This text provides the embroiderer with a technique and design source book for this delicate and greatly admired form of embroidery.

Japanese embroidery place importance on cultivating the individual student`s humanity and spirit which enhance the inner beauty, without focusing exclusively on learning the skill, the practical use. Such inner deepening will surely appear on their embroidery works, and, hopefully, this will also improve and brighten their lives at the same time. This is our aim on the path of Nuido - the integration of both spirit and skill - The Way of Embroidery. Our purpose is to share this enriching practice not only in Japan, where this beautiful embroidery comes from, but throughout the world with all who wish to participate. The different techniques and stitches are explained in detail. Passionate readers will also find photos of embroidered creations.

For Julia Gray, silk is the finest of natural fibres and is full of life and shine. Embroidery on this beautiful fabric has been worked in many countries, but Julia finds the perfection aspired to in traditional Japanese embroidery a wonderful challenge. She learned in Japan by copying the work of a master, and found not only a way to stitch, but also a philosophy that allowed her to achieve balance and harmony in her everyday life. In this inspirational guide she shares her passion and in depth knowledge of the history and practice of this eastern art form. It covers everything from handling flat silk and twisting your own threads to working the different stitches and finishing off an embroidery. Japanese design is influenced by the four seasons, but traditional designs also use the colors and symbols associated with festivals—trees, dolls, fish, birds, and mythical figures. A series of simple step-by-step projects, which include the story behind each motif, help the reader to develop their techniques and learn about the symbolism of a great tradition.

Sashiko: the needlework form of both decorative and functional embroidery developed in Japan many centuries ago. With just four key materials needed--needle, thread, thimble and fabric--Sashiko stitches have long been a favorite for quilting and embroidery. Today, the style is popular in the visible mending movement because of its simplicity, efficiency and aesthetic appeal. With Simply Sashiko, you can apply centuries-old Japanese techniques to your home, clothing and accessories in a fun, modern way. This book gives you simple but thorough lessons on the ins and outs (literally) of 36 different sashiko patterns, plus designs for stylish home and personal accessories so you can try them out, including: Decorative pouches Little purses Placemats and napkins Covered brooches and buttons And much more! Step-by-step instructions and detailed color photos show you everything from transferring patterns to perfecting your stitch technique. User-friendly templates help you keep your motifs balanced and even, while color combinations ranging from the traditional white and indigo to multicolored threads on primary colored backgrounds inspire you to get creative with these basic stitches.

"By applying the time-honoured techniques and traditions of Japanese embroidery, beautiful beaded motifs are brought to life. Discover a whole new world of beading through the pages of this superb book which includes detailed step-by-step diagrams, full descriptions of the techniques involved and fabulous photography. Nine stunning projects are included ranging from simple beginner designs to a sumptuous evening bag."--

Sashiko, the traditional Japanese technique of needlework quilting, uses simple running stitch to create beautifully decorative patterns ideal for patchwork, quilting and embroidery. This little book describes everything you need to begin stitching.

“Virtually unknown outside Japan until recently, Temari consists of a ball core covered with plain sewing thread and finished on the outside with brightly colored embroidery thread in geometric designs. Twenty-two illustrated step-by-step projects for finishing the outside complete the book....An excellent and beautifully illustrated guide and is highly recommended for all crafts collections.”—Library Journal.