Erica Wilson's Needlework to Wear

Erica Wilson believes that needlework should be worn and proves it in this book, her first devoted strictly to the wearable. America's first lady of stitchery has designed an exciting array of wardrobe accessories and accents, with instructions for making each of them. Together, they incorporate virtually every form of needlework, from crochet to macrame, from gold work embroidery to counted cross-stitch. All are featured in full color. You will find it surprisingly easy to make her needlework jewelry. The shimmering gold leaves and polka-dot pansies, the woven ribbon brace¬lets and flowering branch necklace, can be created at a fraction of the cost of their boutique counterparts. And each offers the special satisfaction and quality of being handmade. In the clothing chapter, Erica shows you how to paint on silk to make your own designer original. Also, she teaches you five different ways to trans-form an ordinary white blouse with touches of lace and embroidery. Fill your closet with an Old English smock, a popcorn bobble sweater, a swirling wave vest. Whether you intend to create your own clothes or simply adapt your store-bought wardrobe to your own special look, you will find a wealth of ideas. Try a cross-stitch handbag with the look of lace or weave ribbons to make a colorful clutch. No need to send these bags out for expensive mount¬ing, either. Erica tells you everything you have to know to stitch and to finish each bag. In the belts and collars chapter, you will learn how designers make twisted cord belts and beaded lace collars that might break your budget if you had to buy them. Most of these finish¬ing touches for your wardrobe are made from the simplest of materials. All you need to know are the techniques, and they are given here, complete with diagrams. Finally, a selection of quick and easy projects shows you how to whip up a crocheted flower necklace, or special edgings and buttons for a favorite sweater, or wonderful barrettes and hair combs.