3 comments about Art Deco Textiles: The French Designers.

1. Art Deco Textiles is an informed and informative survey of art deco fabrics which packs in color examples drawn from a diverse range of designers in the field, from Marrot and Benedictus to Chanel. Alain-Rene Hardy's research through museum holdings, manufacturer's archives and private collections alike produces an unparalleled reference 'Bible' of both hand made and machine-made textiles, creating an outstanding textile oriented history and survey of the entire field.



2. I'm a textile and clothing designer and have a large collection of print reference books. Since I first purchased this book it has been the first book I pull out when I want inspiration. Because of that I have also given it as a gift to several other designers, and it has become one of their favorites too. The collection is inspired and diverse and the printing shows beautiful detail. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves great contemporary design, as well as those interested in vintage textile design.



3. Terrific forward that puts the work into context. The images are wonderful -- the colors have printed well to the pages, good amount of detail. A fascinating period in textile design, well handled.

No comments about Wild Women: Stitched Art Brooches (Twenty to Make).

3 comments about The Fairchild Dictionary of Fashion.

1. A thorough, detail-packed reference book that's invaluable for anyone connected with the fashion industry. We have found it to be the best "first place to turn" for terms and descriptions that add insight and excitement to the marketing messages we create for our fashion clients.



2. This is the ultimate resource for a student of costume and fashion design, the key for readers of all levels to decode the jargon that fills this profession's books. The organization is impeccable, the language clear and concise, and the rare but sufficient pictures are crisply adept at illustrating the necessary word or concept.
   
   It covers everything from names of period pieces, accessories, and undergarments to modern terms in the fashion world. It has everything you'd need.



3. It's a good reference book when you need information fast. The book is set up that way. It's a wealth of information

5 comments about Beading on Fabric: Encyclopedia of Bead Stitch Techniques.

1. The elements of beginning and more advanced bead embroidery on fabric are covered in a friendly discussion approach, offering you choices after an explanation of an element. The details are well done and understandable; and the book is very easy to use since it is spiral bound. The illustrations are inspiring because they show fabrics and combinations that you can use as a basis for your own creations.The variety of stitches are shown in the detail necessary to give a professional looking result.



2. I just received this book and each page is better than the one before. I can barely wait to begin a project that was inspired by this book. Good diagrams and excellent examples. Would suggest this book to any one that enjoys beading or wants to begin. Is helpfull to all levels of beaders.



3. This book is right up my alley. I just love the ideas and colored pictures showing so many examples. It just causes the creative juices to flow. I am so thankful that I purchased this book and would recommend it to anyone who loves creating art quilts with embroidery stitches and bead work.



4. I have been TRYING to bead on fabric for several months now. When I received this book I sat and read it from cover to cover. I can say that I will now be able to bead on fabric without any problems. This is the best book I have ever come across on beading on fabric. It gives you instructions for beading on all types of fabric. The pictures are great and the instructions are easy to understand. If you have money for only one book and you want to make your beading on fabric more professional looking, this is the book to buy!



5. Lately a few people have been asking me which book I would recommend for learning bead embroidery. This is it folks.
   Interweave Press has a history of fantastic books, and this one lives up to that history.
   
   It's spiral bound in a hard cover so it will lie flat while you're working,and it's laid out logically for the absolute beginner in bead embroidery. The first chapter covers tools, the second is about beads, the third chapter explains the different types of bead embroidery, it goes on to stitches and projects. There are gorgeous and inspiring examples throughout the book, and the illustrations of technique are easily understandable.
   
   Bead embroidery doesn't have to be scary, it's a fun technique that's able to do things woven beads won't do. This book will take a lot of the mystery out of it for you.
   
   And yes, when my friends ask "Can you recommend a good book for learning bead embroidery?" I tell them about this one. It's really that good.

No comments about Felt, Fabric, and Fiber Jewelry: 20 Beautiful Projects to Bead, Stitch, Knot, and Braid.

5 comments about Fast Quilts from Fat Quarters.

1. My, oh, my. I had no clue how wonderful this book was when I ordered it.
   My 14 year old granddaughter picked up the book last week and shared how
   many she wanted to make out of this one. It's sew easy instructions and
   the speed in which you can complete any of these quilts makes it a book that I'm sure to use over and over again. Can't wait to find time to get one or more done.



2. They can never be made fast enough. The book is very helpful with some great ideas. Fat Quarters or scraps.



3. This book is amazing! Great use of fat quarters, easy to follow instructions, and very good diagrams. The design possibilities of the fat quarter cutting plan are endless, no two quilts will be alike.



