Animal Embroidery Workbook: Step-by-Step Techniques & Patterns for 30 Cute Critters & More (Landauer) Designs include Foxes, Sloths, Hedgehogs, Giraffes, Cats, Chickadees, Pandas, Bees, Flowers & More

by Jessica Long

Embroider a menagerie of 30 adorable animals! From a sweet giraffe and a happy cat to a sly little red fox and a friendly hedgehog, Cute Critters features step-by-step instructions and dozens of easy-to-use patterns to create embroidery hoops for all your favorite animals with charming floral details. Intermediate embroiderers will pick them up in no time, and beginners can tackle the simpler projects and further their skills with the more complicated designs. Also included is basic introductory information about materials and supplies, techniques - such as template transfer and setting up a double hoop - and a guide to basic stitches. These clear, usable embroidery patterns are designed and written by author Jessica Long, founder of Namaste Embroidery where she shares her patterns, kits, tutorials, and more.

Genres: Crafts, Nonfiction, Sewing, Reference, Art

208 pages, Paperback

Published September 21, 2020

Reviews

[Melki · Rating 5 out of 5]

If the hedgehog clutching a bouquet on the cover doesn't melt your heart - you have no soul!



All the how-to bases are covered here, from pattern transfer steps through finishing techniques. There are plenty of sweet projects to choose from, including a smiling sloth that will brighten anyone's day.



Projects for beginners are included as well, with easy-to-follow instructions.



This one is definitely worth owning!

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a chance to ooh and aah over this book.

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I learned embroidery from my grandmother as an eight-year-old girl but put it away until earlier this year when the pandemic sent me to work from home. I discovered Jessica Long on Instagram and YouTube as a needlework craftsperson of epic proportions. Her knowledge of her craft is immense, and her ability to teach and share is a beautiful thing. When I saw she had written a book about her sweet animal critters and that it was available to review on NetGalley, I jumped at the chance.

This book is an excellent tutorial for beginning to advanced needleworkers. Jessica describes in detail to beginner embroiderers how to prepare fabric, what to buy, how to embroider, and how to trace the patterns. You name it, and she will tell you how to do it. She also provides patterns for her sweet and lovely animal patterns that have garnered her many fans.

I highly recommend this book to any needlecraft fans, whether just starting out or veterans looking to add to their repertoire. Embroidery is a relaxing and satisfying hobby that I recommend to everyone, and I thank NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book. I gave it five stars!

[Montzalee Wittmann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cute Critters: An Embroidery Pattern Compendium by Jessica Long is a book I requested from NetGalley and the review is voluntary. This has the most darling patterns and pictures! I am a beginner and I am sure I can make a half decent attempt at some of the simpler patterns and with practice and following the instructions, build up to the others! The step-by-step instructions seem clear and the photos help. The end results of these cute creatures is a real incentive! The patterns and steps are all there! If you are already an intermediate level then you should have lots of fun!

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

The animal embroidery workbook is a workbook for “beginners” and I’m glad the author shared her journey about how she started embroidery and why.
This includes all the basic stuff on:
• Hoops
• Transferring patterns
• Stitches
• Floss
The book is full of colorful illustrations and 30 step by step projects to try. She also give helpful insight for making all of this easier. She shares her own tips and experiences on how to create these cute projects.
I highly recommend this book for anyone who wants to give embroidery a try.
Thank you Fox Chapel Publishing via Netgalley for this free ARC. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.

[Monique · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! The instructions are very clear, and the patterns progressed im difficulty so it’s easy to grow im embroidery skills for a beginner while also being very interested for the advanced stitcher. But above all, I love the cute animals, they are very modern and hip, not dull or old fashioned at all, and there are so many patterns I want to stitch it’ll be difficult to choose.

[The Candid Cover (Olivia & Lori) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full Review on The Candid Cover

4.5 Stars

Animal Embroidery Workbook by Jessica Long is a super cute embroidery how-to book that will be useful for all skill levels. The instructions are clear and concise with many images to inspire some whimsical creations. If you are looking for a modern book of embroidery patterns, this is one to try.

Jessica Long has been an inspiration for so many with her whimsical embroidery protects and this book is so exciting because it gives the opportunity to create some of her patterns at home. She writes in a very easy to follow manner and provides lots of tips for success. There is also an equipment list that is very handy for those just getting their feet wet.

