Create Heirloom-Quality Needlework Noted needlework author and designer Shay Pendray shares her secrets for unique, inventive stitchery. From years of study in Japan and around the world, Shay has learned stitching techniques that will help you create one-of-a-kind works of art. From the basics of framing up, starting and stopping threads, and laying multi-standard threads, to embellishing, combining stitches, and couching techniques, you will be inspired to create needlework you never dreamed possible. Suitable for needlepoint stitchers of all levels, this reference combines illustrations and full-color photographs to demonstrate each technique. • Gold Work - Stunning projects using metallic threads on silk ground fabric with a variety of couching techniques (Shippo, maze, back and fourth, raised, and cloud filling) • Painted Canvas - Tips for selecting the stitches and threads most suitable for each area of the design • Shading - Methods to blend thread colors for lovely realism

"Technique and inspiration for gold work, painted canvas, and shading"--Cover.

Through her unconventional experimentation with ribbon, author and designer Denise Giles has formulated an enchanting combination - the texture of traditional candlewicking with the classic beauty of silk ribbon. Replace the heavy cotton threads with delicate flosses, silken or metallic threads, and pearl cotton; substitute the white cotton fabric within linen, woven, muslin, or even color fabrics; add beautiful ribbon embroidery accents, and needle artists are left with this fresh new twist to an age-old needlework hobby. Encompassing contemporary candlewicking fitting for today's home decor, 31 original patterns complete with color diagrams and step-by-step photographs are worked into 29 projects. Greet guests in the entryway with a welcoming coat rack; gather the family around the kitchen table with a warm, hearty meal with placemats and napkins; retreat to where the outdoors come in with dragonfly pillows, butterfly trays, and flower frames.

Forget the fair young maiden painstakingly embroidering pillowcases for her hope chest. Picture a liberated lass (that would be you) creating chic fashions and accessories while sipping a glass of whatever and saving the planet. Not Your Mama's Stitching lets you choose from more than twenty projects to make or embellish home decor items, garments, accessories, gifts, and more. It covers: The tools and materials that no stitcher should be without Basic stitching skills such as starting a thread, tying off, and finishing your piece A myriad of embroidery, cross stitch, and needlepoint stitches Projects ranging from a tattooed tank top to cheeky stitched sayings and from a Gucci-inspired wallet to a drinks recipe box Variations and ideas for customizing every project Make everyday items one-of-a-kind, or whip up your own creations from scratch. With a savvy, sassy attitude and fun, funky projects, Not Your Mama's Stitching will have you in stitches in no time.

Companion to popular US TV programme which shows how to create a wide range of needlecraft projects.