Product Description
Appeals to a devoted community of embroiderers - including 40,000 subscribers of the author's magazine Designs in Machine Embroidery

Great value for the price - features 20 projects, plus a bonus CD-ROM with 30 original designs

Innovative ideas for transforming everyday garments into exceptional outfits

In half the time it takes to shop for the "right outfit," readers can create an original and stylish look, right in their own home. Contemporary Machine Embroidered Fashions instructs readers on how to create stylish outfits with a personal touch, through detailed instructions, and additional designs. This unique guide:*Offers insight on selecting the right fabrics, patterns and designs to achieve a desired look*Covers the tricks for using placement of embroidered designs to create a slimming effect in any outfit*Inspires readers to be their own designer

This easy-to-use and exciting reference successfully demonstrates that elaborate, artful and stylish looks are affordable. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

just what I was needing
I was strugling with some techniques with my machine.. this is just what I needed to fill in the gaps

Not worth high price
This book is not worth the high price many people are charging.I paid about $3.00 and that is just about what it's worth.Nothing new in here.

wonderful book
This is a great book and I am excited and anxious to try some of the projects.

Great pictures, cute ideas, blah designs
I love to embroider.I look around for blanks all the time, and embroider them to death.So I have drooled over this book for a while.I finally bought it, and was hugely disappointed.The first few pages are a refresher course on embroidery.It talks about stabilizer, threads, even machines. It shows how to hoop, and basically is a short course in how to get set to embroider.Then you get to the projects.Each project shows you a blank (an piece of clothing that has no embroidery or designs on it already), and it shows you how to dress it up.There is probably something for everyone in the book.There is a sweater, a top, jeans, a few dresses, and much more.Some of the ideas are very unique and original.However, what I really wanted the book for was the designs.What a mistake!The designs are pretty boring, absolutely nothing special.I am very surprised, as Eileen Roche has such beautiful designs through Amazing Designs.Anyway, it was my error to get the book without seeing all the designs first.

One thing that was really excellent about the book is how the placement of the designs was explained.If you have a hard time knowing where to put designs, this is a good book for that.Just don't think you are getting a bunch of gorgeous designs.

A thoroughly 'user friendly' manual of projects and concepts
Eileen Roche is the founding editor of 'Designs in Machine Embroidery' and so brings a special expertise to "Contemporary Machine-Embroidered Fashions: Transform Everyday Garments Into Designer Originals". Enhanced with a profusion of colorful illustrations, as well as the inclusion of a bonus CD offering 30 original designs, "Contemporary Machine-Embroidered Fashions" focuses upon fashion embroidery using the sewing machine. Needlecraft enthusiasts are provided with twenty projects with their step-by-step instructions and coordinating outfit ideas; techniques and tips for selecting and using blanks, notions, designs, templates, stabilizers, hoops and machines; as well as invaluable information on embroidering tops and bottoms, necklines, collars, cuffs, pockets, and trim. A thoroughly 'user friendly' manual of projects and concepts, "Contemporary Machine-Embroidered Fashions" will prove a welcome and even inspiring addition to needlecraft reference collections. ... Read more

Product Description
This book shows how anyone with a sewing machine can experiment with stitched patterns to create innovative embroideries. The book presents new ways of adapting stitch patterns on a variety of different fabrics and combining them with a range of techniques - hand-stitching, free machine embroidery, quilting, applique and beads. Swinging stitches, patterns and ribbons, stitching and slashing, quilting with patterns, machine-wrapped cords, stuffed ribbon braids and larger motifs are just some of the ideas included in this colourful book. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

A complete how-to of machine Needlelace
The book, Machine Needlelace and Other Embellishment Techniques, is very thorough on the materials needed, how-to, anddifferent projects . Thematerialscover everything fromthread and needles to fabric.The fabric detailsinvolve dyeing fabric and using different types of fabric. Very detailed! The how to's tell how to practice on samples and how to do complicated designs.I like lots of details for how to's, especially the pictures,whichit has. Picturesare next best to having a video or person show you.The projects are 2 piecedresses andvests and decorative home furnishing projects-- even pictures.The Lace is either floral, abstractcurved designs, orapplique combinations. It is a very complete and thorough book. That's why I ranked it a 5 star!!