THE CONTENTS OF THE BOOK ARE AS FOLLOWS:

Part 1: Starting Your Menagerie

Materials and Supplies
Pattern Transfer Techniques
Getting Started
Finishing Techniques
Stitch Guide
Part 2: Critter Projects

Easy Beginner Animals
Confident Beginner Creatures
Beginner Thread Painting Critters
Thread Painting a Menagerie

❀ LOTS OF CUTE DESIGNS

There are lots of cute designs and patterns to transfer and I love that there is an abundance of images that show the steps in depth. I started with a cute dog pattern and it was so much fun to create and I am really pleased with the results. There are some more difficult patterns to create that I am excited to progress towards. This book sets you up for success at any skill level, and that is something that I really appreciate in any how-to book.

❀ A MUST-HAVE EMBROIDERY BOOK

Animal Embroidery Workbook by Jessica Long is a must-have book for any embroidery enthusiast. The instructions are easy to follow and the images provide lots of inspiration. It is perfect for those looking for a modern book of embroidery patterns at any level.

[Kristine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is perfect for anyone who enjoys Embroidery. I am one of those people. The things that make this book special are the Beautiful and Bold Color Pictures. Those are nice to see. Next, this is animal embroidery, but had many different patterns that are adorable such as The Hedgehog, Llamas, Deer, and the newest popular insect, The Honey Bee. The Honey Bee was my favorite, as they are reducing in population and it is good we are all concerned about them. Plus, my brother maintains Honey Bee Hives.

I am relatively new to embroidery, having mostly done cross stitch before, so the clear explanations on how to properly use Transfer Paper was quite helpful.

So, this is a Beautiful Book! Excellent to Treat Yourself or Give as a Gift to An Embroidery Friend for the Holidays! I would Recommend the Actual Book Over Digital. I find the Book better then Digital for Stitching Art.

Thanks you Landauer Publishing and NetGalley for Giving me this copy.

[Abigail Harris]

Wow, I had no idea how many kinds of embroidery floss there are, and still don't know but the fact that there are over 175 colors used for this book is crazy!

With clearly described instructions this book is great for animal lovers who want to learn to do embroidery!

red for review viz Netgalley

[Mariana · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I saw this book on Netgalley I just couldn’t resist. Jessica Long was one of the first artists I followed when I entered the embroidery world. Her designs are beautiful and her tutorials have helped me learn and practice stitches. In this book, we can see step-by-step instructions to create gorgeous embroidery pieces that are focused on animals. From simple designs to most complex ones, Jessica takes you in a lovely journey through Animal Embroidery. I started with something small and tried just the Hummingbird and Hibiscus pattern (although I have just finished the hummingbird) but I want to try them all!
Definitely a must-read if you love embroidery and want to create cute animal designs.

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are wanting to try out embroidering or need new ideas because you have done so much already, then this book is for you!!! The first part of the book shows you all the different types of stitches that you can work on. There is also a part when it tells you how to transfer patterns. I liked how it had real pictures and so you know what it will look like when you are finished with it. Towards the middle of the book, it begins to show you different patters on how to make animals. It also gives references on how to make some flowers as well. Each design shows you which stitch to use and also what colors are needed. Again, I would recommend this to anyone who is wanting to begin or enjoy embroidery even more.

[The Film Director's Wife · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is not only filled with adorable animals to embroider, but it also is a wonderful starting book for those who are just embarking on their embroidery journey.

The instructions were clear and easy to follow, in addition they contained illustrations of what each stitch is and what it's supposed to look like.

This book gives you the building blocks you need to start making some darling creations.

I believe this book would be wonderful for beginners and advanced embroiders alike.

***Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the digital ARC of this book. All views and opinions expressed in this review are my own.***

[Carmen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy from HarperCollins Publishers through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

As someone new to embroidery, I thought this book would be a great help on top of having cute patterns and was not disappointed. The opening has a lot of good information on the basics of getting started, including the different ways to put the outline of a pattern on fabric based on the type of fabric you are using. I also love the finishing techniques that are included, especially the double hoop. I was aware of most of these methods since I’m a cross stitcher, but I’ve never seen the double hoop finishing method and I can’t wait to try it.

