Hey Stitching Friends . . . Exciting news! It is finally time to tell you about my new Indie book. It's called, EMBROIDERY CRAFT:: Stitching Through the Seasons, and it has just been published. Signed copies will be available (from me) after September 1st and will be up on Amazon toward the end of the month. I'm super excited!
Here's just a little preview of what's inside:
Gathered together into this book are some of my favorite stitched pieces along with many of the projects you asked for. I have to say, I really appreciated everybody's input and took it all to heart as I selected which things to include and I think there's something for everybody at every skill set. Inside, it all appears within the framework of my home, our backyard gardens, with glimpses of family, including the infamous 'Lily Margaret' (that femme fatal feline of mine), all of which has been designed, stitched, and photographed by 'Yours Truly' (I'm blushing a bit), making this book highly personal and maybe just a little quirky--like this blog.
What's more is, it's sprinkled with sugar, and love, and happiness. And yes, a few polka-dots might be scattered here and there too. But I bet that you already expected as much, right?
Here's a peek at the contents page for Summer and Autumn:
See? I told you. Polka-dots . . .
But besides the polka-dots and the embroidery love, I've shared some thoughts on sewing spaces and fabric storage, provided a basic list for tools and supplies, some sound advice about materials and basic sewing techniques, along with an embroidery stitch guide. At the heart of the book there are 30 small stitching projects organized to compliment the changing seasons. Most of the projects can be made to fit any season or theme just by changing the embroidery designs though, so you do have many options and room to apply your own creativity no matter what the season.
And speaking of embroidery designs . . . there are over 100! These can be traced directly from the book. However, I will also be offering them as iron-on transfers for a limited time on my PatternBee website.
UPDATE: 2019 - My embroidery patterns are now available at MeadowSweet WorkShop.
Let's see, what else can I show you? This section covers simple applique techniques with an example to follow that will help hone your skills and make you smile at the same time.
Here we have examples of embroidered embellishments for handmade infant clothing. Vintage embroidery with a fresh approach. These are just darling and very simple to make. Patterns for baby kimono jackets are not included. I used an old McCall pattern, but these styles are still popular and available through most pattern companies.
These pages were so much fun to do! There are a total of 12 "theme samplers" (as I call them), that can be stitched as shown (above), or the designs can be used individually to embellish other items.
So that's it, in a bloggy nutshell. My hope is that my little book will appeal to everyone who likes to stitch--newbies and old hands alike. And not only that, but that it bestow *JOY* as you do so!
To kick things off, I think a Give-Away is definitely in order. Here's the game plan . . . I'll reserve the first copy (signed by me), PLUS an iron-on transfer collection set for one Lucky Person anywhere on the planet. I'll choose and announce a winner sometime after September 1st from among the commenter's on this blog post.
Ohhh I just know I'm gonna love this book!
Posted by: Samantha Martz | August 19, 2010 at 10:45 PM
Your book looks WONDERFUL! I'm looking forward to it!
☺
Posted by: Martha | August 20, 2010 at 02:28 AM
Congratulations! I loved your first book, and this one looks like a lovely additon to the Turkey Feathers library!
Posted by: Lisa | August 20, 2010 at 03:17 AM
I am VERY excited to get my hands on this book! Love, love, love your first one.
Posted by: judy | August 20, 2010 at 04:43 AM
Congrats, Vicki! I am so excited--I can't wait to get your new book--it looks so beautiful!! What a terrific giveaway--you're sweet!
Posted by: Sharon M. | August 20, 2010 at 06:20 AM
I enjoyed your first book and am looking forward to your new one. The projects look great. Congratulations!
Posted by: Dcuddy | August 20, 2010 at 07:03 AM
Swoon!
School has started, and I am back to looking for handwork to do when I am waiting in the carpool lane... embroidery? Why, yes, thank you.
Congratulations on being published, a second time! I enjoy your first book, and this looks even more inspiring!
Love those vintage patterns.
Posted by: Natalie VV | August 20, 2010 at 07:10 AM
Can't wait to see the book and start stitching from it!
Posted by: Cindy Marquis | August 20, 2010 at 07:32 AM
OH MY GOODNESS!!! This is the book for me! I have been retired for 2 years now and have been embroidering with your PatternBee.com transfers ever since. My grandmother would be so proud that I am once again following her example and stitching like crazy! CONGRATULATIONS on your new book!
Posted by: Donna Mac | August 20, 2010 at 07:37 AM
Congrats on your new book, it looks like it chocked full of inspiration. I just love blog, thank you for the inspiration.
