Learn the stunning art of Sashiko stitching with this comprehensive guide that's packed with inspirational ideas. Meaning "little stabs", it's a traditional Japanese sewing method that uses evenly spaced running stitches to create eye-catching geometric patterns. 20 patterns and motifs that readers can choose from and use as templates for their own unique Sashiko designs. Thorough guidance on the tools, materials and basic techniques, Included are large-scale items such as bedding, a door curtain and wall-hanging, and smaller items, such as brooches, greetings cards and notebook covers. Sashiko Craft explores the history of this strikingly effective technique and demonstrates how to apply it to a range of useful and ornamental items for the home, accessories and gifts.

• Pages: 136
• Author: Jilly Clay
• Publish Date: 07/09/2019
• Dimensions: 8.5in x 0.5in x 11in
• Softcover

Even with zero experience, you can do embroidery! How to Embroider teaches embroidery as you would learn it sitting at your grandmother's knee. It introduces the basic tools, materials, and stitches you need to know and sprinkles in helpful tips to keep you on the right path. Best of all, instead of tedious repetition, you get to practice each new stitch by doing an easy but stylish project. Basic, must-know stitches made easy. From basic running and outline stitches to filling and couching stitches, you'll learn them all quickly by following simple, clear diagrams. You'll also find interesting variations on basic stitches that really stand out. So, even if you've never done hand sewing before, you can add some very cool decorative stitching to cushions, curtains, shirts, and more. Nine charming projects you can't wait to make. How to Embroider opens up an exciting world of creative possibilities. You'll learn to use fanciful stitching to put your personal touch on pillows, tea cozies, baby blankets, home accessories, and clothing. As you work your way through the book, each new technique builds on the last one until you've become more proficient. You'll also have some delightful handcrafted projects to enjoy. Tips that a grandmother would share. Part of the popular How To series, this books weaves in a wealth of insightful information: when to use or not use an embroidery hoop and why, how to keep fabric from puckering, prevent thread from tangling, and use an old-fashioned needle threader. Whatever your needlework skills, How to Embroider deserves a place in your library. It?s packed with easy-to-understand instruction and charming projects you'll cherish.

• Pages: 108
• Author: Susie Johns
• Publish Date: 09/05/2017
• Dimensions: 8.5in x 0.2in x 10.7in
• Softcover

Rev up your engines and place your bobbins! Absolute beginners and those looking to sharpen their skills will love How to Machine Sew. This project-based book teaches you 9 basic techniques of using a sewing machine with simple to follow instructions. Indispensable advice and proper know-how are jam packed on every page. You will learn absolutely everything you need to get started, including fundamental machine stitches, making seams, and working with zippers. Clear photographs and 180 step-by-step illustrations guide you through all the techniques and each fashionable project - 9 in all - including a drawstring bag, stitched picture, and the oven glove. No matter how little machine sewing experience you have, you will soon be humming along and dazzling your friends and family with your new-found skills and stylish designs.

• Pages: 108
• Author: Susie Johns
• Publish Date: 01/01/2017
• Dimensions: 8.46in x 0.35in x 10.83in
• Softcover

How to Knit is the ultimate knitting guide for the absolute beginner. For those with little or no knitting experience, this simple-to-learn, project-based book will start with the basics and take you through the initial stages of this fun and creative craft. Each technique is clearly explained and accompanied by a stylish project to make, so that you can put your newly acquired knowledge into practice. Demonstrate your new skills to friends and family with designs that include a hobo bag, beanie hat or clutch bag. Beginners will learn all the essentials, from how to hold needles, cast on and off, make a tension swatch and form the basic knit and purl stitches, to how to knit stripes, cable, rib and lace, plus shape their knitting and add buttonholes. Clear step-by-step illustrations and beautifully shot photographs of the finished projects are included throughout, making it both practical and inspirational--the ideal book for want-to-be knitters! Projects include: tablet cover, hot-water bottle cover, striped hobo bag, fingerless gauntlets, beanie hat with felt corsage, envelope clutch bag, cabled place mats and coasters, chunky lace cowl and patchwork cushion cover.

• Pages: 92
• Author: Tina Barrett
• Publish Date: 01/14/2014
• Dimensions: 8.27in x 0.39in x 8.29in
• Softcover

If you’ve been thinking about taking up crochet but didn’t know where to start, How to Crochet is the perfect guide for the absolute beginner. This simple-to-follow project-based book takes you through the basic techniques of this fun and creative craft. You’ll learn everything you need to get started, including how to do the basic stitches, read charts and patterns, and finish off your work. A range of techniques – including double crochet, working in the round and making granny squares - is accompanied by a stylish project to make. Each technique is explained with the help of clear illustrations that will guide you every step of the way. The straightforward explanations combined with desirable projects means that no matter how little crocheting experience you have to start with, you'll soon be impressing friends and family with your new-found creative skills. Projects include: tablet cover, tea cosy, pot holder, toy bunny, Granny Square blanket, cowl, fingerless mittens and a lace shawl.

• Pages: 108
• Author: Emma Varnam
• Publish Date: 07/11/2017
• Dimensions: 8.4in x 0.3in x 10.7in
• Softcover