No comments about The Felted Bag Book: 21 Simple Projects for Every Occasion.

5 comments about Weaving Without a Loom.

1. What a fun book. Easy to understand. Good pictures to explain. Would recommend.



2. Interesting book, full of projects I'm likely to try. This one is a keeper and that comes from a weaver who has been at it for awhile



3. This book is a geat How-To-Book for beginners. Great projects that can be used; such as a shawl, hats, belts, several purses, decorative and household items. It provides really nice photographic and text instructions for paper samples, small size yarn practice samples in various weave styles and more. Very practical for the beginner and for teaching others.



4. It's a fun book. I bought it to find out whether I like weaving, without buying an expensive loom (I do.) I've only made 2 of the several projects, and they're definitely doable. What I have found is that the instructions are not quite as complete as one might wish; maybe she's relying on a person's common sense (!). Also, the weaving on a card is fun - but only after you make the card with the itty-bitty cuts - very tedious and sort of annoying. And one more thing: this is NOT weaving without a loom (except for the weaving sticks). It must be the marketing division who named the book without actually reading it. It's mostly weaving on several different homemade looms, one for each project.
   
   I don't care - it's still fun!



5. My mother was a remarkable artist and craftswoman, who taught herself how to spin and weave. I often wish I'd taken the time to sit with her and watch so that I might have learned, too, but as usual with adult children, I was too busy with my own life to do that. Since inheriting my mother's spinning wheel and table loom, however, I'm inspired to learn more. I decided to start with a survey of weaving techniques, and this book, Weaving without a Loom, by Veronica Burningham, seemed like a good place to start.
   
   I have to admit, it covers a little of everything and does so in a logical, practical style. Right from the beginning, the author has the reader working with paper weaving to familiarize with terms, procedures and end products. As many of you may recall from kindergarten and early grade school, paper weaving produced those placemats and baskets one made for Mother's Day and other similar holidays in "art" class. Beyond this, the reader also learns about "tabby" and "twill" weaving patterns and what happens with colors. In examining the book a little further, one also learns that the paper with the slots in it is a "warp," while the strips of paper (or ribbon) woven through it is a "weft." Technical terminology can't get much simpler.
   
   After this initial exposure to weaving on its most basic level, the author introduces a variety of techniques, requiring nothing more expensive than sticks, paper forms, embroidery hoops, dinner forks, and picture frames. At each stage, the reader gets closer to weaving on a formal loom and the principles of "sheds" "heddles" and beaters. The products that the beginner is able to complete are remarkable for their individuality and beauty. The tam made on a piece of cardstock, and the carrying bag made on similar material are truly lovely and should lend themselves to individual experiments, even at the beginner level. While little hands may need some help with making weaving equipment, most of the woven work should be very easy for them to manage and should produce pleasing results. Although at times the instructions are a little confusing, the color photos show clearly what the author is trying to teach, so that anyone can enjoy the craft. Learning some of the terminology and techniques at this basic level should help the more adventurous move to more complicated forms of weaving like inkle and table or floor loom work.
   
   I'd recommend this book to any school system, school or public library or children's room. The museum in the city where I live has a family room where children can work with some of the media that artists do. This would be a wonderful addition for such a room in any museum. It also minimizes the need for expensive equipment to teach the art. The author and publisher give express permission to reproduce designs for individual use and for charity purposes, so copyright is not an issue.

No comments about Mother & Baby Animals Cross Stitch.

5 comments about Crochet Squared: 30 Easy Crochet Projects Made from Simple Squares.

1. I own a lot of crochet books, and a few days ago I reorganized them in the bookcase and realized once again that "Crochet Squared" is one of my absolute favorites. I am surprised at the number of people who rate it so low - it has suggestions that are relatively easy for the novice crocheter, and beautiful and creative ideas for someone with more experience. It is inspirational to me.



2. I bought this book expecting the garments to be in interesting novelty yarns and based on square and rectangle shapes, beautiful photos and certainly, that is what you get, hence three stars. But what you do not get are well written or complete instructions [there is some serious errata too].
   
   It is almost impossible to buy the yarns suggested today, and since there are no substitutions listed, other than very general suggestions in a small chart at the end, you are pretty much on your own figuring out a uniform gauge and hook size.
   
   The photos are terrific... the pieces well presented, but there is a disconnect between the instructions and what you see in the finished garments. While every single item's instructions call for single crochet using large hooks, several of the photographs seem to show other, elongated stitches, the cover shawl among them. I experimented, but could not duplicate the look of the long stitches with the hooks, yarns and stitches called for.
   
   Also, there are not really 30 projects. There are many duplications, just in alternate yarns with minimal instructions for those. For example, the 3 lovely looking "shrawls" have instructions for just 1, with the others only described by yarn colors, finished measurement for one of them [not the other] and main yarn. No yarn amounts, no hook sizes, nothing else. What's worse, the master instructions are incomplete. It says to make 2, but there's not one word about joining or seaming the two pieces together. To confuse things further, there are no instructions or yarn amounts listed for the single yarn Ocean Mist. Orange You Glad says you only make 1 seamless piece out of many yarns. What about Ocean Mist? It doesn't say.
   
   An experienced crocheter can probably figure out how to make the projects work, but beginners, beware.



3. I was pleasantly surprised at how great the book was. This is the first crochet book I have ever owned because I could never understand how to read a pattern book. The book walked me through picking the correct needles, understanding the language, and selecting optional yarns. I felt at ease with the lesson in the beginning and the suggestion to start with easier projects. By the end I felt like I could tackle any project in the book.
   
   The one thing I will say is sometimes I did not agree with the color or yarn choices. I like how at the end of the book there were suggestions of other yarns to select to achieve the same results. I have to say I was just excited to learn some new stitches.



4. I was disappointed with this book. The pictures are pretty and the colors are pretty that is about all I liked about this book. Out of the 30 easy projects I counted only about 6 that were made from SQUARES the rest were strips/rectangles. I was expecting designs that were put together like you would a granny square project. In other words make a bunch of squares and then connect them to make something. The other thing that bothered me was the way they counted 30 projects. Many projects/patterns were shown in different colors or yarn. They counted each as a separate project because it was made with a different color or yarn.
   I wouldn't recommend this book.
   
   Sueln



5. This is a great book! It makes crocheting look mod and hip, instead of something for "little old ladies". All of the designs are elegantly simple to execute and simply elegant to wear, so it's fun for beginners. I also love the opening introduction to crocheting hooks, yarns and technique.

4 comments about Braiding Rugs: A Storey Country Wisdom Bulletin A-03.

1. I ordered this publication because I was interested in making my own area floor rug using my own materials and colors, etc. This publication tells you how to braid your material, and then how to join into a shape to make a rug. It was a surprise to me that you can actually use the rug as your are making the rug....an idea that never occurred to me, but one that makes sense, especially when it gets very large. I enjoyed the book. Glad I purchased. Denise in Montana



2. I am very happy with the information in this book. I had done a little rug braiding on my own but just couldn't get it quite right. This book gave me the fine tuning I needed.



3. Braiding Rug: A Storey Country Wisdom is full of expertise and just basic needed knowledge for rug braiding.
   
   The book was in excellent condition and came sooner than the estimated time.



4. Short, simple, to the point and informative. I can't imagine you need much more information. Not full of fluff like most craft books.

3 comments about Arts & Crafts Needlepoint: 25 Needlepoint Projects.

1. I'm a big fan of Arts & Crafts architecture. I've made pilgrimages to the Gamble House in Pasadena and the William Morris museum in London. I've collected books on arts and crafts textiles, bungalow homes and more. So, given that I also like needlework (though my main theme is quilting), how could I resist a needlepoint book in the same genre? Well, for several years I _could_, because I am a rank beginner.
   
   On the other hand, I found a copy of Beth Russell's Arts & Crafts Needlepoint book on sale, and figured that I could use it as "inspiration" even if I wasn't up to actually doing one of her pieces (needlework without preprinted designs can scare me). I already knew that her work is beautifully designed; during that trip to London, I purchased a 6" version of her Morris "strawberry thief" needlepoint kit. (And it didn't turn out half bad! All mistakes are my own ineptitude, not hers, I assure you.)
   
   To my great surprise, this book is a better introduction than I expected. I haven't actually done any of the projects, so perhaps I'm speaking with misplaced self-confidence, but her how-to photos make it clear how to do a tent stitch and the instructions on "mounting for framing" have me halfway through getting that older project onto the wall. I'm not promising that I'll zoom through any of these projects, but Russell makes me *want* to.
   
   Her idea of Arts & Crafts designs is primarily William Morris, along with William deMorgan and their contemporaries. These don't incorporate many American adopters of the movement (such as Greene & Greene, though there's one Tiffany window-inspired design), but that's okay, because her stuff is beautiful. If I *don't* use this as anything except an "ooooh, pretty!" coffee table book, that's fine.
   
   Among the designs are three variations on the strawberry thief, two Lodden versions, Acanthus, Bird & Lily, a trellis design from Morris' garden at Red House... well, lots of choices. If you're a William Morris fan you'll recognize them.
   
