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.

This book shows how anyone with a sewing machine can experiment with stitched patterns to create innovative embroideries. The book presents 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, applique 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 colourful book.

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 volume, written by two experienced teachers of embroidery, shows how to gain mastery over your sewing machine and produce exactly the effect you want. Techniques include running stitch, zig zag, satin stitch, whip stitch, combined stitches and cable stitch.

If the sewing machine does it, then the technique is here! Anyone looking for advice on those indispensable basics will find a variety of ways to do bias binding, buttonholes, edge finishes, gathering, hem finishes, mitering corners, seam finishes, topstitching, and zippers. Or sewers can learn how to make any item eye-catching with an array of creative touches, including appliqu�, crisscross chain stitching, eyelet embroidery, and lacework. Every technique comes complete with machine setups and guidance on fabrics, stitching, needles, threads, tension, and the presser foot.

This step-by-step technique reference introduces and thoroughly explores several methods of fabric embellishment that can be used to adorn clothes, home décor items, or even quilts. With Embellishments for Adventurous Sewing, you'll delve into various methods of appliqué, learn the nuances of free-motion embroidery and thread sketching, and learn to maximize the decorative stitches and embroidery capabilities of your sewing machine. Explore the world of trims and learn creative or tried and true ways to apply them. Try some fabric manipulation techniques to give fabric exciting texture. Each section includes easy-to-follow, illustrated instructions and ends with three to five small projects. Enhance your skills and develop your craft with Embellishments for Adventurous Sewing!