The Art of the Needle: Designing in Fabric and Thread by Jan Beaney
This fully illustrated guide to needlework design describes a variety of techniques, including applique, quilting, stitchery, machine embroidery and patchwork. The author looks at sources of design - garden, home, animals, fruit and vegetables - and describes shapes, motifs and patterns that can be used. There are ideas on composition and scale and tips on how to interpret texture and colour, how to transfer designs from paper to fabric and how to dye fabric. Sample projects such as cushions, wall hangings, quilts, clothes, jewellery and bags are outlined. Jan Beaney has written several books including Landscapes in Pictures, Collage and Design, Textiles and Surface Patterns, Embroidery: New Approaches and Stitches: New Approaches.