooded back. This is one of the easiest and fastest ways to start out your crafting career. Most craft shops have the canvas and thread that are required and the only other thing you need is this nifty little book, which contained all of my favourite sayings from the website including beeyotch with the little bees. I'm making my mom the Bitch in Kitchen for her Xmas present. Everyone looks at a completed cross stitch project like it's the hardest thing in the world, but this book makes it so easy and simple! Plus, who wouldn't get a good chuckle from some of these great sayings!
Really where would you put this?.......2007-09-08
Im sorry I wouldn't want these words in my home, in front of my kids or any other kids. I guess if you want to live with this under a curtain go ahead and put your time and display it under a sheet. Sorry, the world is ugly enough, why spread it! And I would never tell someone to go F-themselves and greet them at the door with this picture in my hall.
Definitely a great purchase........2007-08-29
This book is great. I laughed so hard when I looked at all the designs. Usually when I buy a craft book there are a few things I won't make in it. Not this book! I'll definitely be stitching them all. Definitely worth my money.
Book Description
A striking needlework image of the Taj Mahal, a framed picture featuring an elephant wearing a brightly-hued rug, a footstool adorned with 2 embroidered peacocks: these cross-stitch projects capture all the heat and color of India. The lustrous patterns decorate cushions, box lids, bookmarks, cards, bell pulls, bags, and more. Intricate motifs, beautiful beadwork, and lavish metallic threads adorn many of the designs, resulting in ornate and sumptuous items that are a pleasure to create and to own.
Customer Reviews:
India cross-stitch design book review.......2007-10-09
There are several designs in this book that I would like to make. The charts are a little small, and the colours are so similar that it is sometimes hard to see the contrast. I changed lots of the colours but I love the basic designs. Projects of different sizes for every taste.
very beautiful, for the advanced stitcher.......2007-07-30
I had high hopes for this book, and it delivered some. The designs are beautiful, but most of them quite large and for the very advanced stitcher. If you have a love for India and lots of time on your hands, this one is for you!
Beautiful Indian Designs.......2005-02-25
This is one of my absolute favorite cross stitching books. I have always loved Indian arts, and this book did not dissappoint me. The charts are beautiful, and there is a wonderful variety of projects, large and small. I feel it was worth every penny I spent for it. You can make beautiful, small keepsakes and gifts or you can make intricate samplers, pictures, pillow covers, keychains, purses, and wall hangings. Some projects are relatively quick to make, and others take longer. I absolutely love the floral and paisley motifs. There are some other projects that require beading, but they are very beautiful. The only thing I found a little cumbersome is the threads are listed as Anchor only, and I only have access to DMC threads where I live. Also, the color conversion chart at the end of the book does not list all of the colors used. Some of the Anchor threads do not have a DMC equivalent, so I ordered a few colors online. If you aren't very picky like I am, you might be satisfied to just look at the pictures and choose a color that is close to the picture. The author did a wonderful job with this compilation of Indian art as cross stitch. She borrowed designs from Indian archetecture, metal work, pottery, rugs, and clothing. This is by far one of my favorite cross stitch books.
Customer Reviews:
Great design charts, but too cutesy.......2007-08-14
This book was somewhat of a disappointment for me. On the positive side, the design charts were clear and easy to follow, and I appreciated the publication of the actual stitch count by each chart. However, that said, the patterns were too small and overly cutesy - almost to the point of being in bad taste.
Best "Small Designs" Book.......2001-12-21
This book has been around for some time now and since I'm not partial to small designs because I prefer big projects,I never got around to buying this book,but since Amazon has introduced its new and wonderful "Look Inside" feature I got the chance to look through some of its pages and found that the designs though small are rich with color and detail. The designs are original they range from playful and fun to sophisticated and fancy. The charts are of good size,in black and white but very clear to follow. The photographs of all the end results are included. Some of the designs can be done in as little as 15 minutes,the most complicated in two hours.I'm glad I bought this book,I've already finished a simple project with one of its designs which only took me an hour and a half. With 501 designs I'm sure to find a couple of hundred more to work on.
Good designs but a disappointment.......2001-07-07
This book would be a great addition to my collection if I didn't have a collection. The designs themselves are great but these designs have been used in other books or are so similaar to other patterns in several other books that I regret buying. The carts are in black and white. They are small designs and easy to finish in a couple of hours. Quite a few of these small designs change colors over 10 times. If you have few cross stitch books, this one would be a great addition to your beginning collection. But if you have a large collection, examine this before buying.
