100+ Cross Stitch Patterns to Mix and Match: Motifs and Borders, Plus 21 Alphabets

Designer Greenoff (Everything: Cross Stitch) encourages readers to create their own “masterpieces” by combining the dozens of patterns she offers in this beautiful volume. First, she briefly covers useful tools and stitching basics, such as how to create rice stitches and French knots and how to finish off a project. The cozy assortment of motifs include Dutch stitch patterns with crowns and antique keys, charming cottages, lots of colorful floral options, farm animals and butterflies, and some seasonal ones, too, such as Christmas stockings and wreaths. Each pattern has its own easy-to-follow chart with a color key, along with an image of a finished sample for reference. Then comes a wealth of alphabet font styles to choose from, such as “olde world,” “quirky,” and “little boat” (a sailboat adorns each letter). Greenoff also offers a couple of helpful “Jane’s tip” boxes in the beginning sections that offer suggesetions for determining the best needle size and avoiding marks in fabric. Seasoned crafters will enjoy the endless possibilities on tap. (Apr.)