4. I do love this book, but I'm a little sad that it says a fat quarter is 20 x 22 which is not right they are 18 x 22, but to me it doesn't matter much since I jsut use scraps of fabrics, but you can always just not cut out all the pieces if you have fat quarters. I do love the book though, made several quilts already



5. At 120 pages, this book gives much more detail that many quilt books. The recurring "quilt gallery" displays different approaches to a pattern. This is a real plus, since it is hard to visualize the effects of change in color or print. The section on block patterns is helpful. Some quilters buy the Block Tool, a compact guide that fans out and displays 100 different patterns. This tells the piece size for each segment of a block.
   
   Quilt projects included tend to favor more modern patterns and colors, although some traditional projects are included.

5 comments about Sweet Needle Felts: 25 Projects to Wear, Give & Hug.

1. A admit it. I was a little skittish about getting this book because of one of the so-so reviews that was posted. So, I decided to check it out from the library first. Well, I MUST get my very own copy ASAP. The book is perfect, in my opinion. There are tons for clear color photos and concise, easy-to-follow instructions. The author has a wide variety of projects employing different needle-felting techniques, and I can't wait to try them all. In addition to the adorable creatures featured on the cover, there are projects to make a stylish handbag, an embellished scarf, a really cool rug (I fear it would cost a fortune to make it, but it IS stunning), and really pretty flowers.
   
   I've never tried needle felting before, but I'm eager to try it after reading this book.



2. I was a little nervous about getting this book because I knew I'd never be able to make the little dolls on the cover, but I'm so glad I took a chance and ordered it anyway. The instructions on how to needle felt in the book are great. I bought a beginner's kit awhile ago and was ready to learn more and this really looks like it will be all I'll need. There are some really nice things in the book that I can't wait to make - coasters, a woven basket and felted fruit. There are a few things that are kind of on the "funky" side, like jewelry I'd never wear, but there are plenty of really practical things that I would make for my house or to put on clothing. I think this would be the perfect book for anyone who wants to try needle felting.



3. I totally disagree with the negative review. I love how original the idea's are, I have already made the pin cushion and have taken the advise of the tip and have made a few other seasonal ones. If you are just starting to needle felt or have been for awhile I still suggest this book. It will take your imagination into a whole new direction. Good Luck!!!!



4. The adorable animal party picture on the cover inspired me to purchase this book. However, once I received the book, I was disappointed in 90% of the other projects. Many of the other projects are apparel related, but the pictures show items that would only be worn by a 4 year old or a 98 year old grandmother. For example, one project is to make a felted ring, and the end product looks like a giant easter egg. Who wants to wear an easter egg on their hand?
   
   On the plus side, this book is a better guide for beginners. The author explains basic needle felting techniques, and has a list of sources for supplies and wool. For this reason, I am glad that I purchased this book, but I will not keep it in my library... this book would be a great one to borrow, read, then pass along to a friend.



5. I love this book. The color pictures and step by step instructions of the needle felting techniques are wonderful. I really don't understand the negative comments. The projects are imaginative and interesting. I don't use a book to copy projects either, but rather as instructional to apply to my own ideas for crafts. The directions are clear and concise. I'm not a beginner and believe the author did a great job with her book. As with any craft book, not all the projects may be your 'style' but there is plenty to learn on all levels. As someone already said, for the nay-sayers, use the Search Inside tool next time! I highly recommend the book.

2 comments about Fabulous Felted Scarves: 20 Wearable Works of Art.

1. This book was recommended to me by an experienced textile artist and as such I just placed my order on this recommendation. I am thrilled with the book and it's illustrations and instructions. This will suit those who have some felting knowledge and also beginners who seek a high standard for this craft. There are many projects to wet your appetite all of which have step by step instructions and illustrations to show the way. Everything is set out beautifully showing what you need and the techniques necessary. This is a 'must have' purchase for all those who love this fibre art. It takes felting beyond the basics and opens up a Pandora's box of ideas.



2. I'm a new felter and gain heaps of knowledge and ideas from this fantastic book. I recommend it completely for both newbies and advanced felters.

5 comments about Follow-The-Line Quilting Designs: Full-Size Patterns for Blocks and Borders (That Patchwork Place) (That Patchwork Place).

