Not your momma's embroidery

I learned to embroidery at about age 8.  My mom helped me put initials on handkerchiefs and Sunbonnet Sue on dish towels.  I have done a few pillowcases since then so I was interested to see what’s up with the craft currently.  I came across Better Homes and Garden’s Embroidery 2012.  I was amazed to see embroidery embellishing a wooden cabinet, on a crate, on a plate, and used to enhance handmade cards.  It has come far from handkerchiefs.  The book features a project that uses large knots of wool roving to create flower buds…hum I can see all kinds of applications for that one.  My favorite is the look of the heirloom ribbon embroidery.  The book ends with basic stitch instructions and finishing techniques.  The bonus is a sheet of full size patterns!!  P.S. I found it free at the local library or you can buy it on Amazon.

Woodburning ???

I have to admit that woodburning is way out of my comfort zone at this point.  I picked up the book by Deborah Pompano and was in awe of her artistic talent.  The book outlines tools of the trade and shows some pretty fantastic creations.  One consolation is that it appears that you can trace a design on to the wood; whoa, you don’t have to freehand the project, which is somewhat comforting.  I enjoyed looking at the projects but the passion and talent just aren’t there for me.  Also, the tools are not in the budget.  I would recommend this for someone who is artistic and fanatic about attention to details.  I could also see that zentangles enthusiasts might like to move from ink to woodburning tools.  Let me know what you think.

Freehand Machine Embroidery

Machine embroidery produces some fantastic stuff but what about those of us who don't have the need or the funds for such fancy smancy equipment?  I wondered if it is possible to embroider with a regular sewing machine.  I did a little research and found Poppy Treffy's Freehand Machine Embroidery.

Using her instructions I did a few trial attempts. 

No too bad.  It needs more work on the tension but this has great potential.  Be sure to mark somehow the tension setting on your sewing machine so you can easily return to the former settings.  The book has several projects to do or to use as a springboard for your own ideas.  I purchased this book from B and N, but of course check your local library first.

Holiday craft ideas

It is probably cheesy but I wanted to see the ideas Martha had for holiday decoration.  I am pleased to report that she lived up to her reputation of clever easy craft ideas, best of all most of them are cheap!  I tried her Easter egg decorating ideas and appeared above average ingenious when company arrived for Easter dinner.  The projects have clear instructions with pictures for those who only read instructions as a last resort—yeah, you know who you are.  This book was publish in 2011 so it is a few year old so may not be available at your favorite craft store but can be purchased on Amazon.  Or better yet check your local library.