Picture It in Machine Applique

Introducing the craft of machine applique, this book contains step-by-step instructions for colourful and attractive projects which are simple to make, with tips for beginners and trace-off patterns and motifs. Also included are ideas for designing and making your own applique.

Even stitchers with more enthusiasm than design sense or artistic talent will be able to achieve great results when they turn to this appliqu{‚}e primer. A knowledge of sewing-machine fundamentals is really the only prerequisite. Simmons, who uses only the simplest shapes in her projects, begins with suggestions on finding designs and reducing them to their basic form. She then describes the construction process, from choosing and cutting fabrics to fitting, stitching, and finishing. From tote bags to place mats, the 25 projects she includes are charmingly informal--many with motifs that have children in mind. The step-by-step instructions are illustrated with attractive, captioned drawings, and for each project, Simmons includes a helpful sample color palette, templates to copy and enlarge (several overlap on a page), and a full-color photograph of the finished item. A British import sure to lure American beginners. Stephanie Zvirin