Posted by: Anita | August 20, 2010 at 07:59 AM
Love it! Got to have it!
Posted by: Heather F | August 20, 2010 at 08:38 AM
Congratulations! Can't wait to get my hands on your new book!!!
Posted by: Janelle | August 20, 2010 at 09:14 AM
Dear Vicki: Boy, what a lot of work and it's beautiful! Put me down for a copy when you get your supply as I want an autographed copy of my very own.
Posted by: Pattie in San Francisco | August 20, 2010 at 09:40 AM
You have no idea how much I want this book!!!! So glad to see some of the goodies inside:0) I hope I win, I hope I win because, well because I can't afford to purchase it really:( I love , love your blog and I thank you for being such an awesome lady and sharing with your readers your sentiments on, well, everything! Congrats on your book, I am sure you are loving the whole idea of having written and published it in all its glory.
XXSara
Posted by: Sara | August 20, 2010 at 09:42 AM
I can not wait to get my hands on this book. It just might be my early birthday gift to myself!
Posted by: Alexis Brooks | August 20, 2010 at 10:43 AM
I've been looking forward to this book so much Vicki. It's almost as exciting for me as for you, to know that it is finished. I'm so pleased for you and all that you've accomplished. Almost 5 years now, and you still inspire me, in so many ways, and I know this book will inspire all of us who love our handwork. Congratulations!
xo
Lena
Posted by: Lena | August 20, 2010 at 11:39 AM
The pictures look so vintage. I can't wait to get my copy. Looks like you did another great job. Will love putting this book beside the previous one on my bookshelf. Thanks, Terry
Posted by: Terry | August 20, 2010 at 11:43 AM
Oh what fun! Stitching is my new favorite and I would love to win this!! This looks absolutely beautiful!
Posted by: jerusalem | August 20, 2010 at 12:22 PM
you are such an inspiration!! love the new book, I hope I win!! <3
Posted by: Bean | August 20, 2010 at 01:21 PM
Oh me, oh my! I would be delighted beyond belief to get my hands on this book! You know I love your work, right?
Congratulations on this latest treasure! And, happy day to you.
Posted by: DEB | August 20, 2010 at 01:42 PM
Thank you for your generous give-away.....how I would love to win!
Posted by: debbie h | August 20, 2010 at 02:53 PM
Congratulations on your book! I'm excited for you and all us "stitchers". And just in time to fill all those cold winter months with glorious stitching.
Posted by: Vickie Dumbeck | August 20, 2010 at 02:53 PM
Congrats to you Vicki - I have your first book and want this to add to my collection of great books!!
Posted by: Anne Marie | August 20, 2010 at 03:12 PM
I love your work! Can't wait to see the new book!
Posted by: Jackie | August 20, 2010 at 04:11 PM
Congratulation!!!!! I'm just so excited!!!!
Posted by: Kavita | August 20, 2010 at 04:17 PM
Oh my goodness gracious! I would LOVE to win a copy of your new book. And, if by some sad chance I do NOT win, I'll definitely buy it.
Congratulations!
Posted by: elaynne | August 20, 2010 at 06:37 PM
Oh congrats! What a labor of love and it looks so darling. Thanks for giving a glimpse.
Posted by: Vee | August 20, 2010 at 06:51 PM
If it's a project from you it's worth it's weight in gold, I love evry pattern I have ever ordered:)
Add my name to the hat, you are too kind.
Posted by: Bridgette | August 20, 2010 at 09:53 PM
Beautiful!! I am excited to get a copy, maybe I'll just win one!!
Posted by: Sherri Parsley | August 21, 2010 at 01:27 AM
The book looks lovely! Congratulations and much success with the sales!
Posted by: Pauline | August 21, 2010 at 07:58 AM
lovely, lovely patterns and book. If I don't win...I;ll buy it on amazon.
Posted by: knitter | August 21, 2010 at 09:53 AM
So excited for the new book! Congrats! Looks like there are some fun projects...can't wait to dig in!
Posted by: jenna | August 21, 2010 at 11:27 AM
My Grandma taught me to embroider before I started school. My stitches were quite large and uneven then, but I've continued to improve over the 50-some years since! I'd found the vintage transfers she taught me with on your website and bought them immediately. I really like vintage embroidery and am looking forward to buying the new book.
Posted by: Kathy B | August 21, 2010 at 01:33 PM
What a charming little book! Congratulations!
Posted by: Julie | August 21, 2010 at 03:44 PM
So exciting. That little girl in the sunhat makes me want to by it all by herself!
Posted by: greetingarts | August 21, 2010 at 04:47 PM
What an adorable book this is. I love the first one. Hope I am a winner! :o))
Posted by: Angela Prince-Bex | August 21, 2010 at 04:57 PM
Oh I'm so excited you've got a new book! I love the embroideries that I see above. Can't wait to get a book. :o)
Nancy
Posted by: NancyC20 | August 22, 2010 at 12:22 AM
The new book looks wonderful! I'd love a chance to win a signed copy!
Posted by: Georgeanne | August 22, 2010 at 06:27 AM
Wow Vicki...the book looks wonderful! I am always so intrigued and inspired by your stitch work. Congrats on this labor of love.
Posted by: Beth | August 22, 2010 at 08:23 AM
I am so excited about your new book! I've really been looking forward to it and can't wait to get my hands on it.
Posted by: Erin | August 22, 2010 at 11:30 AM
I can't wait!!! I'm so excited for your book! I love you blog and web site, so much inspiration. Thanks
Jessica
Posted by: Jessica | August 22, 2010 at 03:33 PM
Congratulations! It looks wonderful and like a lot of fun!
Posted by: Kristal | August 22, 2010 at 05:23 PM
Your book looks wonderful. I especially like those embroidered baby kimono jackets. I recently found a little baby jacket I had started when I was pregnant with my first baby (she's 21 years now). It's embroidered with rabbits, flowers and birds. I'm really enjoying finishing it - her baby is due this October. I do love to embroider!
Posted by: Carol | August 22, 2010 at 09:02 PM
The book looks beautiful! I can hardly wait to see it in its complete form. What a lovely labor of love!
Posted by: Margaret Frisch | August 23, 2010 at 06:28 AM
So adorable! I love embroidery and this book I need. Big hug, Deborah
P.S. Thank you for the chance to win!
Posted by: deborah | August 23, 2010 at 08:30 AM
The books looks simply marvelous - and too marvelous for words. :)
Posted by: Cynthia Holzhauer | August 23, 2010 at 08:45 AM
Hadn't been to your site in a while, and it brought tears to my eyes to see such a neat, new book out on embroidery. I will get it! thanks for such treats!
Posted by: Bethany | August 23, 2010 at 09:55 AM
I've been so looking forward to your book coming out! I've been a long time fan of your pattern shop and can't wait to pour over everything you've included in your book. Thank God September 1st is coming up fast!
Posted by: Catherine | August 23, 2010 at 01:20 PM
What a delightful collection of patterns, projects adn inspiration! Well done and what fun!
Posted by: Julie | August 23, 2010 at 01:58 PM
What an accomplishment! I'm very much looking forward to your new book!
Posted by: Mary | August 23, 2010 at 03:46 PM
Hi, Vicki,
I'm very excited about your new book and I can't wait to receive my copy! I teach embroidery to seniors at the local Senior Center. It's very gratifying to see them so enthusiastic while persuing a pastime that many of them learned in their youth! Last week I taught a lady of 85 years who had never embroidered at all, but she was so happy to learn! Thank you for the inspiration that you provide to all ages. Best Regards, Debbie
Posted by: Debra | August 23, 2010 at 05:03 PM
I can't wait to read your new book!
Posted by: Carol | August 23, 2010 at 06:53 PM
This is great Vicki..I love your book! Surely would love to have the second book as well~
Posted by: Chase | August 23, 2010 at 09:15 PM
Congrats on the new book, and I can't wait to see the patterns in the "thrift shop"!
Posted by: Wendy | August 23, 2010 at 09:54 PM
Congrats! I would love to pick up embroidery again, as I now have a mum-in-law who enjoys stitching too!
Posted by: Anna Marie | August 24, 2010 at 02:34 AM
It looks wonderful! I always enjoy your blog and website.
Posted by: Jacklyn M. | August 24, 2010 at 07:57 AM
Very cool! Congratulations! I would la la LOVE to be the lucky one to win, absolutely LOVE!
Posted by: Heather S | August 24, 2010 at 09:26 AM
So very cute!! I love the little girl with the big hat and the chicken. Best wishes!
Posted by: Tina Mack | August 24, 2010 at 01:38 PM
Congratulations on your book! Have been following your blog for quite some time and love your work. Can't wait to whip up some of the projects myself.
Posted by: Danielle | August 24, 2010 at 11:06 PM
I can't wait to see your new book! I just posted a photo of the quilt made using the transfers I got from you-- you can see it here: http://www.janice-campbell.com/2010/08/25/the-blessing-of-creative-handwork
I'm already looking forward to the next project. There's hardly any other craft that combines portability, creativity, and color in such a delightful way. Thanks for making all the great old patterns available.