Great Hamster Cross Stitch!.......2000-08-24
I loved the variety of the designs in all catagories, but loved the pet patterns the most. The three hamster designs were especially adorable and very appreciated since designs of life-like rodents (especially hamsters, guinea pigs, rats etc.) are impossible to find.:-) I hope that there will be ferret cross stitch patterns soon!
A very enjoyable, rich Design Book.......1999-05-26
The book is my most tresured and used possessions. I also do my own designs but often use 501 Cross Stich Designs for a refrence.Recently I found an other use for the instructions , Iam using the designs as audioscope paterns for WebTv and have had many complinents on the finished pictures, just to bad thatPC's can not read them, they are missing out. The book is definitely my most used craftbook, with the many designs for all occassions.
Customer Reviews:
Unforgettable Series.......2007-08-15
Like most of the people who wrote reviews on this book and on all of Diana's books, this series is the only series I have ever read that has stuck with me for over 15 years. I have read and re-read every one of the books and cried when my husband surprised me with her last book I didn't even know was coming out. I have been reading since I was 5 years old, non stop, voraciously. For these books to be my favorites that I read and read again is saying alot.
Ms. Gabaldon fleshed out her characters so well that they are truly unforgettable and real. There are no cheesy fake romance lines in these books, but a real love story.
Regarding the 2 star review, someone is being too defensive. The point is that Claire is not weak and helpless but is in a world where women are treated as such. Even a kind, loving person like Jamie is steeped in his culture's view of women and their behavior. But through the series, Jamie comes to value Claire's independence and intelligence. That part of the first book was a contrast to their future relationship. Women can only be put down if they allow themselves to be.
I've read Outlander 4 times & the series twice!.......2007-07-29
Ms Gabaldon is a magnificent character writer - I feel that I personally know the characters, good and bad. She gives such intimate descriptions that demonstrate their personalities, frailties and strengths. They are not perfect; they seem like family or neighbors. The world they live in is steeped in color, sights and smells, from the horrors of the battlefield and prison cells to the bread baking in Mrs. Bugs oven; from stinking slavers to the high mountains of North Carolina.
Claire, Brianna and Roger must all adapt to vast social changes, including speech, dress, money (mostly lack of it) and even posture (you don't walk like a woman should.) Women, excluding widows, were merely property not so many years ago, and had little say in their own lives, never mind that of politics. If Jaime was extreme in his handling of Claire in Outlander, it is because that was the accepted behavior. Keep reading, and you will understand that the author uses this action to demonstrate the complete lack of recourse that any female had in those times. What a shock to a 20th Century woman lost in another era. That is what the Two-star reviewer has missed. (Although Claire eventually mostly forgives Jaime, she never forgets, nor does she allow him to forget. There is a fabulous scene in the last book where they both refer to that moment, and the fact that they each have the power to hurt the other but not without hurting themselves.) Ms Gabaldon uses numerous incidences of violence throughout the series that display tumultuous times, frequent lawlessness or corruption of the law, and even complete lack of law or law enforcement - all things that Claire, and especially Brianna and Roger, must learn quickly or die. There are also instances where communities must band together for survival for shelter, food and protection (try 4 families in one 3 bedroom house with no running water.) I think that honest research into undeveloped parts of the world today will show that life must have been a tremendous struggle during the European settlement of this continent.
But, I think the best part of the story is the enduring love between Claire and Jaime, through all of their struggles. They are a shining example of a committed marriage for better or worse, richer or poorer. And any woman who doesn't believe she is looking for her own "Jaime" is fooling herself.
Not a Romance - but an amazing adventure.......2007-07-18
I have read the entire series from Outlander(thanks for pointing out that Cross Stitch was the same, thought I found another one!) through A Breathe of Snow and Ashes at least 3 times now. The comments from the 2 star are very sad indeed. Perhaps they should have taken the time to read the entire book/series and then would understand that scene was consistant with the era and NEVER happened again! I also think you should understand that this series has been mis-labeled as a romance. It is much more than that - its an adventure! Its about their lives and how they just seem to fall into the craziest predicaments.
I can hardly wait for the next installment. I check Gabaldon's site constantly in anticipation of the next one.
I've read hundreds of books and this one takes the cake........2007-06-24
There is someone on here that gave this book 2 stars due to views on brutality. Um, if you want to read an excellent book, disregard that review. Yes, there is a scene that he beats Claire, though later he regrets it. Just as in any book, people need to be OPEN-MINDED and not allow their "views" disrupt the enjoyment of reading a book! The book mostly takes place in the 1700's, um, so of course most--if not all--men back then (in Scotland) believed in keeping their wives (who were considered to be men's property--just like a plot of land) in line by physical means. I know Diana Gabaldon might have made a mistake or two in her research in this book--which she admits on her website--but overall I think she did (and continues to do!) an amazing job on the researching she did for this series! Absolutely incredible!
The way they dressed, the way they prepared food, traveled, talked, what people's views were, etc. was very well-written and in much detail.
If you read the entire book, word-by-word, I can almost bet that the story and the beloved characters will stay with you for a very, very, very long time.
A Fan for Life.......2007-05-22
In 1989 I accidentally picked up Dragonfly in Amber without knowing it was the second in a series once I figure that out I have been hooked for life. When I saw this title I thought maybe it was another book. I did not realize it was Outlander with a different title so the reviews helped there, but I have to say anyone who reads these books gets hooked. They are so well written and executed that I cant wait for the next one to come out. Diana Gabaldon is a superb Author and her depictions of history intertwined with her characters leads you on an unimaginable journey filled with tears, laughter,love and hate. WOW What an adventure.
Book Description
A breathtaking collection of 30 exotic cross stitch designs around an Oriental theme. American artist Joan Elliott has found inspiration in the colours and serenity of the Far East. Her wonderful designs have been skillfully adapted for cross stitching by American kit company Design Works Crafts. While some of the featured designs are already available as kits, many are exclusive to this book.
Three of the most beautiful designs portray women in kimonos--Grace, Beauty and Wisdom--echoing the art of the Japanese print. While these may offer a challenge to the more experienced stitcher, there are plenty of smaller designs that offer inspiration to the beginner. The beautifully finished projects include a greetings card collection, pot lids, towel borders, scented sachet, a pillow, drawstring bag, and a silk-backed wall hanging.
Customer Reviews:
What A Great Book!.......2007-03-23
This book is really terrific. Wonderful designs presented with excellent photos, directions and graphs. I look forward to stitching many projects from this fantastic book.
Beautiful but use other fabric.......2007-03-22
The designs are beautiful, but the recommended fabric is Rustico Aida by Zweigart. This fabric is very difficult to get, and not one I'd use for showcase stitching--which these could be. I would recommend stitching these on a linen evenweave.
Simply Intricate.......2005-10-16
Whether a beginning or advanced stitcher, this book has something for everyone.
There's a wide variety of designs included in this book- oriental ladies beautifully adorned in intricate dress, Chinese/Japanese script, florals, and animal designs. The patterns range all sizes, and the book offers a variety of projects (towels, tablecloths, wall hangings,pillows, and sachets).
Not only are these designs beautiful, they are also very easy to follow. All patterns are pre-colored, and although the end results appear intricate, the process of following these designs is quite simple.
Wonderful Book!.......2005-10-10
Looking for a book with beautiful oriental designs? This book is it, and then some! This book has realistic, well done oriental designs. The various sized projects means you can start out with something small and not feel overwhelmed. There are many wonderful designs and the charts are printed larger, making them easy to follow. I've been looking for good oriental designs for a while and I wasn't disappointed in this book at all! I can't wait to start my first project!
Bought off the shelf.......2005-06-07
I got this off the shelf and it turned out I liked it better than I thought I would. It's a very nice book. I like the designs.
Book Description
-From the bestselling author of The Cross Stitcher's Bible
-Each project chapter focuses on a historic sampler style
-Provides ideas for personalizing the sampler designs With this unique guide, crafters will discover how to draw upon historically authentic samplers to create embroidered heirlooms of their own. Each of the more than thirty unique designs is based on the author's own historical sampler collection and is inspired by a popular sampler style from darning, alphabet, and map samplers, to Victorian sayings, band, and spot motif samplers.
Many of the classic designs are complemented by additional counted thread stitches, including drawn and pulled thread techniques, to encourage readers to extend their stitching repertoires. Motifs in each project can also be used for a range of small, quick-to-stitch project for added creative inspiration.
Customer Reviews:
Beautiful Book.......2007-06-18
I am a cross stich freak and I absolutely love this book. Very well done with lots of ideas.
