The Needlecraft Book

January 1, 2011

In this encyclopedic overview of knitting, crochet, needlepoint, embroidery, and quilting, Gordon (The Complete Book of Quilting), Sally Harding (Quick Crochet Huge Hooks), and freelance editor Ellie Vance focus on tools, tips, and techniques for each craft and include simple projects. The knitting, crochet, and needlework sections also include stitch dictionaries with full-color swatches of each pattern, and the quilting section includes a block gallery. This may not be a comprehensive resource for any of the crafts included, but there's enough information to launch beginners and serve as a reference for more experienced fiber artists. A useful addition.

Copyright 2011 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

December 15, 2010
This publisher does an excellent job of producing general, do-it-yourself crafts books that teach beginners outside of any classroom situation. As to be expected, this new compilation of five needlework specialtiesknitting, crocheting, embroidery, needlepoint, and quilting/appliqu'/patchworksurveys tools and materials, basic skills, patterns (and how to read/use them), and specifics for each specialty. All projects are brilliantly photographed in color, with good explanations given in just a few choice words, especially when picturing yarns and equipment. Occasional tips guide novices. A separate chapter on finishing techniques ensures that hours of work wont be wasted on a poorly put-together item; it also instructs in the care and feeding of newly made objects. One surprise is that a standard section on design principles (how to use color, that is) is sandwiched in the quilting chapter, instead of being showcased up front. How-tos done well.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2010, American Library Association.)