From School Library Journal
Grade 4-8–With an attractively designed cover featuring photos of sample projects, this book is sure to encourage interest in needlework. An introduction explains the basics of this craft, describing fabric, thread, needles, embroidery hoops, and more. Readers will learn about the intricacies of embroidery floss, transferring patterns, and dressmaker's tracing paper. A wide variety of ornamental stitches is explained and illustrated. The nine activities begin with materials lists and have easy-to-follow step-by-step directions and clear illustrations. Youngsters will have fun crafting the simple to advanced projects, including a flower pincushion, a CD pouch, a drawstring bag, embroidered clothing, and a bracelet. A full-color photo of each finished product is also included.–Augusta R. Malvagno, Queens Borough Public Library, NY Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Embroidery is like drawing with a needle and thread. Once you've learned a few simple stitches you can create amazing designs on your clothes and make some really cool one-of-a-kind gifts. It's easy -- just thread a needle and sew up some fun. Embroidery will have you in stitches!

FROM THE CRITICS

Children's Literature - Susan Hepler, Ph.D.

Directions for general embroidery precede directions for some ten projects including a felt pincushion, stitched greeting card, star ornament, CD pouch, drawstring bag, fleece blanket edging, magnet project, and bracelet. While the introductory matter is denser than the project directions, you do not have to read it completely to get started and readers can take on the nine embroidery stitch directions as needed. "Getting Ready to Embroider" includes directions for transferring a pattern, how to use a hoop, and what floss is and how to use it. While directions assume some common craft tools such as a glue gun, sewing needles, or fabric and cord, stitches can be practiced on any sort of cloth project and mounted on greeting cards, the simplest of the projects. Ending pages include graphed motifs and borders and a cross-stitch alphabet and number chart. This would be a useful book for teen centers, clubs, handwork groups, or scouts projects as the work can be started with adult supervision and then carried on independently. Full-color illustrations make the projects look inviting, fun to do, and cool—an extra plus for the intended audience. 2004, Kids Can Press, Ages 8 to 12.

School Library Journal