   The projects themselves range in size from fairly small -- several are 12-14" square -- to pretty darned large (a rug that's 75"x48"). They are well photographed, both in their final form (such as chair upholstery) and in the actual pattern (though I'm obviously less trustworthy on the details). The material list includes everything you need for the project (size 20 tapestry needle, 14-count single canvas, Appleton crewel wool: light blue green (641) 1 skein...) and the "order of stitching" points out a few things to watch for ("you will find there is room for seven rows...").
   
   It's a lovely book. Obviously it's more than suitable for any needlepoint fan, but anyone who is interested in the Arts & Crafts movement will enjoy this book, too.



2. This book is a new edition of "Victorian Needlepoint". It has new pictures, and more importantly, new computer-generated charts. If you have seen the old one, the charts were hand drawn and indecipherable in places. This edition provides clear charts so you don't have to guess which color is used, or where the stitches fall. And the designs are beautiful and timeless. I have the old edition and just got this one...a must have for needlepoint fans!



3. Boy, was I angry when I got this book. It's "sold" as a new book but in fact, it's a softcover version of an older book. AND, they changed the title!! This book merits NO star but the system doesn't allow you to select 0.

2 comments about Turning Strips & Squares Into Table Sets.

1. Had I seen the inside of this book before purchasing it, I would not have purchased it. I bought this book because I liked the picture on the front and I wanted some new ideas for placemats. Unfortunately, I did not find anything outstanding in this book. Most of the projects are so easy that a seasoned sewer could look at the pictures and make the item with no pattern. There are a few projects included (table runner and potholders) that are raw edge applique. They are very unappealing. I would never waste my time making them. They are simply various size circles cut out and appliqued on top of each with a raw edge. The circles in her project picture appear to be cut by hand as they look uneven and sloppy. I probably should have returned this book.



2. This is a very practical book to make home decor items. The pictures jump off the page and make you want to begin all the projects at once. Instructions are clear and easy to follow. End results are exactly as pictured. Wonderful book!!

4 comments about Punchneedle The Complete Guide.

1. A great book to explain what needlepunch is, the basic techniques, and the supplies needed. Also has a brief history of neeldepunch and its cultural origins. It has beautiful examples of what you can do. A few patterns are included, but not that many. A great book, especially because there are so few punchneedle books available.



2. Truth is I haven't really used this yet,about 2 years behind in projects I want to complete, so just briefly looked it over--looks good at first glance



3. I first discovered needlepunch about 20 years ago. I ordered (directly from Marinda) her first small needlepunch book, and learned a lot from it. This book covers everything you need to know, and then some. It's excellent for a beginnner, in that she really spends time (and has pictures) of how to match the fabric and needle size. That is important. She also shows how to sculpt the finished work to get dimension and texture. There is something here for everyone. I am very impressed. I have purchased a few needlepunch books over the years, and this is the best I've ever seen. The directions are very clear, and the many many pictures are so helpful. Can't say enough.
   THANKS!



4. Any needlecraft collection strong in embroidery guides will welcome PUNCHNEEDLE: THE COMPLETE GUIDE, providing an overview of materials, tools, and techniques including working with novelty threads and creating special effects. Nine embroidery projects on a range of surfaces included a photo album cover, napkins and Christmas ornaments in this highly recommended guide.

5 comments about The Big Book of Cross-Stitch Designs: Over 900 Simple-to-Sew Decorative Motifs.

1. This book is filled with a variety of patterns and designs. The patterns range from simple and sweet to complex and detailed. The designs range from country to modern. With so many designs, it should be easy to find the exact pattern you're looking for. I'm very happy that I purchased this book.



2. I was hesitant to get this book because of the negative review, so I went to the bookstore to check it out in person, and I loved it so much I purchased it right then and there! I am fairly to new to cross stitch, and I have not found this book to be hard to follow at all. I have this book as well as the other book that the other reviewer mentioned, the Better Homes and Gardens Book, and I have to say that there really is no comparison. To compare the 2 books is not really comparing apples to apples---the Better HOmes and Gardens book is mini motifs, and it is an excellent book, but so is this book, and it is not filled with mini motifs but larger designs that could go on pillows, etc. This book has truely beautiful patterns with everything from flowers to alphabets and everything in between. Each project has a full color photograph with a project idea, as well as suggestions for other project ideas. A lot of cross stitch books can be quite kitschy, but I have not found this book to be kitschy at all---many of the patterns are very elegant and modern. Sure there are some cutesy patterns, but those are the patterns that are meant to be cutesy --- like baby and children stuff. I love the variety, the photos, the clear diagrams, everything about this book. Another wonderful feature of this book is that for every project there is a list with DMC and Anchor floss#'s, and also a table that tells you what size your project will be stitched on different size fabrics. That is so awesome! LOVE THIS BOOK!



