The Complete A-Z of Embroidery Stitches

Like we all know, a dictionary is a must have for words and this is a MUST have for your Embroidery stitching. There are 288 stitches, all in alphabetical order, explained to you in clear drawings and instructions, so so easy to follow. I have embroidered before, but there are an awful lot of stitches and techniques in this book that I have never heard of before. At the front of the book, there are a few pages informing you of all the materials you will need to get started, including hints for all left handers. If you don't embroider yourself but know someone who does, this would make a lovely gift. A substantially made book and for £19.99, a very good buy.  * Blodwen from Half Yard Sewing Club * What’s not to like about The Complete A-Z of Embroidery Stitches from the people at Inspiration Studios. It’s 300 pages of sheer joy.  The book size is a bit smaller than A4 and not too weighty with a paperback cover that’s sort of laminated – I guess because the folk at Search Press know you’ll be picking it up and using it time and time again. The book feels bright and airy, enticing stitches on the front cover lead to page after page of clear photographs, concise instruction and step-by-step guidance on how to create no less than 288 stitches.  Neatly arranged in alphabetical order so you can breeze through the book or go straight to what you’re looking for. Of course it wouldn’t be the definitive guide without sections on what fabric, choice of thread, how to start and finish, which needle to use, do I need a hoop, what is a hoop! It’s all there in the Getting Started section of the book. There's some interesting stuff on background and origins of some stitches (which I quite enjoyed learning about) along with tons of hints and tips on how to sew them. Cross Stitch Chained is a new one to me, Plaited Braid stitch looks a challenge and Mountmellick is a beauty. My Mum had a book of a similar title decades ago which was loved and cherished by her and now I have my own updated and beautiful copy to do the same. A reference book suited to anyone and everyone interested in embroidery.  One you’ll love looking at, referring to, be inspired by and want to gift – worth every penny. * Jules from Half Yard Sewing Club * I was fortunate to receive this book to review as its a complete revelation on how to sew some beautiful and quite complex embroidery stitches. This is a book that you will keep returning to for reference whilst you are sewing and is really useful for both beginners and experienced embroiderers. It contains an amazing number of stitches, clearly illustrated in colour diagrams showing each stage of the stitch. The book is so well laid out, beginning with getting started, your materials and very informative hints on threads, needles and hoops. It explains in simple detail all you need to know about designs and caring for your work. It really makes you reach for a needle and have a go as soon as you can. An amazing array of stitches using different threads and ribbons. This book would be a very welcome gift, beautifully presented on quality paper. Very easy to navigate through some amazing stitches, each one is located in alphabetical order by their common name but can also be located in the rear index by any other known names. A complete A-Z , probably one of the most useful book you will buy and continue to use. * Sandra from Half Yard Sewing Club * I was thrilled to be given the chance to review this book. 288 stitches to be able to achieve, through detailed instructions and pictures. Her first part goes through getting started and is helpful, if, like me you are a beginner in Embroidery by hand. You also get instructions on using your threads from an S and Z twist to spin your thread to make it stronger. Hoops are also talked about and choosing the best for what you are doing, as well as different types of needles to achieve the best stitches. l loved the section where you are taught how to transfer designs. Useful so as not to mark this beautiful book. Then, what you have been waiting for? how to use the book to sew the stitches. Also is mentioned hints for left-handed embroiderers. 288 stitches to learn. Photos and instructions. You also learn how to fold and sew a ribbon rose, rosebud, gathered ribbon, and ribbon leaves. l loved the page about Gobelin Stitch, which can be used on tapestry and also on plastic canvas. Some stitches l had never heard of, but the way it has been set up in different sections for you to advance your embroidery skills, makes it an ideal present to give to a sewist. l would personally highly recommend this book to friends who embroider. A super book by Search Press. * Lynne from Half Yard Sewing Club * This is a beautiful, comprehensive of 288 embroidery stitches, suitable for those new to embroidery, or more experienced embroiderers. The book gives detailed advice on all aspects of embroidery, from fabrics to use, details of different threads, advice on needles to use, culminating in an alphabetical collection of stitches. The photographs for each stitch are clear accompanied by a derailed explanation of how to complete each stitch. A value for money, interesting and useful book.  * Jayne from Half Yard Sewing Club *