Suzie Perry

Every cross stitch library needs a good solid reference book, one that you can turn to again and again. Despite all the specialty guides on the market, nothing beats a basic, straightforward manual, whether you're a novice or a professional. For years The Cross Stitcher's Bible by Jane Greenoff has been my most valuable resource. Newcomers to cross stitch will love this book as it transforms them into skilled stitchers throughout the course of its pages.

Originally published in 2000 and updated in 2003, The Cross Stitcher's Bible has taught thousands of people how to master counted cross stitch. Well-illustrated, well-written, and easy-to-follow, it contains a wealth of information, how-to's and valuable advice. This is a wonderful book, illustrated with hundreds of beautiful step-by-step photographs and diagrams. If you don't already cross stitch, Jane Greenoff will make you wish you did.

A best-selling author and well-known designer, Greenoff is often referred to as the "Queen of Cross Stitch". Years of experience have provided her with new and innovative ideas and solutions to problems faced at any level. Wonderfully down-to-earth, she loves to share her expertise with others. Indeed, The Cross Stitcher's Bible is the next best thing to having this doyenne of the craft sitting alongside you.

Counted cross stitch is easy and enjoyable once you learn a few basics, but charts and terminology can be intimidating for a beginner. The Cross Stitcher's Bible provides all the information you need to create beautiful works of art that will be admired by family and friends for generations. From choosing a design and proper equipment, to reading a chart, working the stitches and finishing techniques, this book will guide you through every stage of a project in clear, easy-to-follow explanations and instructions.

The Cross Stitcher's Bible is divided into color-coded sections for quick reference. The first chapter, Getting Started, is packed with practical information such as; working with and organizing threads, types of fabrics used in cross stitch, calculating design size, how and where to start a project, and tips to make perfect stitches. Greenoff includes dozens of detail-rich photos and charts to help readers visualize and better understand the stitching process.

Did you know that you can add cross stitch to your clothes? The second chapter, Creative Options illustrates the versatility of this time-honored craft. You'll learn how to create beautiful designs on a variety of materials including perforated paper, silk, and waste canvas. You'll also be inspired to try three dimensional cross stitch and make all sorts of unique projects using miniature stitching techniques. Greenoff shares her tips for experimenting with a variety of specialty threads, demonstrating how they add spectacular effects to any design.

Now that you've learned the basics of counted cross stitch, Exploring Choices takes you to the next level of creativity. This section shows you how to embellish finished projects with exquisite charms, buttons and beads, and, how to combine cross stitch with other embroidery techniques such as blackwork and Hardanger. Beginners will also learn to create a simple sampler, and design their own projects by adapting ready-made kits.

Jane Greenoff is a self-taught stitcher who understands and addresses the needs of newbies. The Cross Stitcher's Bible is a wonderful introduction to the art of cross stitch. A beginner-friendly guide, it contains over 50 pages of original charts, an extensive stitch library, and a wealth of ideas, advice and information. If you can only have one book in your cross stitch library, this one is indispensible.