I'm going to be brutally honest in saying that I have read a lot of embroidery books and I am super hard to impress in this area because there are a lot on the market. This book, however, massively exceeded my expectations and I was utterly impressed from start to finish!
It is a smaller size book which makes it the perfect accompaniment to take with you whether that be on holiday, the work commute, the sofa, by the bed, or anywhere else you'd like to stitch! Whilst it is small in stature, it definitely is not lacking!
In part 1, the embroidery essentials are covered including fabrics (and how different fabrics will react to stitches differently), threads (stranded, tapestry, wool, metallic, silk), needles, scissors, embroidery hoops, marking tools, transfer papers and more. It has top tips, illustrations, written text, and easily accessible information.
Part 2 then guides you through basic techniques such as preparing the fabric, transferring your designs, securing your fabric in the hoop, best practice for using your thread, threading your needle, securing your thread (with different options including knots, waste knots, filling methods), and finishing off your embroidery. Each subsection is clearly presented with a heading, subheading, written text and images (where needed).
It is truly wondrous reading through the book and seeing stitches that you think you know so well being used in such beautiful and creative ways.
-- Naomi Clarke * naomialice.co.uk *
I'm a textile artist and teach embroidery in some of my classes. I can see this book being a great recommendation for any of my students who don't have any previous experience, and for those who need a reminder.
Experienced stitchers will enjoy the look and feel of the book, but may get less from it in the longer term. As is says on the cover, the author focusses on her favourite, and most used stitches. So be aware that this is NOT a stitch dictionary for expanding your stitching repertoire if you already know the basics. It doesn't pretend to be that, and there are plenty of those about. This book fits into it's own niche perfectly. A pocket-sized embroidery primer that will travel with you while you build your skills and confidence.
-- Nicky Prys-Jones * Customer Review *
Costume designer and embroidery aficionado Bavois's book is sure to attract newcomers to the field of needle arts. She covers embroidery essentials, including types of fabrics, needles, threads, hoops, and transfer papers. Her book, written in precise language, teaches basic techniques, such as preparing the fabric, threading needles, and fastening off. There's also decorative advice and a visual stitch guide that demonstrates how to create running, stem, back, blanket, and cross stitches with French and bullion knots.
This handbook's instructions progress in complexity. It includes illustrations and photographs that are clear with easy-to-understand directions. The last part of the book shows more advanced techniques, such as using applique s, embroidering a T-shirt, and incorporating and applying beads.
VERDICT: A well-organized and thoughtful embroidery guide. Great for beginners wishing to learn an exciting new skill. Also for experienced embroiderers who need or want to brush up on their techniques and improve their skills.
* Library Journal *
What a super little book. Yes it has lots of stitches but there are basic techniques as well. Lovely illustrations not just of the stitches but the stitch within a small project just to get you inspired.
I think the smaller physical size of the book makes it easy to pack with your project when travelling as well. We all need reminders of how to do things sometimes.
Perfect for those with a little knowledge and want more.
-- Claire Madder * Customer Review *