Hello all! I'm reviewing Stitch the Halls by Sophie Simpson from What Delilah Did today, and we're also doing a very special giveaway!
This is an absolutely delightful book that I wouldn't hesitate to add to your library - the main focus of this book's projects is counted cross stitch and embroidery, but many of the projects could easily translate into freeform embroidery, as well. The book begins with a nice summary of counted embroidery basics - going over fabrics, thread, and frames, and how to read counted charts. There's also a helpful stitch directory of 11 counted stitches you can use in addition to the basic cross stitch.
Let's open it up and have a look, shall we?
As you can see, the watercolor illustrations by Ana Victoria Calderon are absolutely gorgeous, and you'll find them throughout.
The book's 12 projects are divided into 3 broad categories: Stylish and Chic - for sophisticates; Merry and Bright - for modernists; and Classic and Cosy - for traditionalists.
I am loving the Stylish and Chic section of the book - with muted shades and classic black and whites for a nice variation from the ordinary Christmas red and green:
The Merry and Bright section is just as modern and refreshing, however. I love how crisp and geometric the designs are, and the bright pops of color in the projects within:
Last up is the Cosy and Traditional section, and although there is a traditional selection of red and white, the patterns don't lose their clean, modernist take - and how adorable are those mini Christmas sweaters?!
What I love about these patterns is that there is plenty of room for creativity - they are fresh and modern while being classic and elegant - in short, not unlike What Delilah Did's signature style.
I chose one of the small Advent Tree designs to stitch up on for this review - it was a quick, delightful stitch - easy to follow, geometric, and striking. I used the Mountain Merino Wool from our previous giveaway, and the homespun quality of the wool added a great deal to this, I think:
So, on to our giveaway! I call this a very special giveaway because in addition to the review copy which we were kindly sent - we have been offered 3 copies of the book to give away to our readers! 3 copies! You have 3 times the chances to win this gorgeous book, just in time to do a bit of Holiday stitching.
To win a copy of Stitch the Halls!: 12 Decorations to Make for Christmas
, simply leave a comment on this post by Sunday, October 26, 9 PM US CST, and tell us, which section of the book appeals to you most, and what do you think you might make?