Postcard Reviews - Jan 2020

A showcase for textile artist Alison Holt's exquisite machine embroideries, this book will teach you to 'paint' your surroundings using just two simple stitches.

All the techniques are broken down into clear, step-by-step instructions, with numerous helpful photographs and a great range of inspirational pieces. Alison 'paints' her threads on to hand-coloured backgrounds, blending her stitches and achieving stunning results.
 
With two simple stitches, a straight stitch and a zig zag, the author Alison Holt demonstrates her talents beautifully. This book is just amazing and very pleasing to the eye. As a creative person, but not a good one I might add, I envy her talent. The projects in this book can not only be sewn, but also painted, so depending on your own preference, you can have a go at creating and even designing something with a stunning effect. You can also add organza, beads and ribbon to give definition to your chosen piece.
The landscapes and seascapes are full of life, the colours vibrant and the subject is beautiful.
The 10 projects are accompanied with instructions, techniques and ideas how to create the perfect picture.
Of course for most of us this will take some practice, but I love this book, and even if I can achieve just one beautiful flower or a frothy wave then I would be happy.
4*/5