Stumpwork & Goldwork Embroidery

Beautifully photographed pieces
Inspirational images throughout
Clear instructions for each tile and its variations
Comprehensive illustrations and diagrams to guide the reader

About Jane Nicholas

Jane Nicholas is one of the world’s leading embroiderers and has worked in the field for over 30 years, specializing in stumpwork and goldwork. She has written ten books and has contributed widely to journals and magazines. She teaches in Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the US, and continues to research and develop new techniques, particularly in stumpwork. In 2005, Jane was awarded the Order of Australia Medal (OAM), for her 'services to hand embroidery as an artist, teacher and author'. Jane lives in New South Wales, Australia. For more information visit her website www.janenicholas.com

West Country Embroiderers

Winter 2010

The vivid colours and richness of textures and design on the cover is only an example of the beautiful illustrations inside. The book has a number of designs with a little history and detailed instructions of stitching and materials needed. Also smaller projects are included, at the end of each section, which would be suitable for a brooch or the inside of a box. The combination of beautiful threads, goldwork and beads is absolutely gorgeous and make this a most appealing book. This book did exactly what the title promised. Starting with the basics of materials and equipment it gave plenty of examples which could be followed by a beginner or expanded upon by the more experienced sewer. Each step was well described and the accompanying illustrations were easy to follow as they were clear and large enough to see exactly what to do. The section covering machine embroidery was so well described that it felt that once mastered it would open up endless possibilities to embellish quite ordinary fabric and create something special. With a variety of shapes, luxurious velvets or fabrics you have made yourself and decorated whether by machine or embroidered by hand, it would be possible to make some stunning bags whatever your level of ability. Also a lovely way to make use of all the beads, threads and bits and pieces that we all acquire because it is sure to come in useful one day!

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Stitch

Dec 10/Jan 11

Inspired by Turkish, Syrian and Persian tiles, the designs in this book are exquisite. Although the designs are very detailed, the clear instructions ensure that you'll find them do-able. The main designs are large enough to be a challenge, but individual motifs from the larger embroideries are used singly to embellish little treasures, such as trinket boxes, a paperweight and a book cover and these are very achievable. Altogether there are 16 stunning projects inspired by pottery, textiles, manuscripts and even by a spittoon that showcases the traditions of goldworking and enamelling. Whatever the source of inspiration, every design combines rich jewel colours with gold metallic threads and glittering beads.

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NEW STITCHES

Dec 10

Indulge in some opulent embroidery inspired by Turkish, Syrian and Persian tiles with this fantastic book by Jane Nicholas. Stumpwork and Gold Embroidery is packed with beautiful projects large and small using traditional techniques to recreate motifs of stylised tulips, pomegranates, peonies and more. Each project is explained step-by-step, being built up in stages to culminate in a wonderful three-dimensional piece, highlighted with gold. The book features full stitching instructions and wonderful photography of items that have inspired Jane's embroideries.