cover image Cross Stitch: Design Manual

Cross Stitch: Design Manual

Fran Rose. David & Charles Publishers, $19.95 (144pp) ISBN 978-0-7153-8919-5

Rose's background as a teacher of needlework is evident in this book's simple, practical style and organization. For the beginner, she provides brief, incisive explanations on reading patterns and creating frames, and enlarged details of the different stitches. Experts will be interested in the wealth of attractive, sophisticated designs. The patterns' distinctive, subtle charm stresses earth tones, muted hues and large masses of color, revealed here in color plates of finished work. She demonstrates a challenging, creative method of adapting cross stitch designs from a variety of crafts. According to Rose, ""Any charted design on graph paper can be cross stitched, used in needlepoint tapestry, crocheted, knitted by hand or machine, and even used as a basis for motifs for computer gamesa sign of the times!'' Those who enjoy cross stitch will find here great ideas for small gifts, calligraphic cross stitch, and traditional commemorative or seasonal designs. Better Homes and Gardens Crafts Club selection. (October 15)