A guide to machine applique. It covers everything needed in order to get started, and contains easy exercises to help the reader practise new skills. Each technique is described step by step, and there is discussion on how to choose and use the right needles, threads and more."

Go beyond basic scrap quilts with this guide to turning fabric bits snips into striking modern art quilts—featuring 8 quick and easy projects. In Scrappy Bits Applique, fabric designer and quilt artist Shannon Brinkley shares her secrets to putting sewing room scraps to use. With her easy stitching and collage techniques, she shows how simplicity can produce dramatic results. Shannon’s “scrappy” approach to quilting uses a fast raw-edged technique. With step-by-step instructions, she teaches you how to intuitively choose, cut, and sew bits of fabric to create a collage of unique images and textures. Included are eight engaging quilt projects to try out your new skills.

"Inside this book is the full-scale original pattern of Bird by Bird, accompanied by a 12-month program of instruction..."--Back cover.

Begin an exhilarating journey into the world of drawing and painting with thread and your sewing machine. Thread sketching is a fascinating craft - but where do you begin? This fully revised and illustrated Second Edition of 'Creative Thread Sketching' guides you through everything you need to know. From equipment and tools, fabric selection and setting up your sewing machine, to free motion stitching techniques and problem-solving, this friendly guide shows you how to put all the pieces together. Learn how to create a wide variety of stunning stitched textile art for your home or friends. Popular textile artist, author and blogger Deborah Wirsu includes six free, illustrated projects to help get you started with this comprehensive introduction to creating stunning textile art using fabric, thread, and a domestic sewing machine.

Is it possible? Fusible applique that's soft and drapey--and easy? Yes it is, and Pat Sloan shows you how. An extremely popular teacher and designer with a huge online radio show following, Pat shares her fusible techniques for machine-stitched quilts that are as delightful to touch as they are pleasing to the eye. You'll love what you're about to create! Projects range from wall hangings to banners to bed quilts, all with Pat's fresh and cheery style Gain confidence and get all your questions answered--Pat shares loads of tips throughout Own the first in a series of "Teach Me" books from one of the world's best quilting coaches

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.

The ultimate how-to book for quilters—a workbook with exercises that provide a foundation of much-needed basics to set you on your quilting path. Two of quilting’s most respected teachers combine their different styles to present an incredible reference and project book that beginners and experienced quilters alike will always keep near the sewing machine! Loaded with the information you need to make traditional quilts, including selecting and caring for fabric, choosing equipment and supplies, calculating yardage, selecting the piecing technique that ensures the best result, designing borders, and deciding on quilting designs. Designed for those who encounter problems with quilting basics, from confident beginners to experienced quilters. Master piecing methods with step-by-step exercises, helpful hints, illustrations, and photos. Project quilts accompany each basic technique chapter. Numerous variations of the techniques are also presented. Find out how to answer questions such as “where do I go next?” or “what went wrong?”