Birth Flower Embroidery: A Month-by-Month Celebration of Floral Embroidery

In this gorgeous volume, designer Frazer (Empowered Embroidery) showcases in-the-hoop embroidery designs inspired by birth flowers, the blooms associated with each month, similar to birthstones. The concept of birth flowers dates back to ancient Rome, Frazer explains. Some get their association based on the timing of when they bloom, while others are paired with a month because their color matches that month’s birthstone. Frazer offers patterns for each month’s birth flower and describes the symbolism of each. For June, crafters learn how to stitch a classic red rose, which symbolizes love and passion, and for November, they’re shown how to stitch golden chrysanthemums, which connote friendship and happiness. Other designs include morning glories for September, hollies for December, and daisies for April. Each is labeled with its difficulty level and contains a diagram of required stitches. Frazer also includes bonus designs that complement the floral patterns, such as butterflies, snails, and ladybugs. There is a section devoted to reviewing basic stitches, from backstitches and satin stitches to chain stitches and French knots, but the written instructions and illustrations may be confusing for novices. Still, this appealing collection will suit embroiderers who’ve mastered the basics. (Dec.)