Almost every piece of embroidery, including quilting or soft furnishings, needs finishing or edging – maybe just a simple hem or binding but more often a truly decorative finishing that enhances the textile. So often these finishing techniques are an afterthought, but they should be designed when the textile is designed, should use the same style of stitching and, often, the same threads or fabrics. This book – from one of the UK's leading machine embroiderers – gives a library of possibilities, which can be used creatively, developed further and made more individual by the reader. It is ideal for the less-experienced machine embroiderer but a great sourcebook for the more advanced. Each edging and finishing method is covered in a double-page spread with instructive text, diagrams and colour photography placed together for clarity. The methods given include designs for wall hangings, panels, book covers, bags, vessels, bowls, cushions, belts, tassels and other accessories. Any modern sewing machine will do all the stitching suggested here.

A library of possibilities for finishing embroidered pieces, this work provides plenty of inspiration for developing your own ideas.

State-of-the-art machine embroidery from two of the most accomplished writers on the subject. The variety of materials used – from velvet and silk to bonded fleece, wire, mesh and nappy liners – introduces a mixed media element and will encourage you to find new ways of stitching to create three-dimensional forms. With clear, step-by-step instructions in each chapter, the book covers: – Making backgrounds, including the use of dyes, paints, stencils, appliques and stitched backgrounds – Stitched motifs and slips, covering, stabilisers, patterns and letters, scanned motifs and designing software – Combining backgrounds with motifs and slips to make finished items

This book looks at new ways of adapting stitch patterns on a variety of different fabrics and combining them with a range of techniques -- hand stitching, free machine embroidery, quilting, appliqué and beads. Swinging stitches, patterns and ribbons, stitching and slashing, quilting with patterns, machine-wrapped cords, stuffed ribbon braids and larger motifs are just some of the ideas included in this book. -- P. [4] of cover.

Featuring new and exciting techniques on how to dissolve, melt, and distort fabric both before and after stitching, this guide explores the evolving and innovative materials that are introduced into the textile market and instructs fiber artists how to use them creatively and effectively. Whether dissolving, melting, punching, slashing, or distorting textiles, crafters can achieve fascinating effects using the handbook's easy-to-follow steps, design tips, and diagrams. The book's organization around three themes--stitch, dissolve, and distort--allows experienced embroiderers to easily incorporate fresh ideas into their favorite stitching styles.

How to get the most out of your sewing machine's embroidery function.

If you think you know what cross stitch is, look again! Jamie Chalmers, aka Mr X Stitch, shows you how to cross stitch using simple step-by-step instructions and also takes you to the frontiers of cross stitch design. The book is aimed at stitchers of all abilities, from absolute beginners looking to learn a new craft to embroiderers and cross stitchers who want to do something different in cross stitching. For many, cross stitch conjures up images of cute kittens and country cottages, but this book shows people that theres a different side to cross stitching that its an art in its own right, and will encourage them to be a little braver with their art. Jamies writing style is fun, entertaining and highly inspirational. The book aims to appeal to men as well as women, encouraging one and all to take up the ancient craft. It teaches the basics of cross stitching, including information on materials, tools, techniques and colour blending, but also puts Jamies own individual spin on it, with urban flavours and the introduction of different materials such as glow-in-the-dark threads and stitching on metal. As well as providing exciting designs to stitch, there is guidance on how to create cross stitch designs of your own, for example by using photographs and other images for reference. Jamie also showcases the work of other contemporary cross stitchers who are pushing the boundaries of their craft, and introduces more than 20 stunning cutting-edge projects to make, showing that beauty, innovation and 'craftivism' are alive and kicking in this inspirational book.