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Embroidered Lettering: Techniques and Alphabets for Creating 25 Expressive Projects (Design Originals) Clever Needlework Ideas to Add Modern Messages to Coasters, Bags, Patches, Pillows, Towels & More
Express yourself with embroidery! Inside Embroidered Lettering you'll find 25 fun and unique embroidery lettering projects that feature heartfelt sentiments and witty statements. Innovative designer and author Debra Valencia combines some of her favorite embroidery designs with creative lettering in this inventive book. She provides step-by-step instructions for 24 useful stitches, useful advice on tools and materials, and 7 alphabet templates to use in customizing your own designs. Learn how to use the traditional craft of embroidery to add a modern message to coasters, tote bags, throw pillows, tea towels, monograms, luggage tags, an eyeglass case and more!
- GenresCraftsNonfictionArt
176 pages, Paperback
Published March 11, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
April 16, 2019
***Advance Review Copy generously provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I'm pleasantly surprised here. I always wanted to learn how to embroider things but I'm a slow learner in this direction.
I really appreciate that the book took care to show the different stitches. Because that was one of my problems, I know their names in Czech (or French) but sometimes I'm struggling how exactly they are called in English and I often found myself confused by directions. Therefore, I enjoyed that this book started with the basics but at the same time showed several projects which are not basic but something that you can really do and use. I really like that.
I already chose two projects I need to do asap (and I also chose several more for later because they seem more time consuming). I really loved the embroider coasters and the tea towels.
My only issue is that sometimes in the instruction for the projects I feel like the pictures were too small to really understand what the author is trying to show to us. And then there were pictures so big that they took over the whole page when it was absolutely unnecessary.
I'm pleasantly surprised here. I always wanted to learn how to embroider things but I'm a slow learner in this direction.
I really appreciate that the book took care to show the different stitches. Because that was one of my problems, I know their names in Czech (or French) but sometimes I'm struggling how exactly they are called in English and I often found myself confused by directions. Therefore, I enjoyed that this book started with the basics but at the same time showed several projects which are not basic but something that you can really do and use. I really like that.
I already chose two projects I need to do asap (and I also chose several more for later because they seem more time consuming). I really loved the embroider coasters and the tea towels.
My only issue is that sometimes in the instruction for the projects I feel like the pictures were too small to really understand what the author is trying to show to us. And then there were pictures so big that they took over the whole page when it was absolutely unnecessary.
November 9, 2018
My God, this book is exactly what I was looking for. There is a Embroidery stitch, you can find many useful projects (No rain No rainbows looks nice) and the color diagrams helps. First of all I want to try some bookmarks.
Beautiful work!
Thank Netgalley and the author for this copy.
Beautiful work!
Thank Netgalley and the author for this copy.
August 22, 2019
I’ve just started practicing embroidery techniques and thought this book would be useful to get me pointed in the right direction and it has!
Aside from offering tips and tricks, this book has 25 projects for you to try! I found it easy to follow and was extremely happy with how my practice projects came out! I plan to prepare a few for friends and family using the book for guidance. I know I can’t go wrong!
Aside from offering tips and tricks, this book has 25 projects for you to try! I found it easy to follow and was extremely happy with how my practice projects came out! I plan to prepare a few for friends and family using the book for guidance. I know I can’t go wrong!
October 30, 2018
The first third or so of the book covers how to make the various stitches needed for the included designs as well as advice on choosing fabrics and framing/finishing methods. Both written instruction and illustrative photos are included which provide clear, easy to follow instruction. The designs are varied enough that most stitches will find something of interest and also be able to use ideas and techniques from the included projects to branch out and make up their own or customize. My favorites are the reduce, reuse, recycle tote appliqué and the bookmarks.
Thank you to Fox Chapel Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Fox Chapel Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 27, 2018
Clear, step-by-step instructions and photos, fun projects of varying skill levels, pretty alphabets that are easily adaptable. I'd recommend this to both beginning and experienced needleworkers looking for inspiration and ideas for gift giving, craft fairs, or a treat for themselves.
November 4, 2018
I would like to thank netgalley and Fox Chapel Publishing for the opportunity to read this book.
Cute patterns! I can't wait to try them out.
