Stitch Graffiti: Unexpected Cross-Stitch (Unexpected Cross Stitch) by Heather Holland-Daly published by Interweave Press (April 1, 2008).
Get brave with your cross-stitch, was a quote from one review I read of this book. And that really summed it up for me too. This book really allows you to get a little braver and try some new designs, have some fun, get inspired and go beyond cute sampler patterns.
This book doesn’t go all out however – its no Subversive Cross Stitch
but it does have some interesting ideas. motifs, tattoo designs and slogans, some fun patches and colourful designs.
There are instructions for beginners at the front and a stitch dictionary at the back, but otherwise more advanced stitchers are well catered for.
Cross Stitcher’s Countdown To Christmas by Various Contributors, published by David & Charles (June 9, 2008).
Christmas is coming and for cross stitchers – here is a fabulous book, filled with all sorts of variations on Christmas. All the designs have lovely big charts, and there is a brief techniques section at the back. Designs range from a very sweet advent calendar – with a different design for each day, designed by Joan Elliott. I love the Scandinavian motifs in red and white, and sweet flora and fauna designs both by Lesley Teare. The ‘Mittens garland’ by Ursula Michael, is just beautiful, with beaded cross stitch motifs and the beaded tree decorations by Shirley Toogood are lovely.
And there is more, each page there is something I love, cake band designs with iceskating ladies by Maria Diaz, gift pillow with funny elves by Claire Crompton, some irreverent ‘feathered friends’ turkeys and ducks by Jane Henderson…. Lots lots more. Many projects for the more experienced cross stitcher – with enough for the beginner as well.
120 Celebration Cross Stitch Cards by Gillian Souter, published by David & Charles.
Say it with cross stitch – for the cross stitch lover – some terribly cute designs – small enough for greeting cards – but really you could use these for anything. The charts are clear and there is a good but brief stitching techniques section at the back.
All the main events are included: Religious (all the main religions are represented), as well as every other event you can imagine. I love the knot tag design for fathers day and the tools design, there is a ‘twins’ design with twin prams, and lots of ideas for new babies, and children – including a ‘well done smarty pants’ design and birthday designs, with cute monsters and fairies. There are too many designs to mention and all of them are classic and timeless. Lots here for anyone.
