Embroidery Basics A Needle Knowledge Book

Cheryl has just published a new book called Embroidery Basics - and as you may expect from the title, this book can serve as a great introduction to embroidery -inside you'll find a nice assortment of projects to tempt an embroiderer of just about any skill level - Her Supplies and Tools chapter features a mouthwatering assortment of DMC Embroidery Threads, and introduces newbies to important considerations like stitch gauge (yes, that's not just for knitting!) Cheryl's book also features a 30 page guide to Embroidery stitches - her clear illustrations will likely inspire you to try your hand at something new. And there are plenty of projects - 17 in all, a mixture of "surface thread" (or freehand embroidery) and "counted thread" projects. Each project indicates the skill level required, contains clear directions, materials list with color guides, and real-size patterns (so no running back and forth to the copier!) The patterns are a fun assortment of different styles that can suit a variety of tastes. My faves are the Chain Stitch Blossom Pillow, Alphabet Sampler, Freestyle Embroidered Purse, Owl Pincushion, Owl Tablet Cover, and the rather gorgeous Italian Cross Stitch Sampler. I can see myself using the letters and borders for a nice monogram or a silly, snarky cross stitch project. I was so excited about the Chain Stitch pillow project that I couldn't resist giving it a try. I loved how easily you could stitch this up with just 5 shades of DMC Embroidery Floss.