Crewel Twists: Fresh Ideas for Jacobean Embroidery

Embroidering in the Jacobean fashion is what I enjoy most. Prior to purchasing this book, I have attended classes and watched a DVD of the technique and completed my first project. I bought this book as I thought it would provide me with easy visual access to the techniques. I feel this is not a starter book for the complete novice, as there is a need to go back and forth between stitch instruction and the photographic image. While it is easy for the experienced stitcher to know what they are looking at stitch wise on the design, I feel the novice may have a little more difficulity. This book tells one what to do, but does not show you how to do it. Having said that, the graphics are excellent making it easy to see the stitch direction while sewing.The colour photos provide ample opportunity to go with the suggested colour schemes or to change them to ones own colour blend.This is a lovely book for the embroiderer to use as inspiration in their own work.

I love Helen's vibrant colour useage and this book really helps to show how she acheives the patterns. The stitches are shown in easy to understand detail. If you like Jacobean design and want a book to inspire you to be creative then this is it.

Very clear instructions. I have worked 'Just Jacobean' and it has turned out much better than I expected. This was my first attempt at crewel work, although I have done other forms of embroidery.

It was the black and white cover that first draw my attention - it was so different from all the colours. Book was cheap enough so I thought I would order it and see!!The book took my breath away - the samples shown throughout the book are quite beautiful and I must admit I cannot wait to give a couple a go. Instructions are clear with stitch diagrams at the beginning of the book. The author writes as if she is talking to you - even advice on glasses etc.A lovely book worth every penny.

Love this book! Beautifully written and set out. I have done a lot of embroidery although I am new to crewel work, but found the patterns easy to follow. Love the stitch guides.