3. This book is worth getting only if you are an intermediate/advanced stitcher who is interested in the pattern library in the back of the book. There are some nice patterns in there, especially floral, but nothing you can't find some other place. HOWEVER: they don't give you stitch count for any of the designs, only 'design size' on different fabric counts (like 25!@!), so you'd first have to convert it or count it yourself if using any regular sized fabric. I recommend getting it from a library, or just skipping it altogether.
   
   A *much* better reference book/pattern library is "2001 Cross Stitch Designs: The Essential Reference Book" (Better Homes & Gardens Crafts) by Better Homes and Gardens (Paperback - Sep 7, 2004)
   
   My biggest problem with this book is the first half - all the text. Obviously written in the UK, this book pretends to be instructive and comprehensive but leaves a ton of stuff out! Seems to be a tie-in with the materials of only a certain chosen few manufacturers, everything else is apparently not 'worth mentioning'. If this was a David & Charles publication I'd understand, but this is Readers Digest people! Not worth spending your money on if you are looking for a real survey of what is out there today, especially in the U.S. - which is all also available world-wide through online shops.
   
   The sections lacking the most?
   --Threads: limited types listed - no mention of the variety of silks, overdyeds and other specialty fibers (bamboo, etc.) out there.
   --Fabrics: limited types listed - no mention of the various evenweaves (everything is either aida or linen - no lugana, jobelin, etc. Tells readers that aida is only available in 2 counts (it comes in five.) Absolutely no mention of the overdyed fabricss available from established firms like Silkweavers, PictureThisPlus, etc.
   --Needles: doesn't tell you all the sizes or types (petites, gold-plated, etc.) available
   --Frames: doesn't mention Qsnaps or a bunch of the different kinds/sizes of scroll frames
   --Tools: No mention of tools like magnetic needleminders, Star DeTailor, tacky bob, seam ripper, thread snips, tweezers, needle puller, FrayCheck, etc. All the little things that can make stitching even easier.
   
   Besides the lack of information about products not being sold by their 'sponsors' (listed in the back of the book), I didn't like some of the instructions either.
   
   My biggest beef was with the fact that they instruct you to measure and select fabric only 2 inches larger in each direction than the design. That is terrible! Leaves you with only 1 INCH on any side of the design. Generally accepted is a MINIMUM of 2 inches on each side (so 4 inches larger), while most stitchers go with a 3 inch per side increase (6 inches larger than the design.) I would hate to be a beginning stitcher following these directions! You have no room to put the design in the frame to work it (even in-hand would have a problem), and absolutely no room for error and very little for framing allowance.
   
   Argh!
   As you can see, I pretty much detest this book.
   Definitely don't reward the publisher by buying it, there are much better ones out there - for both beginners and pattern libraries!
   
   For the most comprehensive online source of 'how to' for beginners, go to: http://home.comcast.net/~kathydyer/



4. Just beautiful. Im making projects already. Big and little, huge color charts color coded. Huge book, lots to do. I've been cross stitching for 25 years and I can tell you this is a winner.



5. I checked this out from the library to get some new ideas for gifts. The designs are gorgeous-- lots of color pictures of each design and how they can be used as gifts. Most of the designs are fairly simple (or quick) even for the beginner, but are also beautiful and well-illustrated.
   
   If you are a beginner, (I'm an intermediate stitcher)get this book! I learned some new stitches I didn't understand how to do. Now I'm going to buy it!

5 comments about Block Magic, Too: Over 50 New Blocks from Squares and Rectangles.

1. i just love this book-ir has been shared and used a lot in my quilt class--just love it.



2. I have used both of the Block Magic books on several row quilts. The directions are clear and you can choose the block size you want from 4" through 12". The quilt layouts she suggests make lovely gifts or a wall hanging for yourself. Enjoy



3. This book gives you so many options, good instructions, well worth the money.



4. directions are easy to follow. Makes interesting shapes and especially good for children's projects.



5. I decided to purchase this book since I liked the first Block Magic. I thought it may be too much of a duplication to the first, so I planned to give this book to my sister. Well, I just ordered another book to keep. The blocks are different and I am very pleased with color choices in the pictures. I have a hard time selecting colors for quilts and then putting the blocks into a pleasing quilt presentation. This book has more good ideas. Another wonderfull addition to my quilt book library. My sister and I are planning to trade finished blocks thru the mail, so much fun!