Cute patterns! I can't wait to try them out.
December 31, 2018
* Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with a digital copy to review *
Given the title and the gorgeous cover image, I expected this book to focus more lettering - on stitchable alphabets, alphabet styles (e.g. script, handwritten, serif, sans serif) and monograms. Although all 25 projects feature stitched type very few of them spoke to me. Besides the pretty ribbon embroidered M on the cover, I liked the stitched sneakers and vintage style Love jeans patch the best. The watercolour background technique used in the No Rain, No Rainbows hoop was interesting and something I would like to have seen explained in more detail.
Also, I don't think the cover project is a good representation of the contents. I expected more pretty projects along those lines and instead the author tends toward funky retro styled projects. She also has a quirky sense of humour, evident from the labelled Top/Bottom towel, "This is Where the Magic Happens" bedroom pillow, and "Four Eyed and Fabulous" glasses case.
There is a good Tools & Materials section with a Stitch Guide that includes some interesting stitches like the Couching Trellis Stitch. The stitches are done as step by step photos instead of drawn diagrams which is nice and easy to follow. Best for a very determined beginner or an intermediate stitcher, with the project stitch guides often telling you to reference the photo for detail and colour placement.
However there is a huge drawback to this book and that is the Pattern Templates. Unfortunately there appears to be no download link to virtual copies and the scale at which they are reproduced is far to fine for easy enlargement. Asking someone to enlarge at 150% is bad enough but several patterns - including the lovely floral alphabet on the cover - say to enlarge by 500%!! Needless to say, a scanner would be necessary to resize the templates to working size and I do not think that should be required in this day and age. It's disappointing, and hopefully something the publishers will remedy with future editions.
Given the title and the gorgeous cover image, I expected this book to focus more lettering - on stitchable alphabets, alphabet styles (e.g. script, handwritten, serif, sans serif) and monograms. Although all 25 projects feature stitched type very few of them spoke to me. Besides the pretty ribbon embroidered M on the cover, I liked the stitched sneakers and vintage style Love jeans patch the best. The watercolour background technique used in the No Rain, No Rainbows hoop was interesting and something I would like to have seen explained in more detail.
Also, I don't think the cover project is a good representation of the contents. I expected more pretty projects along those lines and instead the author tends toward funky retro styled projects. She also has a quirky sense of humour, evident from the labelled Top/Bottom towel, "This is Where the Magic Happens" bedroom pillow, and "Four Eyed and Fabulous" glasses case.
There is a good Tools & Materials section with a Stitch Guide that includes some interesting stitches like the Couching Trellis Stitch. The stitches are done as step by step photos instead of drawn diagrams which is nice and easy to follow. Best for a very determined beginner or an intermediate stitcher, with the project stitch guides often telling you to reference the photo for detail and colour placement.
However there is a huge drawback to this book and that is the Pattern Templates. Unfortunately there appears to be no download link to virtual copies and the scale at which they are reproduced is far to fine for easy enlargement. Asking someone to enlarge at 150% is bad enough but several patterns - including the lovely floral alphabet on the cover - say to enlarge by 500%!! Needless to say, a scanner would be necessary to resize the templates to working size and I do not think that should be required in this day and age. It's disappointing, and hopefully something the publishers will remedy with future editions.
March 11, 2019
This book is great for beginner in that Debra Valencia gives a basic overview of the tools and materials used in embroidery, and includes some helpful tips as well. Her embroidery stitch guide gives step by step, detailed descriptions of creating a variety of stitches supported by photographs that clearly depict stitch construction. The 25 projects are contemporary, and are divided into four groups: hoops and frames, home décor, accessories and clothing. While they won't all be for everyone, there is something for most everyone.
I received a copy of the book from Fox Chapel Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. This advanced copy did not include the project templates or the alphabet patterns, so I cannot address the ease with which these features are used, but considering the high quality of the other features, I am sure these are more than adequate. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review, and received no monetary compensation.
I received a copy of the book from Fox Chapel Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. This advanced copy did not include the project templates or the alphabet patterns, so I cannot address the ease with which these features are used, but considering the high quality of the other features, I am sure these are more than adequate. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review, and received no monetary compensation.
