50 of 52 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars
The guide I turn to every time..., Feb 11 2003
By Jennifer Messer - Published on Amazon.com
This review is from: The Cross Stitcher's Bible (Paperback)
The Cross Stitcher's Bible is the guide book I turn to every time I start a new project. I would recomend this book to EVERY needlework worker wheather beginer or experianced. There is basic, clear, compleate information on counted cross stitch, some embroidery work, hardanger, pulled and drawn thread and a varity of speciallty stitches. There is also a host of information on chosing fabrics, threads, how to begin on aida and linen, information on streatching, cleaning, and framing and dozens of patters and suggestions for thier use. I have been stitching since my teens and I still use this book almost every single time I sit down to work on a project. It is a compact way to make sure you are doing things the correct way to have your work turn out wonderfully!
30 of 30 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars
Fantastic resource book, May 21 2005
By Melissa Kaye - Published on Amazon.com
This review is from: The Cross Stitcher's Bible (Paperback)
I have been cross stitching for years, but that doesn't mean that I still can't learn a few things! This book is full of ideas and techniques to help any stitcher explore new methods and understand how to enhance their work.
The beginning of this book shows how your materials can make a difference. Using linen instead of aidacloth can change the way the final product looks. There are also examples of how the resolution (number of stitches per inch) can impact the look as well. The author contrasts how backstitch around the stitching looks versus stitching without. She also shows different types of threads - Waterlillies and Watercolours thread, silk ribbon thread, varigated thread, metalic thread and blending filaments. There are examples of how beads can be used to enhance your work.
I really like the section that shows different types of stitches (yes, there really is more than just the "x" stitch!) the queen stitch, the eyelet stitch, the counted chain stitch and more. These are some of the stitches I've seen on samplers but didn't know how to stitch. The author also includes an informative and detailed section on hardanger. I gave it a try and it's a joy to create!
The book also contains a pattern library, which has some nice patterns.
This is a fantastic resource book on every aspect of cross stitch. Every serious stitcher should keep a copy of this book on-hand.
11 of 12 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars
Must have for counted thread enthusiasts, Jan 11 2006
By Judith A. Sparks "Reader and crafter from the... - Published on Amazon.com
This review is from: The Cross Stitcher's Bible (Paperback)
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!