There is a comprehensive stitch guide included, which is great for beginners like me. If any stitch does not make sense, it is easy to look how a how-to video and it suddenly makes sense. Plus, the patterns have tips geared toward each pattern, such as how to make transferring that particular pattern easier on yourself or choosing a fabric shade to make it pop. There are little ideas on how to take the patterns to the next level if you’re up to it and things like that. I think it’s a great touch.

I absolutely love this book and plan on purchasing it. I can’t wait to make my favorite pattern included, Honeybee Love, when I think I’m up to making something a little more complex. All in all, I think it’s a great book all around and can’t wait to make some of the patterns included.

[Penny · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are some really cute animal designs and the instructions are simple.

[Poptart19 (the name’s ren) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars

The patterns are gorgeous, well worth the time of an experienced embroiderer if you like animal & nature themes designs. The book has decently detailed info & tips for beginners (better than several embroidery books I’ve seen) with 4 levels of pattern difficulty, from simple outline designs to intermediate thread painting pieces.

[What I liked:]

•The projects are grouped by skill level, starting with basic patterns & graduating up to more complex thread painting patterns. I think it’s a helpful organization, & helps you choose a project you feel comfortable attempting at your skill level.

•The beginning of the book has detailed info on choosing & using frames, fabrics, floss, needles, & other tools. The info on pattern transfer methods is basic, but I appreciate the recommendations on which method to use based on the weight & color of fabric.

•The stitch guide has pretty detailed text instructions, and includes more advanced techniques like turkey work. The tips on thread painting (blending with long and short stitch) are detailed & give good advice.

•The patterns are lovely and adorable!! They are based on the author’s own illustrations. There are 30 different patterns, and all are detailed, unique, & thoughtful designs.

•The pattern guides are detailed, including stitch direction, color guides, the order for completing the work, & pictures of the works in progress showing various stages of the projects. This is a wonderful resource, especially for beginners.


[What I didn’t like as much:]

•Finishing techniques are limited to sewing/gluing the piece into a hoop (I know this is popular currently, but I don’t think it looks good, nor protects the work like a full frame does), using stretcher bars, or cutting out patches to appliqué on clothes/items. There isn’t much info on caring for embroidery pieces (washing, ironing, preventing fading, etc.).

•The stitch guide could use more pictures showing the different steps. However, stitch instructional videos are readily available on YouTube, so it’s not hard to find free visual resources these days.

[I received an ARC ebook copy from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. Thank you for the book!]

[Annie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally published on my blog: Nonstop Reader.

Animal Embroidery Workbook is a tutorial and style guide for surface embroidery by Jessica Long. Due out 1st Nov 2020 from Fox Chapel, it's 208 pages and will be available in paperback format.
I enjoyed this book a lot. The pictures are all very clear and colorful, the projects are well designed and appealing, and the text is upbeat and fun. The introduction includes a discussion of tools, supplies, and basic techniques. The bulk of the book is taken up by the 30 different animal projects. The projects themselves are varied and attractive. The display models in the book are shown mounted in hoops, but all of them could certainly be easily adapted to other finishes. All of the templates are included. Each tutorial contains an introduction, materials list (nothing too exotic or difficult to source), and step by step photo tutorials from start to finish. Tips and alternative finishes are included in the tutorials. The book also includes line drawn templates and an index but no index.

It should be noted that this book is about surface embroidery, not cross stitch. It's lovely to see tutorials and and upswing in interest for the other fibrearts; it seems like only cross-stitch had any following for a long long time and it's nice to see surface embroidery enjoying a renaissance. I really love the breezy and sweet style, and the quirky friendly animal projects.

Beautiful projects. Four stars.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

[Doreen Prentiss Gabriellini · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Animal Embroidery Workbook by Jessica Long is a beautiful book. I have followed Jessica on Instagram and was happy to see that she has a book. There were good instructions at the beginning, going through the process of transferring the pattern, how to use a hoop, what type of fabric is best and some not so well explained stitch basics and essential equipment. The patterns are adorable and presented in a way that are completely inspiring. Some of the animals are challenging, but many are doable for beginners.