Book Description
Needlework enthusiasts will be thrilled with this exciting addition to our popular Encyclopedia of Art technique series on one of the fastest growing crafts of recent years. This is a complete, full-color reference covering every form of cross-stitch and related counted-thread technique, from ancient traditional work to modern pictorial designs rendered in vivid hues. A wonderful array of stitches from around the world is described in detail, and clearly illustrated with photographs, diagrams, and charts. A trove of ideas and inspiration for beginners and experts alike, this comprehensive volume presents essential information on materials, equipment, planning, finishing, display, and care.
Customer Reviews:
Very Informative.......2005-08-12
I disagree with the previous review. I think this book does a good job of explaining things that beginners need to know. I especially liked the introduction/history of needlework and the many color photographs included. The book discusses materials and equipment needed to start stitching and gives clear instructions with visual aids in how to do the various stitches. It also talks a bit about designing your own work, and finishes as well as caring for your work once it's completed. This is a good resource!
Ok but not super.......2003-10-22
It's a mixed bag book. It's really not for beginners though ti shows lots of stitches and how to make them because it does not have attendant information
about making a project. I'd recommend instead as a beginner book Jo Verso's
book and once you've finished that you may be interested in some of Betty's techniques. If this is your first book you will be disappointed.
Book Description
This golden encyclopedia of needlework complements the library of every cross-stitcher.
2001 designs for every occasion and category of stitching—holidays, alphabets, florals, nature, sports, children, babies, Christmas, animals, and numerous others.
Each motif collection accompanied by a clear and accurate color chart and color key.
Tips for end uses for the designs.
Includes 50 specialty stitch diagrams with instructions.
Cross-stitch tips and specialty stitches to accompany the designs.
Customer Reviews:
Fantastic reference.......2007-08-14
I simply *LOVE* this book. Its a reference I have returned to again and again for little motifs, alphabets, borders... I've made ornamets, full framed wall pieces... its simply excellent. There are pages for each season and holiday (including Hanukkah), state flowers, babies, toys, kitchens, pets, professions, and more. If you enjoy cross stitch, you cannot go wrong with this full-color easy-to-read book. Every graph has a finished photo. Can't praise it enough!
great resource.......2007-07-30
You will refer to this book many times, for every occasion. A MUST have for every cross-stitcher, of every ability
You need this one.......2007-02-11
This has designs for everything. I love it. If you like to cross stitch you need this book. It shows you what each designs looks like finished. It has small designs that can be used anywhere or be used together. I have used it to make towels,bibs, breadcloths, for use with waste canvas. This is the best value ever, I wish they would make another one.
Good for hobbiests.......2007-01-16
Very nice designs, clear notation and easy to follow... it is left up to your creativity to combine and produce nice designs using these patterns.
2001 Cross Stitch Designs.......2007-01-07
Great book ! Fantastic designs. Easy to understand instructions! Great book for beginners and advanced cross stitchers.
Book Description
Small motifs and large pieces suitable for framing offer many options
Cross-stitch projects such as bookmarks, pincushions, pillows, ornaments, and more
A variety of designs please beginners and more experienced cross-stitchers
Cross-stitch primer details basics for beginners
Triple-checked charts guarantee accuracy and success
Materials list and color photographs with each project
Books:
- The Demon-Haunted World: Science as a Candle in the Dark
- The Field of Cultural Production
- The Klutz Book of Paper Airplanes (Klutz)
- The Law of Attraction: The Basics of the Teachings of Abraham
- The Modern West: American Landscapes, 1890-1950 (Museum of Fine Arts)
- The Natural Way to Draw: A Working Plan for Art Study
- The Pastry Queen: Royally Good Recipes from the Texas Hill Country's Rather Sweet Bakery & Cafe
- The Quilter's Homecoming: An Elm Creek Quilts Novel (Elm Creek Quilts Novels)
- The Quilter's Homecoming: An Elm Creek Quilts Novel (Elm Creek Quilts Novels)
- The Quilts of Gee's Bend: Masterpieces from a Lost Place
Books Index
Books Home
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Cross-Stitch
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| Books
The Cross Stitcher's Bible Project Book
The Encyclopedia of Cross-Stitch Techniques: A Step-By-Step Visual Directory, With an Inspirational Gallery of Finished Works
2001 Cross Stitch Designs: The Essential Reference Book ("Better Homes & Gardens")
Cross Stitch Antique Style Samplers
Art Nouveau Cross Stitch: Decorative Designs from the Turn of the Century
