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Needlework is back in vogue because it's fun, easy, and a great way to add personal touches to just about anything. With only a needle, thread, and cloth you can embellish beautiful garments and décor for yourself, and your friends and family. Learn the basics of embroidery through 38 easy-to-follow stitch illustrations, 18 intriguing, hand-embroidered projects—which can easily be tucked into a tote bag or backpack—and two contemporary machine-embroidered projects. Sidebars throughout the book are packed with helpful tips and hints and tricks-of-the-trade such as hiding knots and thread tails, and how to sew a pocket. Individual projects include stitched patterns and motifs to dress up your favorite shirt or jean jacket, covered button hair ties, a day tripper bag, a groovy guitar pick case, a whimsical picnic baby bib, a butterfly picture frame, an heirloom-quality scrapbook, embroidered pillows, and more. Each project is presented with step-by-step instructions and illustrations, and can be made as simple or ambitious as you like by experimenting with stitches and the number and placement of motifs. Even more experienced stitchers are sure to find renewed inspiration in this fresh approach to embroidery.

Melinda A. Barta received her BFA in fiber arts with a minor in apparel design from Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colorado. She is the Assistant Managing Editor for Beadwork magazine. She was previously the project editor of PieceWork magazine.. Learn more about the author.

Paperbound, 8 1/2 x 9, 128 pages, 80 color photographs, 38 stitch illustrations, 46 pattern illustrations ISBN 1-931499-60-8