Decorative Victorian Needlework: Over 25 Charted Designs

by Elizabeth Bradley

Cushions that feature subtly shaded, mossy rosebud wreaths. A dark-eyed spaniel so adorable that you'll wish it were real. Rich autumn leaves, a cord and tassel design for borders and patchwork all these projects display the rich colors and the enchanting details of the finest Victorian embroidery. Whether your pleasure is animals, florals, abstract geometrics, or repeating patterns, they're here--along with a selection of borders and needlework rugs. Stitch shy rabbits nestling in a leafy woodland hollow. Delight a horse-crazy little girl with the pretty white palomino pony delicately lifting its hoof. A posy of violets looks wonderful on a pillow set against crisp linen sheets and antique fabrics, while the giant wreath makes a splendid project for an ambitious flower-loving needleperson. Abstract backgrounds include interlocking diamonds and stars, pinstripes, and overlapping ribbons. From pin cushions and pictures to chair covers and carpets, every pattern is breathtaking! 168 pages (all in color), 10 1/4 x 11 1/4.

Genres: Crafts, Nonfiction

168 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1990

Reviews

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I bought this book years ago and loved it. Today, looking through it, i was stunned that while there are many fine pieces in here, the charts are poorly printed unlike either Barbara Hammett's or Beth Russell's on the same topic.. l The introduction is good but one buys these books for the charts; the writing is filler. There are no ratings on any of the pieces.

If you are beginner, try Tabby Cat pg 38 and several of the background charts from 78 on though Interlocking Hexagons is tricky, but still would work for that "Confident Beginner," as would Paisley on 105, d Foxes heads 110 and Rose and Primula border pg 116 — the center is on page 132 and best saved for last, is rather complicated with lots of half stitches.

Best pieces,
1. Rabbits page 26.
2/ Rosebud Wreath pg 49.
—yellow variation is hard to read. Ditto Rose Swag.
3.Basket of Flowers pg 59.
4. The Giant Wreath is the pièce de résistance of the book....still.
5. Of the diaper patterns, the Repeating leaves is good and the chart clear.

Many others are nice but require extensive magnification. I would recommend photocopying at large magnification in bits and working from that. ...still for eye candy, Bradley cannot be beat.

[Stuart · Rating 3 out of 5]

Beautiful book of tapestries with advice as well as 25 patterns.