The Needlecraft Book
This publisher does an excellent job of producing general, do-it-yourself crafts books that teach beginners outside of any classroom situation. As to be expected, this new compilation of five needlework specialties—knitting, crocheting, embroidery, needlepoint, and quilting/appliqué/patchwork—surveys tools and materials, basic skills, patterns (and how to read/use them), and specifics for each specialty. All projects are brilliantly photographed in color, with good explanations given in just a few choice words, especially when picturing yarns and equipment. Occasional tips guide novices. A separate chapter on finishing techniques ensures that hours of work won’t be wasted on a poorly put-together item; it also instructs in the care and feeding of newly made objects. One surprise is that a standard section on design principles (how to use color, that is) is sandwiched in the quilting chapter, instead of being showcased up front. How-to’s done well. --Barbara Jacobs