I would consider myself an experienced stitcher. I would have liked more explanation on how to double hoop. It seemed like it was missing something. I was pleased at how generous Ms. Long shared her knowledge of her craft. The part I did not like, however, was that the author kept referring to her ‘youtube channel’ and website for more information. When take the time to purchase a book, particularly a crafting one, I do not want to have to put the book down and refer to other media. I do not like not having all of the information right there in front of me. Frankly while I love Ms. Longs embroidery this was a huge let down for me. Overall, the Animal Embroidery Workbook is full of cute and cuddly critters and is one that I would definitely take a look at.

I would like to thank Fox Chapel Publishing, Landauer Publishing, Ms. Long and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Flora · Rating 5 out of 5]

ANIMAL EMBROIDERY WORKBOOK

This is easily the most beautiful animal embroidery book I've ever seen. The designs and stitched items are gorgeous as are the photographs. So colourful and delightful - it makes my heart happy!

The author loves to paint and draw, and had aspired to become an natural history illustrator once. She is now a full time hand embroidery instructor and pattern designer. Her skills as Teacher, Artist, Designer and Stitcher have combined to produce this top-notch book. I feel that sometimes designers are not willing to share their beautiful designs all in one book – some projects tend to be not as nice - but it is not the case here for Jessica Long. All the designs here are literally as pretty as a picture!

The first part of the book is wisely reserved for the easier patterns. Beginners can start there. The latter parts get a bit more complicated, needing more experienced hands which anyone can attain with practice. All basic information and line patterns are supplied so anyone can start right away as soon as they have gathered all the supplies (which are minimal unless you want to make pretty necklaces, ornaments and so on.)

If I were to pick up embroidery again, this would definitely be the first one I would refer to.

Thank you Netgalley and Fox Chapel Publishing for the ARC. This is my honest opinion.

[Ashton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so cute. Such a great start for people who are beginning embroidery. Unlike many embroidery books I found the instructions much clearer, each with a little drawing of what each stitch is and what it's supposed to look like. I'm a very visual person And the book is very visual. I can't wait to get started on trying to do the fox! I mean literally it has all of the cute animals. 🤣

This book gives you everything you need to start making some real cute things. not only does it give you clear vision of stitches and a clear explanation of what you need to do, it also gives you a pattern for each and every animal so that you can easily transfer the pattern (They tell you how) on to your fabric and just get going. I love embroidery and I've always wanted to get involved with it more and this book is going to be the perfect Segway for me and I'm really excited! I think it's good for beginners like me and also still has a lot of value to those who have been doing it for a long time.

[Ana · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Animal Embroidery Workbook is a delightful collection of projects for both the experienced and budding embroiderer.
The author provides a clear overview of basic materials, tools, and methods to start you off, and then come the projects! They progress in difficulty starting from the fairly easy, to the more complex.
I have been doing cross stitch since I was a child, and I thought this was a great way to dip my toe in to other types of stitching. (Random side note: I was pleased that the author used DMC cottons and provided the exact shades, so I won't have any trouble finding the colours I need.)
While access to the patterns is obviously absent in the eARC, I found that the instructions were very clear and easy to follow, and I am looking forward to purchasing a copy so I can truly get started.
There are dozens of adorable patterns, but I am particularly looking forward to stitching the Wildflower Fawn for my mother, and the Cuddling Kittens for myself. But there are so many other to try, including hummingbirds, pandas, hedgehogs, foxes, koalas, otters and more.

[Evalina · Rating 5 out of 5]

There has been a renewed interest in embroidery for some time now. For those who would love to learn this skill or have an interest in creating embroidered pieces based on animal motifs, this is a great book for you.

The author has produced a step-by-step guide to creating some really nice pieces. The projects presented are for varied skill ranges and there are even pieces that employ the technique known as thread painting. The great thing is that the skills and techniques learned here are transferable to any other embroidery pieces the crafter will desire to make. This book also makes a great gift for a friend or relative that enjoys embroidery.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book provided by the publisher and Net Galley. However, the thoughts expressed are totally my own.

