Floral Embroidery

"Embroidery shop owner Sturmer combines her “passion for embroidery, flowers, and Shakespeare” in this beautiful and accessible beginner’s guide to embroidery. Each chapter begins with a quote from the Bard and contains vibrant photos. Beginners will appreciate the chapter titled “The Basics,” which offers a list of materials and instructions for the fundamental stitches used in the projects. Sturmer then presents 10 designs, progressing from “Simple Leaves and Stems,” which uses “the easiest of stitches,” to the intricate “Spooky Bouquet,” which is made up of multiple colors and stitches. The patterns are organized so as to build upon skills and gradually add new ones, culminating in a final chapter that teaches readers how to design their own floral patterns. This colorful, thoughtfully arranged guide is an excellent place for aspiring embroidery artists to start." ~Publisher's Weekly

Sturmer's experience in writing, embroidery, and theater directing makes her first-ever foray into crafts booking multidimensional. Quoting her Oma (German for grandmother), “Whatever we do, we must create,” is her theme for this book that showcases her talent, with ten floral projects, an intimate narrative, and snippets from the likes of William Shakespeare. Readers can expect all the usuals, like materials, descriptions, and a very elementary stitch guide (showcasing six
stitches in total, with the most complicated being the French knot and the rose wheel). Patterns are separated into three sections—the basics, detailed, and intricate—and accompanied by directions, "ingredients," and good-quality color photographs. “Extras” for each project are additional suggestions, like alternate uses (other than pillows) such as a gift announcement. Two roundup chapters highlight four techniques for finishing your hoop and templates. ~Booklist

“While the scope of this gorgeously photographed book is narrow, there is a wealth of easy-to-follow information for both novice and advanced embroiderers, who by carefully stitching along with Sturmer will soon find their homes blooming with colorful art”
~Library Journal