A complete how-to of machine Needlelace
The book, Machine Needlelace, is very thorough on the materials needed, how-to, anddifferent projects . Thematerialscover everything fromthread and needles to fabric.The fabric detailsinvolve dyeing fabric and using different types of fabric. Very detailed! The how to's tell how to practice on samples and how to do complicated designs.I like lots of details for how to's, especially the pictures,whichit has. Picturesare next best to having a video or person show you.The projects are 2 piecedresses andvests and decorative home furnishing projects-- even pictures.The Lace is either floral, abstractcurved designs, orapplique combinations. It is a very complete and thorough book. That's why I ranked it a 5 star!! ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (8)

Excellence
Full of creative idea and I enjoy reading it!Good source for creative sewing project.

Advanced
This book was hard for me to understand!Maybe I just am not in that world of materials they used, very technical, and not what I thought, although it may be good for some, had some nice pictures and projects in it.

Stitch Dissolve distort
The book arrived in perfect order. Information.Good project to develop my skills and try some new techniques to me.

Inspiration
Wow!What a fun way to alter fabric!The techniques shown and described offer a whole new way of changing fabric for unusual useage.I have used several of these techniques in my art pieces and the outcome is spectacular.

nice pictures
But not enough closeup pictures or details on what was done on most of the items. Would have enjoyed more detail on the techniques. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Alphabet Stitchery by Hand and Machine
Prompt Service, book in excellent condition.

Alphabet Stitchery
I was very disappointed with this book. It wasn't the teaching aid I thought it would be. ... Read more

Product Description
A recent development in machine embroidery techniques has been a move towards techniques which produce lacy and transparent effects. Moyra McNeill describes in planned stages a variety of experimental techniques which can be developed on the domestic sewing machine and shows how these techniques can be applied to both decorative and utilitarian items. The first chapters give advice on choosing a machine and explain the basic techniques of machine embroidery. The author goes on to describe the various chemical laces - vanishing muslins, acetate and water-soluble fabric - explaining the method of dissolving the background material and suggesting items to make for practice. A chapter on working on net shows how to make a variety of light, lacy articles including a wedding veil, a curtain and a parasol. There are also sections on pulled work muslin and scrim, cutwork, layering see-through fabrics, tape lace and working on plastic. A final chapter about design gives some suggestions for design starting points and their possible interpretations. Throughout the book, instructions are illustrated with diagrams, sketches and photographs.The book is aimed at both beginners and those with some experience. Moyra McNeill is also the author of "Pulled Thread" and "Quilting for Today". ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Basic Learning. . .
I began doing machine embroidery more than 20 years ago, before we had the computerized machines and certainly before the current crop of automatic embroidery machines were available.The secret to doing decent freehand embroidery, yes, on ANY machine, is to practice, practice, practice, and then practice some more.I am amazed when I show my work to those new in the interest that they expect to sit down one day and turn out some sort of masterpiece!This is an art form like any other, and it is not mastered in a day, or a year for that matter.We have beautiful examples of machine embroidery done in the 19th century on straight-stitch-only machines, and it can still be done.Personally, I seldom use more than the straight and zigzag stitches on my machines, some of which have decorative stitches by the dozens.This is an entirely different discipline than the new 'automatic' machines which will stitch your design for you.I have no interest in those.In the 70's and 80's there were many excellent books written on freehand embroidery by machine.The best is Robbie Fanning's "Complete Book of Machine Embroidery".You can still buy it used through Amazon's network.It's the best, and at the same time you might want to also order her "Complete Book of Machine Quilting".

I have owned many, many sewing machines, and believe me, you can indeed do machine embroidery on any machine that works!

Teach Yourself machine Embroidery: Easy Decorative Stitching
Delivery was slow, however, the book was in excellent condition.

Good source book
For the person that is transitioning from a mechanical to computerized sewing machine, this is a good source book.Clear instructions and diagrams.Wish there were more in color. Nice patterns and lots of projects to try and perfect.Would recommend.