Posted by: Janice Campbell | August 25, 2010 at 10:15 AM
I love your art! I can't wait for your book!!!
Posted by: SarahB | August 25, 2010 at 12:07 PM
Congratulations on the new book!! and thanks for the wonderful giveaway!!!
Deepa
Posted by: Deepa | August 26, 2010 at 08:42 AM
Hi Vicki,
Congratulations on your new book. It is beautiful and looks very interesting. I love your blog and your website "Pattern Bee". These are my favorite internet sites.
Posted by: Cgirl | August 26, 2010 at 10:29 AM
Congratulations on this new book! It looks wonderful and so does the transfer collection. Your book layout looks delightful and I know this book will also be a joy to look at. BLessings to you! :)
Posted by: Else | August 26, 2010 at 11:42 AM
Vicki,
The new book looks beautiful! Please enter my name in the giveaway.
Blessings to you from Kansas! Gail
Posted by: Gail | August 26, 2010 at 12:38 PM
Your new book looks great. Congratulations.I've enjoyed embroidery for a few years now & a new book will be great.
[email protected]
Posted by: Lyn Smith | August 26, 2010 at 04:28 PM
I received my iron-on copies yesterday. They are darling! I am excited to see the book and plan projects. Ann
Posted by: Ann | August 27, 2010 at 07:56 AM
I'm so excited to hold your new book in my own hands!!
Posted by: Linda Joan | August 27, 2010 at 08:15 AM
oh my goodness, it looks wonderful!!
Posted by: Jenn | August 27, 2010 at 12:04 PM
This book just looks lovely!
Posted by: Rosemary | August 27, 2010 at 02:51 PM
Can you please tell me (and any others out there that don't know) what does the word "Indie" mean. I see that word being used all-over-the-place lately. Specifically, how does the word pertain to the description of your new book? Was I living under a rock when this newly used word was introduced on the scene?
H-E-L-P, PLEASE!! Enlighten me!! Thanks, Much!
PS~~ I'm lovin' the look of your book~~as in, gonna have to get it!!
Posted by: Deb Myers | August 27, 2010 at 02:57 PM
I just got some transfers for my granddaughter's blanket. Am excited to get going. I love to embrodery and I am glad to find a place where I can find a good collection of transfers.
Posted by: Susie | August 28, 2010 at 11:08 AM
I love the colors, the polka dots....the whimsyness of it all... it makes me think of candy, ice-cream... and fun!!!
Posted by: Ilona | August 28, 2010 at 12:54 PM
oh please pick me pick me! i just started getting into embroidery and this book would be perfect!
Posted by: Lydia | August 29, 2010 at 03:57 PM
Vicki congratulations on your new book! The cover is so adorable and the projects look amazing! Thank you for inspiring us once again. :)
Posted by: Christy | August 29, 2010 at 04:56 PM
The book is beautiful!! I can't wait to order one!
Posted by: Angie | August 29, 2010 at 08:56 PM
I'm sure this is just as awesome as your last one! Congrats on another book!
Posted by: Judy | August 30, 2010 at 05:16 AM
What a wonderful looking book! Such talent for creating such beautiful things.
Posted by: Pattie | August 30, 2010 at 02:31 PM
How exciting!!! I can't wait to see it all. Pick me!
Posted by: Linda Jo | August 30, 2010 at 04:10 PM
Congratulations on the new book! It looks wonderful! And an opportunity to win it, lucky us! If I don't win, I will certainly be running over to Amazon to purchase!
Posted by: Cheryl | August 30, 2010 at 07:29 PM
the book looks amazingly lovely!
and here's a big congrats on your new book! :)
Posted by: Lyn | August 30, 2010 at 09:17 PM
YOUR BOOK WILL BE A WINNER.HOPE I WIN..VAL
Posted by: val | August 31, 2010 at 09:13 PM
After many years of counted cross-stitch I have finally discovered the joy of hand embroidery. I am excited to read your book and learn more about it!
Posted by: Heather K. | August 31, 2010 at 11:08 PM
Waiting for a signed copy! I featured you this morning as my Wednesday's Woman. Hope you have time to take a peek. Have a lovely day and Happy September!
Posted by: Susan | September 01, 2010 at 05:13 AM
Discovered your blog through Not Quite June Cleaver's blog ... looking forward to getting to know you!
Posted by: Jennifer | September 01, 2010 at 06:09 AM