Simply stitched Beautiful embroidery motifs and projects with wool and cotton

First published in Japan in 2014, -Higuchi's latest embroidery collection (her first published in English) combines the soft, fuzzy texture of wool thread with the sleek glossiness of familiar cotton embroidery floss. The motifs are small in scale and predominantly botanical-lots of leaves, flowers, and trees, some in a pseudo-Jacobean style-but there are a few animals, including miniature roosters, bees, and pigeons, as well as a wrapped-candy motif ideal for little girls' garments and accessories. Close-up photography highlights Higuchi's embroidery skills-her stitches are precise and even, making the contrast in texture and style between the cotton and wool threads even more striking. Most of the motifs are presented on their own and as part of a finished project, such as a small bag, pillow, or pouch. Traceable templates with call outs describing the stitch to be used are included, as are full directions for completing any of the suggested projects. A brief guide to the stitches used in the book is provided. VERDICT Stitchers interested in experimenting with different fibers, and fans of crewel embroidery (including Jacobean embroidery) will enjoy Higuchi's streamlined, classic style. © Copyright 2016. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.