This book doesn't deliver what the cover promises.
Proving yet again that you can't judge a book by its cover, this one promises "easy decorative stitching using ANY sewing machine."However, the examples on the cover required programmed stitches...which Idon't have on my machine...which is why I ordered this book in the firstplace.The book seems to provide a well-organized, clear, and thoroughexplanation of the more pictorial types of machine embroidery, but I washoping for some ideas about how to do the decorative stitches on the coveron my beloved but very basic machine. ... Read more

Product Description
*Projects feature a variety of fabrics and threads readily available at local fabric orquilt shops

Tis' the season, for anything machine embroidered. Inside the pages of this smart guide you will discover 200+ color photos featuring fresh ideas for decorating and entertaining at any event, during every season of the year. The themed projects in this step-by-step guide include a birthday party, beach outing, New Year's celebration, and a fall wine-tasting party. The bonus CD contains 40 embroidery designs and 15+ projects that deliver more ideas, excitement and skill-building opportunities ... Read more

Product Description
Hop To It Machine Embroidery CD Now in addition to being able to applique these blocks from the Hop to It book by Edyta Sitar, they are available to machine embroider blocks in either 8" x 8" and 5" x 5" on this Cd. Create your own "applique" quilt with beautfully machine embroidered applique blocks. CD includes extensive thread charts and colors plus complete directions for cover quilt. The thread charts include colors and yards of thread needed for each block. ... Read more

Product Description
Piecing and stitching a landscape adds one-of-a-kindappeal to any garment, accessory, or home dec item. From dramaticmountain vistas to tranquil lake views, any scene can be quickly andeasily stitched to create a highly personal wearable or individualizedaccessory.

From fabric choices to decorative stitches to finishing details, thisbook guides readers to successfully add landscapes to jackets, vests,wall hangings, picture frames, tote bags, purses, pillows, andgreeting cards. Everything is clearly and simply explained, from basicsupplies, machine set-up, thread and fabric choices, and theconstruction process, to finishing details. Patterns for sample scenesare included.

-Decorative stitches & threads.
-Embellishing techniques.
-How to create a design.
-The construction process. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Fabric Landscapes by Machine
I bought this book to give me ideas for designing landscapes via embroidery. From looking through it I believe it will be a benefit.

Fabric Landscape book
Great product, book is in excellent condition, arrived very quickly, would definately recommend this seller A++++++++++++++.Thanks again so much.

Starting to Do Fabric Landscaps
Excellent directions from start to finish.Easy to understand, learn to select fabrics, make a pattern, put it together and embellish it.It's that easy.A wonderful book for the person who wants to do a landscape quilt and doesn't know where/how to begin.Good examples and pleasant reading.I puchased two additional copies for friends.

Fabric Landscapes by Machine
I got a few unexpected bonus' with this book.It has a pattern to make a vest with a landscape as well as several patterns.The work is explained and the color pictures were a help in understanding the methods outlined in the book.Good graphics as well as examples are in the book.

great wearable art ideas
My book arrived just 2 days ago and I stayed up late scouring it from cover to cover (had to wait until the kids were in bed for quiet time).I'm not much into quilting, but love creating unique and unusual things, especially wearable art.This book is perfect.If you are a quilter you'll love the ideas to take your hobby to the next level. If you are more of a sewer, you'll be impressed by the detailed (and simple)instructions that make this form of quilting quick, easy and intriguing.To top it off, the book comes with 4 of the authors very own landscape quilt patterns plus another pattern for turning a lanscape quilt into a vest.The patterns alone are worth the cost of the book.

