Art in Needlework A Book about Embroidery   By: Mary Buckle

Art in Needlework: A Book about Embroidery by Mary Buckle is a truly remarkable guide for anyone interested in the art of needlework. With a wealth of knowledge and expertise, Buckle provides a comprehensive overview of various embroidery techniques, as well as historical context and practical tips.

From the very beginning, it is evident that Buckle has a deep love and appreciation for embroidery. Her passion shines through in her writing, making it both informative and inspiring. She delves into the history of embroidery, tracing its origins and development across cultures and time periods. This historical background adds a fascinating dimension to the book, enabling readers to understand the significance of different styles and motifs.

The book is divided into distinct sections, each exploring a specific technique or genre of embroidery. Buckle covers a wide range of techniques, including basic stitches, threadwork, goldwork, silk embroidery, and needlepoint. The detailed instructions accompanying each technique are clear and easy to follow, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced embroiderers. Buckle also provides numerous illustrations and photographs, which further enhance the understanding of different stitches and their variations.

What sets Art in Needlework apart from other embroidery books is its emphasis on creativity and artistic expression. Buckle encourages readers to experiment with color, texture, and design, fostering a sense of individuality and innovation. Throughout the book, she showcases stunning examples of embroidery from various cultures, highlighting the diverse styles and approaches. This exposure to different artistic traditions encourages readers to explore and adapt techniques to suit their own personal style.

One of the book's standout features is the extensive collection of patterns and motifs provided. Buckle offers an array of beautiful designs that can be used as a starting point or inspiration for creating unique embroidered pieces. She carefully explains how to adapt and modify these patterns to suit different projects, ensuring that readers develop the necessary skills to design their own embroidery.

Perhaps one of the only minor drawbacks of the book is its reliance on traditional techniques and materials. While Buckle provides a brief discussion on modern trends in embroidery, some readers may have liked to see a more extensive exploration of contemporary approaches and unconventional materials. Nevertheless, this does not detract significantly from the overall value and usefulness of the book.

In conclusion, Art in Needlework: A Book about Embroidery by Mary Buckle is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the art of embroidery. Buckle's extensive knowledge, clear instructions, and emphasis on artistic expression make it both an educational guide and a source of inspiration. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced embroiderer looking to expand your repertoire, this book is an essential addition to your library.

First Page:

The custom has been, since woman learnt to kill time with the needle, to think of embroidery too much as an idle accomplishment. It is more than that. At the very least it is a handicraft: at the best it is an art. This contention may be to take it rather seriously; but if one esteemed it less it would hardly be worth writing about, and the book, when written, would not be worth the attention of students of embroidery, needleworkers, and designers of needlework to whom it is addressed... Continue reading book >>