5 comments about Doodle Stitching: Fresh & Fun Embroidery for Beginners.

1. I first requested this book from my library to see if I liked it, and I immediately ordered it! I love the projects. Even though there is not a "pattern" for every project, you can enlarge a photo in the book on a copier and using a transfer pencil and tracing paper. The stitching instructions are nicely done as well, including actual photos of the stitches, instead of illustrations. Enjoy!



2. I bought this book over the Christmas holidays because I have always liked the look of embroidery and I thought the designs were really cute. I am no crafter, I don't know how to sew ( though I have wielded a needle to mend things), or knit, or crochet and I had never embroidered. But I bought this book, some basic supplies (6 in hoop, embroidery needles, thread) and set to work on an old pillowcase and I taught myself all of the stitches presented in the beginning of the book in about 2 hours. The instructions were mostly quite clear and the illustrations helped, I had no problem picking it up. For my first project, I picked the stuffed felt owl, and I was able to finish it over the course of two days. I followed the directions and I had great results, and was happy that I could start and finish a small project. I was really pleased with the results, and now am feeling ambitious enough to tackle the lap quilt for a friend's baby. This is an excellent book for beginners and has really inspired me.



3. I received this book for Christmas. It is ok at best. I was very sad, as I thought it would have transferable patterns to tear out, like the Sublime Stitching books. There weren't many projects, and they were just ok. I was really excited because of the pictures, and reviews.



4. Bought this for my daughter for Christmas. I browsed through it and I'm sure she's going to love it. Definitely for beginners...



5. I grew up on counted cross stitch. I loved the meditative little XXXXX patterns I made, but ARGH, what if I don't like DMC 307? Do I really have to follow the pattern? And what if the stupid pattern turns out to be WRONG?!
   
   But oh, embroidery. How do I love thee? Let me STOP counting the ways and just stitch for the joy of stitching! Aimee Ray introduced me to free-form stitching at its best. She gave me the tools and some fun ideas, but if I don't like a split stitch or just don't feel like chain stitching today, I don't have to! The Embroidery Police (*cough* or Mom) won't come knocking down my door!
   
   The book is full of close-up photographs of projects, so it's easy to see how she varied colors and stitches to achieve certain looks. My favorite page is 13 where she shows the same pattern (the bird on the bottom left of the front cover) done three ways to illustrate how different stitches can affect the final product.
   
   My only criticism is that there isn't a discussion on needle size... perhaps I'll discover that I only need one type of needle, but can I really do satin and denim with the same thing? I'm dubious. That said, it's not enough for me to dock this book even half a star. Some folks have complained that the book doesn't contain the instructions/patterns for some of the cute, complete doodle projects she's done. Yes, you can get them from her [...] store, but I think including them in the book would've defeated her purpose - make your own doodles and embroider those instead!

5 comments about Embroidered Effects: Projects and Patterns to Inspire Your Stitching (Sublime Stitching).

1. I am an avid cross stitcher but really wanted to expand my embroidery techniques - this book is perfect. Basic embroidery techniques are explored, both stitches and how to transfer, types of fabric/needles/floss. And there are plenty of projects. I am looking forward to completing one of the samplers to improve my skills and create a project that I would love to display. I am giving it 4/5 stars only because the Doodles embroidery book is similar with patterns that I love even more, but I am glad to have both.



2. I just received this book last week and I love it. The instructions on stitches are worth purchasing the book alone. My mother has been embroidering forever and she loved the stitch instructions so much that she wants to steal my copy. I love her, but I guess I'll have to buy her one too because she's not getting mine. She was self taught, so she had some standard stitches, but she liked the variety & interesting combos that the book provides. Plus, there are some great ideas for projects and fun patterns. More than anything, the book provides some inspiration for not-so-traditional embroidery and some witty copy. This is definitely "not your grandma's embroidery."



3. I started embroidering last year, and I learned from Jenny's stitch it kit. I made a tea towel for my boss, who loved it. A year later, I own the craft pad, the sublime stitching book, multiple patterns from her website, and I just received this book for Christmas.
   There are some recycled patterns, which I knew about before I asked for the book, so I wasn't disappointed. I wanted it more for ideas. Which for me, it delivered. Learning on my own, and only embriodering for a short time, I wanted to look at the projects, and get my own ideas.
   Thus far, I have done the embroidered cameo project, exactly as is, and I have done versions of the tattooed sleeve, the bluebird jeans, and the custom western shirt. All have turned out beautifully, and I've picked up some new stitches, and skills from the book.
   The pictures are nice, I wish they would have included close ups of some of them, but I didn't need them to finish the projects.
   I liked that the book just wasn't, oh take a shirt, and embrioder it. There's some ideas I wouldn't have thought about on my own, such as tracing an existing pattern on fabric, that's super simple, and yet, makes such a difference.
   If you like Jenny Hart, I think you'll enjoy this book. Just beware if you have most of her books, there's a lot of repeats. I myself, didn't care, the book was worth it to me for the ideas it gave me.