I ran out today and purchased fabrics to make a woodland scene and can't wait to get started.I also happen to be lucky enough to have a top of the line sewing and embroidery machine, so I can use it to further embellish my landscape quilt.But to be honest, with all the great ideas, techniques, thread and fabric suggestions the author has given, you do not need one of these fancy machines to make a work of art.This is a neat, neat book! ... Read more

Product Description
Explore the technique of using a machine for the traditional craft of embroidery, with 25 stunning examples to create in both contemporary and traditional styles. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Lots of good ideas
Let's face it. There just aren't many machine embroidery books from whichto choose. For the price, this one is darn good. It is geared towards freemotion embroidery so it is suitable for all models of sewing machines. Itfeatures 25 projects that are well explained and plenty of full colorphotographs. The projects include jewelery, accessories, and clothing forthe most part- all with a very modern look. No heirloom or handembroidery look alikes. Everthing very proudly says I am a unique machinework of art. ... Read more

Product Description
In this volume Kristen Dibbs introduces 11 of Australia's textile artists and teachers of machine embroidery as they discuss their work and reveal their sources of inspiration. Each artist has designed a project especially for this title. ... Read more

Product Description
All in color! Apply freestyle hand stitching, hardanger, cutwork, hand and machine applique, and other embroidery techniques to everyday objects, including clothing and soft furnishings. Interpretations of flowers in stitches adorn a summer hat, a shot-velvet stole, and brooches. City images and architecture are the themes used on a window covering, hair clasps, and a cushion. Nautical designs grace a tablecloth, greeting cards, and a wrap. Global and ethnic influences find their way onto an evening bag, a vest, and a cushion. And food motifs brighten a sampler, shelf edging, and a tablecloth. Techniques, materials, and equipment, including information on transferring motifs and templates from the book to fabric, are treated in separate chapters. Color galleries introducing each of the themes can be used as inspiration for your own designs. There's plenty here to stretch and challenge the skills of novice and experienced embroiderers alike. Trim size: 8 3/4 x 11 1/2. ... Read more

Product Description
*Great value - at $24.99 with 20 designs this book gives you detailed instruction and more for your money

Machine embroiderers are natural over achievers, and given the nearly endless possibilities for using an embroidery machine it's easy to see why. This book feeds your need for more machine embroidery opportunities by exploring the world of blanks through:

*Advice about finding blanks, both online and in local shops
*Tips for choosing threads and stabilizers
*Insight on placement guidelines of common and unique blanks
*Embroidery techniques for home décor, baby and children, and seasonal items ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Too Many Blanks, Not Enough Filler
Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R118B90015D7D8 Fill in the Blanks with Machine Embroidery / 978-0-89689-483-9

I may be getting cynical with age, but I can't help but feel that there are far too many niche hobby books out there that were rushed into publication as quickly and shoddily as possible to snare as much money out of hobbyists with as little effort as possible.

Which isn't to say that "Fill in the Blanks" is a *bad* book - it's not really "bad", so much as it's shallow and rushed. Most of the "suggested" fill areas are the pretty standard pick-and-mix of center, corner, and along one side, and that's not really something that a new embroidery enthusiast is going to need help understanding. Indeed, I can't help but feel that All About Machine Arts or Machine Embroidery Room by Room have far more creative placement ideas for patterns.

In fact, a great deal about this book feels "off" and slightly unprofessional - as if it were written by an amateur rather than a professional. The length is incredibly short (47 pages), the patterns are very small and 'cartoony' and feel much like the cheaper patterns one can find for free online, and the placement is almost always dead-center and rarely repeated. Nearly all the suggested projects are just a single picture of a pre-prepared "blank" bought at a craft store - like a drink mug with an embroidered inset area and you just embroider your little pattern, stick it into the mug and voila! That kind of project feels more like a project for a child than an adult, and frankly I don't want "blanks" that I have to specifically go out and buy at the Blank Store - I want to be inspired to find blanks around my home and work areas to fill in.

Another odd thing about this book is that a good fair portion of the shown embroidery designs in the book are NOT the free embroidery designs included, which is pretty annoying. And of the designs included with the book, most of them are repeats with minor alterations - something that particularly annoys me when two patterns could easily have been one, but with some creative color-stepping through the machine.

All told, this feels more like a magazine than a book, and a cheap one at that. Unless you just really like the embroidery designs shown in the video review, I'd pass on this one.

Great Ideas for Beginners
I am just getting into machine embroidery and am always looking for new ideas and help implementing them.This book fills the bill.I has lots of pictures and hints for successful projects. ... Read more

Product Description