November 7, 2018
Embroidered Lettering is a very versatile, unique book. There are 25 projects, but with the alphabet included you can make many more projects and replace words and letters with your own version! I love that mixed arts are included to make the embroidery stand out, like using watercolors on fabric to create a rainbow.
There is an extensive guide on how to transfer patterns, and a library of all the stitches and my favorite that almost never gets included: how do you deal with the back of hoops when it is finished? The instructions are very clear with plenty of pictures.
The projects itself are very modern and trendy, and will be liked especially by a younger audience - and by younger I mean people in their teens and 20s-30s. There are also cool items including likes coasters, door stops and make up bags. I can really recommend this book to everyone basically!
There is an extensive guide on how to transfer patterns, and a library of all the stitches and my favorite that almost never gets included: how do you deal with the back of hoops when it is finished? The instructions are very clear with plenty of pictures.
The projects itself are very modern and trendy, and will be liked especially by a younger audience - and by younger I mean people in their teens and 20s-30s. There are also cool items including likes coasters, door stops and make up bags. I can really recommend this book to everyone basically!
November 25, 2018
*~.Book Analysis.~*
Just remembering that those were my impressions and opinion as a reader :)
Rating: 5 stars
Reading period: Nov. 25th, 2018
Format: ebook
Source: NetGalley – I have received this book in exchange for an honest review.
Release date: March 12th, 2019
PROS
There are so many wonderful tips and designs! We learn all types of embroidery and how to do small to big details! Also, the author indicates best materials and colors in each project, illustrating each step very well. This books makes you want to do embroidered lettering!
CONS
I honestly can’t think of any!
COVER ANALYSIS
My real first name starts with the letter M, so this cover caught up my attention at once! It is so simple and delicate, I love it. <3
RECOMMENDED FOR
Readers with a passion for DIY works!
Just remembering that those were my impressions and opinion as a reader :)
Rating: 5 stars
Reading period: Nov. 25th, 2018
Format: ebook
Source: NetGalley – I have received this book in exchange for an honest review.
Release date: March 12th, 2019
PROS
There are so many wonderful tips and designs! We learn all types of embroidery and how to do small to big details! Also, the author indicates best materials and colors in each project, illustrating each step very well. This books makes you want to do embroidered lettering!
CONS
I honestly can’t think of any!
COVER ANALYSIS
My real first name starts with the letter M, so this cover caught up my attention at once! It is so simple and delicate, I love it. <3
RECOMMENDED FOR
Readers with a passion for DIY works!
January 22, 2019
A very well written instructional book on learning basic embroidery skills. As the name of the book implies, this book revolves around embroidery projects involving text or decorative lettering. I have to admit that not all of the projects appealed to me on an aesthetic level.
Despite that, I liked that each of the project utilize different skills and techniques which can be applied to creating or inspiring your own embroidery design.
The author's coverage on embroidery tools and materials is written for beginners in mind. The stitch library instructional in this book is one of the clearest execution I have seen with step by step photos and detailed captions.
I would recommend this book for beginners in embroidery.
I was given a digital ARC from Netgalley to give my honest opinion.
Despite that, I liked that each of the project utilize different skills and techniques which can be applied to creating or inspiring your own embroidery design.
The author's coverage on embroidery tools and materials is written for beginners in mind. The stitch library instructional in this book is one of the clearest execution I have seen with step by step photos and detailed captions.
I would recommend this book for beginners in embroidery.
I was given a digital ARC from Netgalley to give my honest opinion.
December 8, 2021
Why does this book have so many good reviews? This book isn’t for people who want to learn to embroider letters.
It promises, falsely, to show you “dozens of essential stitches” with “step-by-step instructions”. One would think the stitches chosen would be essential for lettering, as that is the whole purpose for this book. Instead the author wastes space on frivolous stitches even she doesn’t use in her own patterns in this book!
The stitches essential to lettering, such as the Backstitch, she only shows you how to create a straight line. There is zero mention of how to handle corners, curves or loops. Her patterns unhelpfully say, “stitch the text”.
The purpose of this book is made clear when you flip to the back and see that the author identifies each color of embroidery floss used in projects. It is a sale catalog for people to go out and buy DMC floss only.
