A Cross Stitcher's Oriental Odyssey

by Joan Elliot

A breathtaking collection of 30 exotic cross stitch designs around an Oriental theme. American artist Joan Elliott has found inspiration in the colours and serenity of the Far East. Her wonderful designs have been skillfully adapted for cross stitching by American kit company Design Works Crafts. While some of the featured designs are already available as kits, many are exclusive to this book. Three of the most beautiful designs portray women in kimonos--Grace, Beauty and Wisdom--echoing the art of the Japanese print. While these may offer a challenge to the more experienced stitcher, there are plenty of smaller designs that offer inspiration to the beginner. The beautifully finished projects include a greetings card collection, pot lids, towel borders, scented sachet, a pillow, drawstring bag, and a silk-backed wall hanging.

Genres: Crafts, Nonfiction

112 pages, Paperback

First published December 15, 2001

Reviews

[Denise · Rating 3 out of 5]

While this is of course riddled with orientalism as the title promises, it has a few very charming patterns inside to make up for it, mainly (to my taste) a koi pond edging suitable for bookmarks, and some chickadees in cherry blossoms used on napkins. Also, while it is “oriental” which seems to imply it will mash up something from everyone over in East Asia, it’s actually just straight Japanese motifs. It could have been marketed as Japanese instead of Oriental probably more successful, lots of people love Japanese design specifically.

The random Chinese characters with ying yangs are particularly tacky, I guess they are the grandma version of getting a tribal tattoo.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adore this book. I bought a craft kit of one of the patterns ages ago. Then I borrowed the book from our local library years and years ago and was crushed to return it. I purchased a great used copy off Amazon and am happily stitching away on all kinds of new projects!

[J.M. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very beautiful and intricate designs, but to be honest the only ones I've ever done were the bookmarks (dragonflies and koi fish) that came out really vibrant and amazing. It's a keeper for those patterns alone!

[Carolyn]

Haven't seen it to rate it yet...

[Gwnhwyfer · Rating 4 out of 5]

What can I say? It's Joan Elliott - I want this book! ;)