4. I love this book! From the graphics, to the spiral binding, to the writing style, projects, and LOVE the tear out transferable patterns! Great book and good, clear instructions!



5. First of all, I have to say that this book is much larger than it appears online -- it's a big, heavy, gorgeous Chronicle presentation that's about 8x10" and almost two inches thick. It's a well-made delicious feast!
   
   The graphics and photography are more delicious and rich than usual, even for a Chronicle book. I really have to applaud the art director. The photographs are full-bleeds and the design makes it easy to read and well-paced.
   
   This is important because there is SO much information in this whopper! I've done a couple of books myself, and mine are much shorter on text, so I am especially impressed with the amount of research and writing that clearly must have gone into this work. It's so apparent from start to finish that an incredible amount of thought went into it. I also really enjoyed the tone of this book compared to most craft books, because it's not overly done. It's obvious that the author took great care and a lot of time to craft each chapter carefully. The result is a very enjoyable read that conveys just the right amount of information without being overbearing or verbose.
   
   Some of the projects really took my breath away: the photo transfer portrait, the glow-in-the-dark chandelier magnets, the cameo shirt... these are obviously some gems that Jenny's been saving for just the right moment, and here it is! And of course the book is designed so well that it includes pages of ready-to-go transfers in the back for all the patterns and a spacious (and cute) pouch inside the front cover to store them after use (so you can use them again and again).
   
   I have to say I'm thoroughly impressed. I've followed Jenny's work since she started Sublime Stitching, and I feel like this book is the pinnacle of her career to date. I also felt, as I was reading it for the first time, that this is bound to be a classic because it's the most well-thought-out, well-put-together tome on embroidery I've ever seen.
   
   Seriously. Don't overlook this one -- it's so much more impressive in person, wait 'til you open your Amazon box and see how gorgeous it is. You won't be disappointed.

5 comments about Alabama Stitch Book: Projects and Stories Celebrating Hand-Sewing, Quilting and Embroidery for Contemporary Sustainable Style.

1. This book opened new doors of creativity and inspiration for me. I used to want to sew clothes but the typical patterns seemed so fussy and tight. Finding this book helped me see that the actual pattern for the clothing could be simple and your own creativity and design sensibility could be what makes the piece fly! I feel liberated by the style and techniques in this book - I hate to stop working on the project that I currently have underway.



2. This book inspired me with new ideas, especially about working with recycled T Shirts, which I have been doing. The methods she has created could be used in other ways, you could personalize them. There is one part of the instructions
   that I can't completely make sense of, maybe just me, the rest are good.



3. I haven't had the time to make any of the projects in this book, but I can't wait! The corset patterns are amazing!



4. I purchased this book as a gift for my sister who is a talented craftsperson. The book was beautiful and had many unusual sewing projects that she has said she will enjoy making. The instructions looked easy to follow and the photographs were beautiful.



5. The Alabama Stitch book by Natalie Chanin is a breathtakingly beautiful book. With gorgeous photography of each project and step by step details as well as actual full size patterns this book was a steal. It contains examples of Southern hand sewing techniques and projects and patterns for all ages. I am in love with this book and keep it on my coffee table for inspiration and all to look at. I have started two projects already and use both the book and the Alabama Stitch book web site for inspiration.

5 comments about Sew Darn Cute: 30 Sweet & Simple Projects to Sew & Embellish.

1. This is a great book for those of us who love crafting but aren't that creative on our own and need ideas to get us going. Some of her projects are a little too 'cutsy' for my decorating style, but I've taken the idea and made it my own. Great book with intermediate project goers (I don't think I'd rate this a beginner book). I will say it has a little too much embroidery for me (since I'm not interested in it) but I've just skipped that or improvised where I needed to.
   
   Beautiful pictures and fun inspiration for crafter/sewers.



2. I really enjoy the projects in this book. I made the cake applique in the book the first week i received it, it inspired me to get my fabric out and sew!



3. I was really disappointed with this book.
   
   Although it was filled with beautiful photographs, the designs and patterns themselves were so totally elementary that I am pretty sure you could google and find a free pattern for everything featured. For example, sewing coasters? It's 2 pieces of square fabric sewn together and then top-stitched.
   
   Perhaps a VERY new and beginner level seamstress might like this, or a very young teenager, but to have an entire page dedicated to cutting a letter out of fabric and sewing it onto a white tee shirt seemed like a cop out.