[Leyla Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me say first of all, this is an absolutely stunning book, just opening it, one wants to delve deeper and deeper and find how to achieved these wonderful works.
After starting off with a list of equipment and information, the books projects start off with beautiful item that are very simple and easy to achieve for the beginner. It then develops in stages, to harder and for more confident beginners, before branching out into blending colours for a more 3D effect, and then even more detail and more thread, to make the work truly amazing. All the instructions are step by step and easy to follow, and the designs are very cute, and I do agree the hedgehog is the cutest thing I have seen in embroidery, and the koalas of course.
Must have book

[Alyse · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Animal Embroidery Workbook is perfect for those that want to create cute embroidery of adorable animals. I have some background in cross-stitch and lately have been interested in making the jump to embroidery but have been a little intimidated. This book helped me feel a lot more confident in what feels like 'free-handing' compared to the regimented rows of cross-stitch. The basic of embroidery instructions were easy to follow and there were plenty of illustrations to further describe what she is teaching. I appreciate that the first chapter of actual patterns are very beginner friendly and simple but still cute. I've already ordered some transfer patterns from her website and will be using this book for reference when they arrive!

[JoyAnn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not likely to purchase this title, because I'm at a middle school, but I would definitely recommend this title to public librarians for purchasing. I am a longtime crafter that is thinking about stepping a toe in the waters of embroidery. I thought this book might be too advanced for me, but the author does a great job of starting with the basics and having a range of projects from beginner to advanced. The techniques for transferring, finishing, and more were very helpful. There are plentiful photographs which adds to the aesthetic appeal of the book but also adds to the understanding of the crafter. It is also a book that can be referred back to by crafter's again and again. Very well put together.

[Roz · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've been following Jessica Long on Instagram for a while, so seeing her publish a workbook of some of her most popular designs is exciting. Long's instructions, diagrams, and extra hints are generally written with the beginner in mind, but more experienced stitches will still appreciate the clarity of her designs and stitching instructions. The book progresses from simple designs to more complicated ones, culminating in a double-hooped wreath that's tricky to put together but creates an absolutely stunning final project. There's definitely something to appreciate for stitchers of every level.

[Gracie Lei · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book provides an easy to grasp intro to embroidery. I picked it up mistakenly thinking it was cross-stitch specific, this book does not cover cross-stitch (but it’s not meant to). The patterns are cute and can be easily modified with varying colors. The author has broken down each shape in the pattern to make it easy to branch out and create your own patterns with the foundational skills covered in this book. Definitely want to have this on my shelf for any intro embroidery work (especially for gifts for new borns!).

[Rebekah M · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a must have for crafters!
There are designs for beginners, and even more advanced embroiders. My Grandma taught me years ago, but I haven’t embroidered in so long, I was afraid I wouldn’t remember how.
This book gives clear, easy to follow steps, and detailed instructions and patterns.
I am going to the craft store this week for the necessary supplies and I hope to make some of these lovelies soon.
I was given the opportunity to review this book through NetGalley. All opinions expressed here are completely my own.

[Lindsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was rediculously cute. I started embroidering during quarantine in March and haven't been able to get enough. Between the explanations for how to transfer your own designs, the instructions about stitches, and the wealth of ideas for new projects I closed this book and felt like I had so many ideas for gifts and things I wanted to decorate with that I was full to bursty. Jessica Long's passion and creativity come through on this book clearly and her ease of explanation really made me excited to try things that might totally fail!

[what.ems.reading · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a fun book especially for those who are beginners! Filled with great tips, techniques, patterns & inspiration for projects this is a great book to have as a part of your collection. I really liked how they included step by step instructions on multiple stitches which for a beginner like myself is super helpful in getting better at this hobby. Also there are so many cute patterns that you'll want to try that this book offered. This would make a great gift especially with the holidays and winter coming soon.

[Sherry · Rating 5 out of 5]

While I had some trouble with the layout on both the NetGalley and Kindle apps (image display on the Kindle and aspect ratio on the other), between the two of them I was able to appreciate this book and conclude that I would love to have a hard copy of it for sure. I have been sewing for years upon years and doing cross-stitch for even longer, but embroidery is not something I have had the occasion to try yet, and the instructions here are thorough enough for a visual learner such as myself that I think I could really get into it with their help.

[Johanna Sawyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it! I don’t have a crafty bone in my body but this book sure makes me wish for it! So many cute and adorable designs you can draw onto any fabric and craft. I loved how step by step it was with colorful schemes, and the chapter showing you the different needlepoint stitches.
I’m in the process of moving and getting older but I swear to myself I’m going to slow down soon and give these a try. I’m a beginner but I loved the book!

I received a complimentary copy to read and voluntarily left a review.