Early Style Hardanger

Delve into elegant Frisian whitework with historical whitework with 11 varied projects and expert instruction for left and right handed stitchers alike. From Friesland in the Netherlands, this is a style of counted embroidery dating from the 1600s, traditionally used on men’s shirt collars, on household linen, and on samplers. The style is known as Frisian whitework, but there can be touches of color, and some samplers are worked fully in color. Alphabets, figurative motifs and geometric shapes are common, and they are interpreted in a wide variety of stitches, such as satin stitch, eyelets, whipped back stitch, and chain stitch; some also with cutwork and drawn thread work. Explore this beautiful style of embroidery using whitework specialist, Yvette Stanton’s clear instructions. The book features: A detailed introduction to Frisian whitework with historical and cultural information, including many photos of historical examples of Frisian whitework from the collection of the Fries Museum, helps to place the embroidery within its cultural context. Materials and equipment 11 varied projects with a range of contemporary applications, including two samplers, soft furnishings for the home, table linen, and small articles suitable to give as gifts. The left- and right-handed step-by-step stitch and technique instructions are easy to follow, making it easy to learn. Yvette Stanton’s expert instructions will help you on your way to making beautiful Frisian whitework embroidery.

Features needlework from Guimaraes in northern Portugal. This title helps you to learn all you need to know to create your own masterpieces and heirlooms with the step-by-step instructions. It includes a range of projects, large and small, for beginners through to advanced stitchers.

Sardinian Knotted Embroidery by Yvette Stanton is a delightfully thorough voyage into the world of a little-known Italian needlework technique native to a small area on the island of Sardinia. This terrific manual takes you through the history and particulars and guides you every step of the way through the projects which range from beginner to expert skill levels (you'll want to stitch them all!) giving tips and tricks along the way, letting you know what to look out for and helping you through common mistakes. Yvette includes finishing instructions for all her lovely projects both small and large including advice on materials, care, stretching and washing. Stitch diagrams are clear and concise and she has gone the extra mile and included separate step-by-step instructions for left-handed stitchers! Grab your passport and explore this embroidery without fear as Yvette is with you every step of the way. She has anticipated your doubts and worries and addresses them all to give you the confidence to complete every exquisite project in this book making it an extremely enjoyable embroidery trip.

'Elegant Hardanger Embroidery' takes you step-by-step from novice to advanced stitcher, with helpful diagrams and hints and tips at every stage.

Winner of the Philip K Dick Award “Filled with wondrous language, marvelous events.” —Science Fiction Chronicle In Ireland, three generations of young women fight to control the powers coursing through their blood: the power to bring the mystical Otherworld into our world, and change it. Emily, Jessica and Enye must each face their dark side of human mythoconsciousness–and their own personal histories. But the forces of faerie are ever treacherous... Filled with vivid, passionate characters you will never forget, King of Morning, Queen of Day is a spellbinding fantasy of the real Ireland. “McDonald’s power as a storyteller lies in his stylistic versatility and intensity of language as well as in his capacity to create vivid and memorable characters. Highly recommended.” —Library Journal “A brilliant book.” —Charles de Lint

A fascinating journey through Scotland's famous distilleries with legendary author Iain Banks No true Scotsman can resist the allure of the nation's whisky distilleries. In an absorbing voyage as interesting to non-drinkers as to true whisky connoisseurs, sci-fi and literary author Iain Banks explores the rich heritage of Scottish whisky, from the largest and most famous distilleries to the smallest, most obscure operations. Whisky is more than a drink: it's a culture, a binder that joins together people, places and products far across Scotland's rugged terrain. Switching from cars to ferries to bicycles, Banks crisscrosses his homeland, weaving an engrossing narrative from the strange people, fascinating traditions, and downright bizarre places he encounters on his journey down Scotland's great golden road.

This is a comprehensive introduction to Hardanger embroidery. A brief history is followed by a chapter on materials and techniques with an illustrated glossary of over 30 stitches. The 20 projects are accompanied by colour photographs, charts, step-by-step instructions and making-up information.