Stumpwork, Goldwork and Surface Embroidery Beetle Collection

by Jane Nicholas

For the ancient Egyptians the beetle symbolized life, rebirth, and immortality, and for centuries, artisans have used the scarab motif to adorn everything from textiles and jewelry to the tombs of kings. This definitive collection of beetle-themed designs offers instructions for using the 17th century art of raised stumpwork embroidery, the metallic threads of goldwork, and glittering beadwork to create lifelike designs. Hundreds of color and black-and-white illustrations will teach embroiderers all about the tools and equipment needed, special beading techniques, creating dimensional designs with appliqué, mounting their images, and more.

Genres: Art

432 pages, Paperback

First published May 28, 2004

Reviews

[Andrea McDowell · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic book for the advanced beetle-loving embroiderer. This may be a small audience, but it's a wonderful book--from the research on the inspiration insects, through to the instructions and projects using stumpwork, goldwork, crewel, beading, and applique techniques.

I'll update this review when I've tackled my first beetle project--soon!

Edited to add: I've finished my last stumpwork beetle last night--the ladybug--and I can now say that the instructions are clear, the measurements and diagrams are accurate and make sense, and the project worked.

[Kajin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely gorgeous stumpwork of insects.

[Natalie Olsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

working on some of these awesome beetle projects

[Renata Bursten · Rating 5 out of 5]

The perfect book for the insect loving needle-worker. There may not be a lot of us but we have a fabulous resource now!

[julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow what an incredibly rich and detailed book. There is a great amount of info on beetles themselves, history of them throughout the world and embroidery details. Absolutely wonderful.

[Tracy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful