The Embroidery Book: Over 40 Beautifully Simple Projects for You and Your Home
Introduction By Una Stubbs
Introduction By Una Stubbs
In A Nutshell: Uses embroidery to create timeless French style with challenging, intricate and complex designs
Another charity shop find – they are such a wonderful source of interesting books, often far superior to current publications. I had difficulty even finding this book on Amazon – there wasn’t an image available.
My copy of “The Embroidery Book” was first published in 1989, but I think it was originally published in France around 1980. Una Stubbs comments in her delightful introduction, how true style never dates, and these eye-catching embroidery designs aptly demonstrate the truth in that statement. More than twenty years after publication, the patterns still look amazing.
The book is divided into three sections – the first contains canvas work, the second has designs for clothing and the last section is all about home-furnishings. Many of the designs are stunning. My only reservation is that they would represent something of a challenge in reproducing their intricacy and complexity. The instructions lack detail, and give more of a sketchy overview, rather than a step by step approach. I love some colourful fish designs, but you have to copy the stitch work from a photo, there isn’t a clear diagram. But this still wouldn’t stop me giving them a go. Other designs that caught my eye included a countryside mosaic, ethnic flowers and fall of leaves. Anyone completing some of the patterns in this book would have a treasured heirloom piece.
This book not only has dazzling designs but shows how embroidery has a breadth of uses – applications include bedspreads, cushions, bags, dresses, rugs and tablecloths. There is a charming project called “Celebration Time” which involves creating a romantic dining area with ethereal designs on net. Trust the French to combine sewing style with romance.
