Just so you know, I loved this book!

20 innovative projects with a modern flair, using traditional embroidery stitches. Two projects use a sewing machine to layer thread using free motion stitching inside an outline. Nice technique that can be adapted to many ideas.
I enjoy learning new hand embroidery stitches, so I'm happy to report that there are nice diagrams and instructions for 38 different stitches. The first project is a stitch reference and needle storage book. That'll be nice to have once you've given the cute project away and can't remember what you did...

Never thought of making your own thimbles? Their Korean-inspired fabric and leather thimbles are colorfully embroidered, and look like they'd work up pretty quick. Another quick project is the hair ties. Shapes are stitched on a scrap of cotton and put on cover buttons attached to hair elastics.

All of the projects in this book are small items and probably finish quickly, except for the purse and mittens, since those items are handmade. The other projects are embellishments added to pre-made items - A baby bib stitched with tiny insect designs, an apron decorated with kitchen utensil outlines and measurement conversions.

Favorite projects - Happy Birthday stitched velvet ribbons, embroidered map journal cover and the chicken napkin ring. This is a great book for your craft library. Learn lots of stitches while making quick modern designs.

The book is nicely designed, with many color photos, illustrations and interesting info in sidebar sections. The first chapter discusses notions and materials thoroughly. A beginner could learn embroidery with this book, while most any stitcher will enjoy the stitches and projects.

Hip to Stitch: 20 Contemporary Projects Embellished with Thread at Amazon.com.

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