Heirlooms in needlepoint - Sue Hawkins

Antique and traditional textiles ranging from Tudor embroidery, kelim and other carpet and rug patterns, oriental weaves and prints to antique patchwork have inspired Sue Hawkins to create a range of richly coloured needlepoint designs - large and small - that are as covetable as they are enjoyable to make. Her work demonstrates clearly the special affinity that textile patterns have with needlepoint embroidery.;The author works mainly in simple tent stitch over single-thread canvas, but she uses cross stitch and long and short stitch to great effect. In the Tudor cushion, for example, this lends the floral motifs a three-dimensional quality and is combined with a vibrant bargello border to create an object of lasting elegance.;The author is well aware of the limited amount of time most people have to devote to craft activities and the book features a series of main projects, each accompanied by a number of co-ordinating smaller projects on the same theme which could be completed in a few hours and yet make attractive, personal gifts or adornments for the home. Full instructions are given for each project and attractive but practical hand-coloured charts accompany the various designs.;There is a glossary of stitches used and a section on basic needlepoint techniques. There are also sections on stretching and blocking canvas, making-up cushions in different styles and mounting embroidery on wooden boxes and many other objects.