4. This how-to book is certainly cute. You might want to reach for your toothbrush after finishing it! I was really impressed with the variety of projects. Too often, crafting books have one or two good projects and the rest are filler. Not so with Sew Darn Cute. Just about everything is something I would make (I'll pass on the skinny scarf and the fabric cuffs, thanks) and it all is very doable for the beginning sewing fan.
   
   Like most other sewing guides, there is a how-to section that covers the basics of sewing. The instructions themselves are clearly written and well-photographed. There are clothing projects (the embellished cardigan is great), kids' items (square bear is wonderful; I wish there were more Japanese inspired projects), home items and crafty things (crochet cover, needle book). All the colors chosen are super sweet in pastels and pinks but those looking for edgier combos could certainly adapt the selections.
   
   I would recommend this as a good all-over project guide for those newer to sewing and looking for adorable, retro projects. Very fun.



5. This book provides some really nice basic patterns and ideas with the ability to embellish to your own taste. The pictures are just wonderful and I really loved the color pallete she used.

5 comments about Sublime Stitching: Hundreds of Hip Embroidery Patterns and How-To.

1. I really love this book. Between this book, the author's (Jenny Hart) other books & her website ([...]) I have so many ideas. The book has a lot of good patterns from alphabets, scrolls, borders and themes (baby, cocktails, food, cars, kitchen, flames, flowers, dogs, cats, music, birds). The instructions in the book are easy to understand. The author gives lots of tips, which will answer most of the questions that you come across while working on projects. I am very happy with my purchase. I plan on collecting her other books as well.



2. Bought this for my daughter who has taken an interest in stitching. The patterns are also very nice and not too difficult for a beginner.



3. This is great for beginners like me and gives lots of helpful tips for your success!!



4. I was wondering after reading reviews of others on here whether I had made the right choice in purchasing this book since I found a lot of mixed reviews. I had never embroidered before and was looking for easy to follow directions and patterns to get started that were not the usual craft store finds. I got every penny worth buying this book! My first thought opening the box was that the book is very well constructed with a sprial bound spine. Also the pockets inside the book are great for storing the patterns after you cut them since each pattern can give you up to 9 uses. The directions are fun to read with her humor twisted in and very easy to follow, which you don't always find in a book. I found the patterns ironed on with great ease. I had my first project finished in one evening and had a great time. Some of the patterns in the book are from the web site and others are different and simpler to follow which is great for a beginner like me. I will have many hours of fun learning how to fine tune my new found hobby compliments of Jenny Hart! Hope you all find this helpful and inspiring to start your new hobby with Subliome Stitching!



5. This book taught me how to embroider, and got me addicted to not only embroidery but to Jenny Hart's designs on her website. The first 48 pages of this book is a How-To section with some really beautiful photos of sitched up projects that are really inspirational. The rest of this book are the iron on patterns. The patterns themselves are really nice, now that I have become acquainted with Jenny Hart's designs on her website, I can see why her fans were disappointed with this book because whereas you can find edgy patterns on her website, this book does not feature any of the edginess. To me however, that did not detract from my enjoying the patterns in this book. You will find transfers for: flowers, roses, leaves, vines, butterflies, swans, other birds, borders, dogs, cats, babies, storks, baby items (bottles, booties, strollers, rattles, etc), moons, planets, UFO's, rockets, planes, cars, trucks, flames, dancers, maracas, drums, drinks, fruits, desserts, flatware, breakfast, tea pots, teacups, teabags, paper shades, eyes, lips, words (baby, sweet, wish, love, hello, darling), stars, curliques, musical notes, guitars, saxophones, banners, 2 alphabets (upper and lower case).
   
   The transfers are black ink and are reusable. The book is spiral bound with pockets in the front and back. All in all I really love this book! I learned how to embroider from this book, and have really enjoyed the wide variety of traditional, yet still fun, patterns. It has turned me on to Jenny Hart's patterns, and I have ordered many of her edgier patterns from her site.
   
   Cons of this book: I wish there were more photographed examples of projects. I also wish there were more intructions for more stitches--there are about 15 stitches , but I wish she would have included instructions for the herringbone sitch, fern stitch, etc..... Lastly, as others have said the claim that this book contains "hundreds" of patterns may be a bit misleading for some--while there are hundreds of images, this count includes many repeats in varying sizes or facing a different direction. There are about 100 unique images plus the alphabets.
   
   I will say that I also have the stitch-it-kit, and if you are trying to decide between this book and the kit, definitely get this book.

5 comments about Embroidery Machine Essentials: How to Stabilize, Hoop and Stitch Decorative Designs.

1. The book was in excellent condition as stated by owner. THe book itself is a wonderful reference and teaching guide. The book was received in a timely manner. I highly recommend this book for new machine embroidery students.



2. Be sure you notice that this book is a 2001 book. It is very dated (floppies instead of USB cables). Skip it--don't waste your money. Perhaps the author could issue another version...