It promises, falsely, to show you “dozens of essential stitches” with “step-by-step instructions”. One would think the stitches chosen would be essential for lettering, as that is the whole purpose for this book. Instead the author wastes space on frivolous stitches even she doesn’t use in her own patterns in this book!
The stitches essential to lettering, such as the Backstitch, she only shows you how to create a straight line. There is zero mention of how to handle corners, curves or loops. Her patterns unhelpfully say, “stitch the text”.
The purpose of this book is made clear when you flip to the back and see that the author identifies each color of embroidery floss used in projects. It is a sale catalog for people to go out and buy DMC floss only.
August 25, 2020
This is a beautiful book that gives inspiration for creating beautiful lettering of many kinds. Lettering can be so hard to get right on an embroidery project so it's wonderful to see so many creative ideas for making it work, no matter the project. From chunky initial letters exploding with a bouquet of blooms gorgeous enough to stand alone, to delicate cursive in stem stitch suitable for adding text to almost any grander project, this book has you covered. The alphabet patterns at the back of the book are an incredibly valuable resource, and for the novice stitcher the stitch guides at the front are clear and useful.
This would be a great reference for any stitcher.
This would be a great reference for any stitcher.
March 26, 2019
As a life long cross stitcher, I have always looked at embroidery with some trepidation. It just looked too hard! But this book has alleviated some of my hesitancy towards this craft. It offers detailed instructions on numerous different embroidery stitches. There are also useful pictures to go along with those instructions. And to top it all off, there is a wide variety of different projects. I thought the book was well thought out and easy to follow. I see myself making good use of the information provided.
My thanks to Fox Chapel Publishing and Netgalley.
My thanks to Fox Chapel Publishing and Netgalley.
May 29, 2020
Perfect if you are looking to get involved in some embroidery projects. Each of the 25 projects featured are presented into small details, with relatively easy to follow instructions and with relatively nice results. You don´t even need too much experience, as in the introductory part the stitch guide and the explanation about different techniques makes things easy to follow. Recommended if you are about to start an embroidery hobby or just looking to do something different.
Disclaimer: Book offered by the published in exchange for an honest review
Disclaimer: Book offered by the published in exchange for an honest review
January 4, 2019
Embroidered Lettering is full of inspiration. As embroidery has become all the rage again this book answers the call. The photographs are clear and colorful. The author provides instruction for 24 different types of embroidery stitches. She also provides oodles of projects to put your new skills to work. There are 25 projects in this lovely book. The author also has seven different alphabet templates to use. Excellent book.
January 28, 2020
Everything you need to know and lots of projects.
The instructions with photos for the stitches make them easy to follow and there is a greater variety of stitches shown than standard. Also includes a useful section on design transfer methods.
The projects are diverse and templates are included with each project rather than all at the back, which is convenient (alphabet templates excluded, these are at the back).
The instructions with photos for the stitches make them easy to follow and there is a greater variety of stitches shown than standard. Also includes a useful section on design transfer methods.
The projects are diverse and templates are included with each project rather than all at the back, which is convenient (alphabet templates excluded, these are at the back).
October 29, 2018
After years of putting any form of needlework to one side, i have recently started to enjoy once again, doing some embroidery. This book has given me encouragement, with some beautiful designs and easy to follow instructions. Recommended.
My thanks to Netgalley and the Publishers for my copy. This is my honest review.
My thanks to Netgalley and the Publishers for my copy. This is my honest review.
December 5, 2018
Lovely embroidery book.
Good, clear instructions and advice on the different type of stitches.
Nice selection of craft ideas and projects.
An advanced reader copy was kindly provided by the publisher via Netgalley
Good, clear instructions and advice on the different type of stitches.
Nice selection of craft ideas and projects.
An advanced reader copy was kindly provided by the publisher via Netgalley
December 8, 2018
This is a lovely book of unique designs and filled with great instructions on different stitches. I have earmarked a couple of projects that I would love to create.
Disclaimer: A digital copy of this book was provided to me by NetGallery in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Disclaimer: A digital copy of this book was provided to me by NetGallery in exchange for a fair and honest review.