1. Follow-the-line-quilting Designs Volume Two: Full-size Patterns for Blocks And Borders is a quick way to get started on your quilting. The full-sized pattern allows you to "try it out" by laying it on your quilt for fit, but it also can be "resized" (by eye or copier) to fit your space. I found her diagrams with numbers to be extremely helpful. Once I finger-traced a few times, I was all set. Clipping the template where I could see it allowed me to visually track. (I do free motion quilting and use her patterns as a starting point.) I especially liked her block and corner motifs which accompany each border. Finally, by meandering her border designs, you can create an "all-over" design. This is a great resource. My only "complaint" is that I wish the box were a bit larger, as once the templates are unfolded, they do not fit back into the box.



2. I love this book. Though it's not really a book. Each of the patterns are a separate leaflet that fit inside the paper box package. I snipped the cellophane at the top of the package to keep the box sturdier. I really like that I don't have to mess with the bulk of a book. Also, for those who quilt professionally each of the patterns can be used up to 10 different times for retail without violating copyright. I found the patterns refreshing and different. Mary also shows you using numbers the direction to go. I especially found it helpful on the fan pattern, It made it so much more fluid. I will be recommending it to my machine quilting students. Excellent buy!



3. Between the instructional booklet and all the patterns for quilting a quilt, you will have all the information you need to complete your quilt in FOLLOW-THE-LINE QUILTING DESIGNS. The booklet that comes with the patterns explains how the quilt designs are laid out and defines the markings found on each pattern.
   
   As any quilter knows, sizing patterns are not the easiest thing to do but Ms. Covey has provided areas where you can lengthen or shorten a pattern with ease. If that is not the option you want to take, you can use her suggested Quilter's Assistant Proportional Scale and then make photocopies to the size you want.
   
   Marking - which way to go. There are pens, pencils, tape, chalk or even a no-mark method. Read over the options and choose the one that works for the quilt you are doing. Don't forget the 3 B's of finishing ---- backing, batting and basting. The pages devoted to these will make this an easy job. And finally, will you quilt by hand, machine or long-arm? The suggestions given here will make this part of finishing the quilt easier too.
   
   The patterns come in a plasticized package. There are 19 designs from a farm to baby to geometric designs to name a few. You should be able to find one to fit the theme of your quilt. They come in corners, blocks and borders so every place you need a pattern, you will have one that is made for that area and since the designs are all in continuous-line motifs, you will not have to stop until you are finished! Happy Quilting.



4. I recently bought a long-arm so of course I "needed" more patterns. I bought her first and second book/box of patterns, and friends bought me this 3rd set. The border patterns work well as pantographs on the long-arm and there are matching "block" and "triangle" motifs for each design. Each one has a nice variety of patterns - curvey, geometric, for kids, floral, etc... This 3rd set is definetly more challenging than the previous sets.



5. Mary M. Covey's FOLLOW-THE-LINE QUILTING DESIGNS V. 3: FULL-SIZE PATTERNS FOR BLOCKS AND BORDERS is not so much a book as a box of patterns for tracing, transferring and stitching, presented in full size for easy use. Twenty new pattern groups including designs for blocks, borders and setting triangles and can be used on a regular home sewing machine or by hand alike - as well as on a long-arm quilting machine for professionals. An outstanding, flexible guide.

5 comments about Creative Quilts: Inspiration, Texture & Stitch.

1. This book along with Sandra's contemporary quits has been inspirational to me. These two books have almost become my bible. I can look through them time and again for ideas and they help to spark my creativity. There are a variety of techniques to make your quilts more interesting and diamentional. This book was well worth the money and would make a great contributional to anyone who is interested in art quilts to their own personal library.



2. It was a gift for my Mom who wants to create more inspired quilts. She loves it and is off and running with new ideas and techniques for creating her own designs.



3. This is a wonderful book to spark your creativity. It was reccommended by Amazon when I bought another quilt book and I'm glad I bought it.



4. This book is exactly what I hoped to find. It is filled with beautifully illustrated quilts & embroidery with step by step details on design, construction and how it was embroidered. Sandra has detailed her quilt design process giving the reader a clearly demonstrated understanding visually & textually of what inspires her quilts and then firstly how she gets them out of her head and onto paper & then translated into a quilt. Sandras use of sumptuous fabrics showing us how fabrics are combined, moved around and translated into images is wonderful. The embroidery is textual & three dimensional and the magic is nothing you see seems unachievable. Highly recommended for teachers, students and anyone wanting to take their quilt making to a new level.



5. The gorgeous pictures of these fascinating quilts are an inspiration to get to work on my own creative ideas. I am always amazed at the diversity of the human creative spirit and especially the way people use fiber in making art.