3. Absolutely a must for anyone who wants a reference book or is just starting out, it will become well used. Lots of ideas plus some new embroidery patterns. I highly recommend it.



4. I am a beginner to embroidery, but not to sewing. I recently purchased the Singer Futura 250 (awesome) and bought this as a companion book after reading great reviews. It wasn't what I expected. It looked like it was from the 80s/90s, didn't feel up to date. The "free embroidery designs" looked a bit cheesy/cheap feel. I was actually able to figure out my embroidery machine on my own with the product manual and can search the internet (for free) for any future questions I have. While some people might like the book, it wasn't for me and was a waste of my money. I returned it.



5. Great for beginners in machine embroidery. Has all the basic info to get started and some great project ideas as well. Good reference guide for use of stabilizers. It's worth it!

5 comments about Piece in the Hoop: 20 Quilt Projects + 40 Machine Embroidery Designs.

1. This book is great. The directions are easy to follow and the projects are small and fun to do.



2. This is an advertisement without the specifics that machine embroiders need. What are the most popular formats; SEW JEF ART ? What is the size of the stitch field required for the designs; 4X4, 6X8, 5X7, 8X8 or other? I have used these techniques with great success from other sources but I would not purchase this without knowing these answers in advance. I have wasted money in the past on designs that were too big for my machine and all the books with design CDs are not returnable.



3. This is what quilting/embroidery books should all be about! Great projects, designs and instructions included. This book is a must have for those with
   embroidery machines!



4. I began to use these designs the minute I got the book! It is very easy to follow, and the designs are superb!



5. I did not know that this book would be almost all quilting project, but it is very good, and great photos

5 comments about Bead Embroidery.

1. This is a step-by-step guide to making the design on the cover of the book, with the stitches, use of the beads, and bead selection clearly explained. Great for a beginner or someone who wishes to polish skills.



2. Beautiful photos of bead embroidery. Good for a beginner - I was looking for a more advanced book, though. If you are new to embroidery or want good illustrations of basic stitches, this book is great. As an experienced stitcher, it was not as advanced as I had hoped.



3. This book is just jam packed from cover to end with beautiful, realistic, and useful, Beaded embroidery componets and ideas... Yukiko Ogura has wonderful information, tips and step by step pictures. Beautiful book to have .



4. A nice little book. I would say this is one that you would check out at the library for inspiration but not really a keeper.



5. Really a great little book for those of us that are just starting out with this. The only thing it doesn't provide is the fabric and needle. Clear photography and excellent display. Well worth the price.

5 comments about Elegant Stitches: An Illustrated Stitch Guide & Source Book of Inspiration.

1. I am a member of the Embroiderer's Guild of America. One of the members in the Chapter was teaching a class one night and very highly recommended this book. I took a look at hers on the spot and decided to get a copy for myself and another stitching buddy. My mother, who is also no stitching slouch couldn't believe her eyes. We had NO idea that there are SSSSSOOOOOO many different stitches to use, mix and match to create treasures and heirlooms.



2. Must be the Gemini in me... this book is quite similar to "Floral Stitches" -- enough different that I was OK with the purchase and addition to my Library. I should follow my own advice and go to library or bookstore to preview purchases.



3. This book is a must-have for all needlework enthusiasts. Excellently put together it takes you through all aspects of making your stitches do what you want them to do. Project ideas throughout. This is a stitchers bible!



4. The book arrived early and in good shape. It was just what my daughter wanted for Christmas.



5. This book is a must for any crazy quilter. I love the size and the fact that it can lie flat open when using. The drawings are large, clear and easy to follow. Even has directions for left handed. The color photos are wonderful "eye candy". This book sparked so many new ideas for me. It is a MUST HAVE.

5 comments about Digitizing Made Easy: Create Custom Embroidery Designs Like a Pro.

1. I bought the book because I was told it was the ONLY book to purchase for a beginner. The first half struck me as Mr. Deere being rather self impressed and the second half assumed you knew more than a beginner would know. I did find the DVD good but I'm still quite puzzled about how to actually begin. Perhaps I'm simply a hands on learner. Disappointing.



2. At last a book on digitizing for the digitizing inpared. This book is written for the beginner.



3. The book contains a lot of good basic information about digitizing. After reading it, I'm ready to move to my software. I undertand the principles of digitizing better, so I'll have a better idea of what my software is doing when I used it. Worth the money.



4. This is a good book, but not for beginners. It is very hard to follow without a drawing pad.



5. This book is jammed full of information about Digitizing. One would think it would be dry and uninteresting. Not true at all. It's actually very interesting reading. And teaches you things about the process that you might not even have thought about. And the fact that it includes a CD with some nice embroidery designs is certainly a nice bonus as well. Great book for anyones library thats interested in embroidery designs.....