1. Home
  2. Hobbies & Games
  3. Needlepoint

Beth Russell's William Morris Needlepoint

About.com Rating five out of Five

By Tracy Lambert, About.com

The Bottom Line

Beth Russell's updated book, William Morris Needlepoint, is a 135 page book brimming with lovely designs, and beautiful photos of completed projects, with sections covering: beginning your work, step-by-step stitch tutorials, and how to complete your stitch work into a finished project.
Pros
  • Step by Step Instruction
  • 21 Beautifully Charted Designs
  • Clear Pictures and Illustrations Make Instructions Easy to Follow
  • Informative Background Information Provided for Each Design
  • Helpful Finishing Instructions Given for Those Who Want to Complete a Project
Cons
  • Some may not prefer charted patterns

Description

  • Biographical information given on William Morris and his influence on the work of author and designer, Beth Russell
  • Delightful anecdotes trace the origin and inspiration of each pattern
  • Designs charted in full color and have easy to follow instructions
  • Detailed lists for each project including suggestions for canvas, threads with yardage requirements, needle size, etc.
  • Projects are stitched using tent stitches, making them easy- even as a beginner project
  • Step-by-step tutorials (with photos) of stitch formation
  • Appleton to DMC Stranded Cotton Chart included for easy conversion
  • Basic finishing instructions provided for those who wish to complete a project themselves
  • Kits available for those who would like exact colors and prefer to stitch on printed canvas (see link below).
  • Information on kits or book can be obtained by visiting Beth Russell's site, Designer's Forum.

Guide Review - Beth Russell's William Morris Needlepoint

Beth Russell's William Morris Needlepoint is beautifully illustrated and contains 21 designs, each with interesting background information, charted pattern, thread charts, and finishing suggestions. Her notes on the work of William Morris are both captivating and inspiring- especially so, seeing a translation of his work in to needlepoint.

Some projects in William Morris Needlepoint include:

  • Peacock
  • African Marigold
  • Honeysuckle Border
  • Orange Border
  • Fruit
  • Bees
  • Ananthus and Flower
  • Lion
  • Kelmscott Frame
  • Alphabet Chart for monogramming the center section of bordered designs

Explore Needlepoint

More from About.com

  1. Home
  2. Hobbies & Games
  3. Needlepoint
  4. Media
  5. Beth Russell's William Morris Needlepoint (Revised Edition)

©2008 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.