I recently met someone who had only done 2 pieces of needlework -- both were large painted canvas kits. Now she's ready to try other things. What books would you recommend to get her started?
Best Books
Feb 07, 2009
3 Replies
Books for reference? If it's canvas-work oriented, I really like th Jo Ippolito Christenson " The Needlepoint Book"
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with other types included, and not expensive, very clear diagrams -Donna Kooler's Encyclopedi of Needlework
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For great stitch references on how to use different stitches, and threads that work well, any of the "Stitches for Effect, More SFE, Even More SFE" - all by Suzanne Howeren & Beth Robertson
If she wants to try some charted canvas - there are several designers out there that have booklet charts that are geared towards beginner, or into intermediate stitchers. Brenda Kocher has hers labelled, some of the AmyBear desings, Nancy's Needle, Carolyn Taylor - all good places. I'd stay away from the Jean Hilton books at first. Turnberry Ridge is large, but written with lots of instructions - it's a learning piece. Debbee's Designs
- not too huge - but, her directions can be lacking. A lot of these pieces are really intended for experienced stitchers who are familiar with the stitches, or have the references, etc - because the details aren't really listed in the stitch guide.
Also - worth looking at - on the ANG web site, Stitch of the Month for the last couple of years has been a project that goes through the year with a new stitch detailed each month = great instructions.
Ellice
Thanks, Dianne and Ellice. I'll forward your suggestions to my new friend.
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