December 9, 2018
Great projects and detailed instructions on embroidery methods.
Useful for beginners and intermediates alike.
This could make a great gift for any crafty enthusiast.
Note: I received an ARC for review and an honest and unbiased opinion.
Useful for beginners and intermediates alike.
This could make a great gift for any crafty enthusiast.
Note: I received an ARC for review and an honest and unbiased opinion.
September 7, 2019
Great instructions-clear and easy to follow. While some of the projects are hit or miss for my personal aesthetics, they provide an opportunity to practice fundamentals.
I received an advanced copy from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received an advanced copy from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 15, 2019
This is a great source for beginners and experienced people who embroider. I enjoyed looking through the book and gathered several new ideas for upcoming projects.
April 24, 2019
Good overview of basic stitches. Adding to my want to purchase list.
July 10, 2019
The explanation is easy to understand and the colourful images are helpful to embroider our own designs.
March 10, 2022
This has some great letter templates in it that I will use in the future.
July 6, 2024
I was disappointed by this book I thought it would be more on letter embroidery. It were very few having to do with the subject. Though it is well detailed on the projects in the book.
October 19, 2019
Embroidery Lettering
by Debra Valencia
A great book for someone just starting out learning how to Embroider lettering; but, can be used as a helpful guild for someone that has not embroidered for a while. The book of Embroidery Lettering features 25 projects; which includes instructions, templates and covers the basics of hand embroidery from start to finish, including the tools needed and material used. Ms. Valencia shows her readers how to transfer patterns, how to finish projects for display or for gift giving; but the most important part of how to do the various stitches, step-by-step instructions with photos for each step that is sure to increase the confidence of anyone just starting out with this craft.
The directions are very clear, and easy to follow along with the illustrations and photographs that can assist the users that are a visual learner. This is an excellent manual for taking one’s embroidery skills to another level. The projects are creative and useful in being able to help the user to create projects for themselves. This book would make an excellent gift for anyone that has a crafter.
I enjoyed reading Embroidered Lettering, brought back memories of my childhood. This was a craft that mothers used to teach their daughters. Having read this book, I have started back embroidering. I personally would have changed the types of drink projects to a non-alcoholic; which would make the book better suited for young crafters. I received an advance reading copy Fox Chapel Publishing, I am writing my honest review and giving the book and author a 4.5-star rating. I was not obligated to write a review, for receiving aa advanced copy.
by Debra Valencia
A great book for someone just starting out learning how to Embroider lettering; but, can be used as a helpful guild for someone that has not embroidered for a while. The book of Embroidery Lettering features 25 projects; which includes instructions, templates and covers the basics of hand embroidery from start to finish, including the tools needed and material used. Ms. Valencia shows her readers how to transfer patterns, how to finish projects for display or for gift giving; but the most important part of how to do the various stitches, step-by-step instructions with photos for each step that is sure to increase the confidence of anyone just starting out with this craft.
The directions are very clear, and easy to follow along with the illustrations and photographs that can assist the users that are a visual learner. This is an excellent manual for taking one’s embroidery skills to another level. The projects are creative and useful in being able to help the user to create projects for themselves. This book would make an excellent gift for anyone that has a crafter.
I enjoyed reading Embroidered Lettering, brought back memories of my childhood. This was a craft that mothers used to teach their daughters. Having read this book, I have started back embroidering. I personally would have changed the types of drink projects to a non-alcoholic; which would make the book better suited for young crafters. I received an advance reading copy Fox Chapel Publishing, I am writing my honest review and giving the book and author a 4.5-star rating. I was not obligated to write a review, for receiving aa advanced copy.
October 31, 2018
Lots and lots of patterns. I especially liked the tea towels and the coasters. You will not be disappointed wither the variety in this book. So gather your supplies and sit down to stitch one of these lovely designs. Big thanks to NetGalley for the free book and to the author and publisher so I could view this book. Planning many projects.
November 11, 2018
I found the information about the stitches very good and well illustrated with photos. The projects were probably not to my liking except the pineapple - loved the pineapple!!! but all in all the projects were very simple and just right for someone with little time or someone learning about embroidery.
A nice book to start with.
A nice book to start with.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews