Reviews
NetGalley Review: 4 stars Last updated on 11 Apr 2021 Cross-Stitch is something I liked doing as a kid, but I never really graduated to being able to do designs that weren't already printed out for me. Since having so much more free time over the past year or so, it's something I've considered coming back to, so I figured I'd check out this book to see if it gave me any inspiration. It starts out by showing you how to do some of the stitches that will be featured in the book and has 30 patterns starting with beginner. (I'm listening...) I have to say that these designs are all awesome and very positive, but I still feel like they may be a bit over my head. It may be time for me to smart small and circle back to some of these later (I really love all the ones about dreaming big!) I also liked seeing the different alphabets that are available! Different fonts so to speak. Again, not sure I am ready for this but anyone more advanced than me would surely enjoy the instructions included in this book! I received a free e-copy of this book in order to write this review. I was not otherwise compensated. -- Concert Katie, reviewer at ConcertKatie.com NetGalley Review: 4 stars Last updated on 12 Apr 2021 This is a nice little cross-stitch book with different projects that can be completed quickly, especially if you are short on time. Several of the patterns of the book are inspiring enough to get me out of my crafting rut. [smile emoji] Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review. -- LiAna Gray, consumer reviewer NetGalley Review: 5 stars Last updated on 07 Apr 2021 This was a sweet book that includes a bunch of fun patterns. Not all the patterns were to my style, but there were so many that I loved! This has something for everyone. -- Jennifer Darnell, Librarian an EVPL NetGalley Review: 5 stars Last updated on 13 Apr 2021 The designs are great for beginners or even experienced stitchers looking for simple projects they can work up quickly. The charts are presented in a clear, easy-to-read style as the instructions and thread charts. It would be a good idea to include the selections for alternative thread brands but this isn't really an issue as the stitchers perfectly free to adjust the colors of threads used in the designs. This is a great addition to a stitcher's library and even makes a great gift! I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by the publisher and Net Galley but the thoughts expressed are my own. -- Evalina Irish-Spencer, consumer reviewer NetGalley Review: 3 stars Updated 02 Apr 2021 This is a sweet little book of cross stitch patterns, mostly phrases with cute illustrations to accompany them. For instance: Friends are Earth angels, Celebrate everything, bloom, live with passion, Do it with heart, Make your dreams real, Write from the heart, and Together is the best place to be. There are lots of mentions of cake, home, angels, etc. Each design has a detailed pattern with colors needed and a color photo of the finished project. These include wall hangings, tiny pillows, etc. but the instructions are more for the cross-stitch than the projects you can make with them. The color scheme is very pastel, feminine and old fashioned. Many of them reminded me of the 1980's. I realize that's probably the aesthetic of most folks who are doing cross-stitch these days, but the themes, colors and designs are not terribly modern. Some are more so than others. I think most cross-stitchers will greatly enjoy it though. I read a temporary digital ARC of this book for review. -Alicia Bayer, Media at a Magical Life NetGalley Review: 4 stars Updated 03 Apr 2021 Inspired Cross Stitch is a charming book of softly colored designs that use Backstitch & whole Cross Stitch almost entirely. This makes it great for beginners and those wanting to translate the designs to other charted techniques. The charts are clear, in color, and easy to read (they can also be enlarged). The color keys are straightforward and list each kind of stitch separately, a nice touch. The instructions for each project are straight and to the point. Often they also include finishing instructions. The book ends with a set of four alphabets for creating your own pieces and a visual index of all the projects. The projects are all non-religious inspirational sayings. Although angels and mandalas appear in some designs, the intention of the book is to inspire without being tied to any particular tradition. While those seeking projects with a Christian focus will be disappointed by the lack of these, they will still find plenty to like. -Janet Perry, Consumer Reviewer NetGalley Review: 4 stars Updated 31 Mar 2021 Sweet and colorful designs that are perfect for Spring. Cross-Stitching has become a hobby over the last few years and when I saw this book, I needed to have a look! These cross-stitch patterns are very pretty. They use more light colored thread and look almost delicate and would be for a baby girls room or just for Spring decorations. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review. --Jess Von, Consumer Reviewer NetGalley Review: 4 stars Updated 31 Mar 2021 What a lovely cross stitch book. It is packed with beautiful patterns that I can't wait to stitch and her writing just makes it that much sweeter. --Emilee Meeks, Consumer Reviewer NetGalley Review: 5 stars Last Updated 01 Apr 2021 Inspired Cross Stitch by Gail Bussi is my new favorite cross-stitch book. The book, which is divided into three sections, Inspire, Create, and Connect, contains 30 beautiful cross-stitch charts and I am sure you will find several that you just have to stitch. A beginner will have no problem stitching the charts, but they definitely include enough detail to make even the most seasoned stitcher happy. In addition to the beautiful photographs and charts, there are wonderful, inspirational stories throughout the book. Each chart comes with a complete materials list and a brief story about the design. The instructions and tips that are included are helpful even to someone who has been cross stitching for almost 50 years as I have. I especially appreciated her instructions on how to finish the stitched pieces and found them very simple and easy to follow. I recommend this book to all stitchers. Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for providing me with a digital copy of this book prior to publication in exchange for my review. This review is being posted immediately to my GoodReads account and will be posted on Amazon and Barnes and Noble upon the book's publication --Donna Boyd, Educator at Reading Enrichment/Literacy Group NetGalley Review: 5 stars Updated 31 Mar 2021 Lovely cross-stitch book! The patterns are cute and include a broad range of uplifting messages while also including color and chart, if you want to replicate the pattern as they have used and photographed. There are pictures for each pattern, as well as the stich chart. Most cross-stitch books that have I happened upon, really don't have too many patterns as they are not that large. However, I was pleasantly surprised that this book has tons of patterns! --Kate Z, Consumer Reviewer NetGalley Review: 5 stars Updated 31 Mar 2021 When life for the entire galaxy and planet has turned on its end, you are continuing to #maskup and #lockdown to be in #COVID19 #socialisolation as the #secondwave ( #thirdwave ?)is upon us, superspeed readers like me can read 300+ pages/hour, so yes, I have read the book ... and many more today. I requested and received a temporary digital Advance Reader Copy of this book from #NetGalley, the publisher and the author in exchange for an honest review. From the publisher, as I do not repeat the contents or story of books in reviews, I let them do it as they do it better than I do [smiling cat emoji]. The 30 cross-stitch designs in Gail Bussi's signature hand-lettering style will encourage mindful, relaxing stitching and are easy enough for beginners. Create personalized designs with alphabets provided. Each project includes a chart, finished photo, materials list, and full instructions. Gail Bussi has had her cross-stitch designs published in all of the major needlework magazines in the UK, US, and France, and is the author of several needlework books. Her images and artwork have also been made into greeting cards and other items. After suffering personal trauma, she stopped creating for a time but has recently found healing through the power of stitching meaningful words in her designs and finding peace in the stitching itself. With this book, she seeks to share this power with others. This is a great little cross-stitch book that will get you to make amazing creations in no time at all. The ideas are cute and the instructions will make sense to those newbie stitchers and old-hats in no time flat. And as it is a craft that does not cost a lot, I will recommend this book to friends, family and patrons alike as the words are meaningful to so many kinds of people. (I will likely paint them instead of stitching them, but that is me!) As always, I try to find a reason to not rate with stars as I simply adore emojis (outside of their incessant use by [bless]-ed Social Influencer Millennials/#BachelorNation survivors/Tik-Tok and YouTube Millionaires/snowflakes / literally-like-overusers etc. on Instagram and Twitter... Get a real job, people!) so let's give it [5 thread spool emojis] --Janet Pole Cousineau, Librarian at A.E.M.S. Library/ Community Kitchen
Crafters hoping to use cross-stitching as a balm for the stresses of every day life should look no further. -- ""Publishers Weekly"" Gail Bussi has been designing and stitching cross-stitch pieces since she was a young girl. Through the years, her signature chalk-art, hand-lettered style has earned her an endeared place in the hearts and hands of her fans and customers from around the world. In her newest publication, Inspired Cross-Stitch, Gail shares 30 inspirational, heartwarming designs meant to encourage and uplift spirits and promote emotional healing through the use of needle and thread. As you stitch your way through this collection of positive thoughts and sentiments, it is Gail's wish that your heart and soul find comfort, peace and calm from the daily rigors of life. Each design features a brief story about the inspiration for the piece, a color chart, complete floss key and fabric suggestion, along with beautiful photographs of lovely stitched models. You'll also enjoy easy-to-follow finishing instructions for creative wall hangings, cozy pillows, handy gift bags, treasured ornaments and more. --Tanya Fox ""Just Cross Stitch"" NetGalley Review: 3 stars Updated 02 Apr 2021 ""This is a sweet little book of cross stitch patterns, mostly phrases with cute illustrations to accompany them. For instance: ""Friends are Earth angels,"" ""Celebrate everything,"" ""bloom,"" ""live with passion,"" ""Do it with heart,"" ""Make your dreams real,"" ""Write from the heart,"" and ""Together is the best place to be."" There are lots of mentions of cake, home, angels, etc. Each design has a detailed pattern with colors needed and a color photo of the finished project. These include wall hangings, tiny pillows, etc. but the instructions are more for the cross-stitch than the projects you can make with them. The color scheme is very pastel, feminine and old fashioned. Many of them reminded me of the 1980's. I realize that's probably the aesthetic of most folks who are doing cross-stitch these days, but the themes, colors and designs are not terribly modern. Some are more so than others. I think most cross-stitchers will greatly enjoy it though. ""I read a temporary digital ARC of this book for review."" Alicia Bayer, Media at a Magical Life NetGalley Review: 4 stars Last updated on 24 Jun 2021 ""'Inspired Cross-Stitch' by Gail Bussi is filled with lovely, inspiring counted cross-stitch patterns that will be a joy to create. All of the patterns use a similar color palette of soft, soothing colors that complement each other and will look perfect with cottage or shabby chic d�cor. This book includes 30 full-color patterns plus four different alphabet fonts for stitchers who want to create their own words or quotes. There is a short tutorial on stitches at the beginning of this book if one needs it, but these patterns are not overly complex and totally appropriate for a novice stitcher. The motifs are on the small side, which makes for a project that can be accomplished in just a few sittings. Many thanks to NetGalley, Rowman & Littlefield, and Stackpole Books for providing me an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review."" --Suzi Makowski, Consumer Reviewer NetGalley Review: 4 stars Updated 03 Apr 2021 ""Inspired Cross Stitch is a charming book of softly colored designs that use Backstitch & whole Cross Stitch almost entirely. This makes it great for beginners and those wanting to translate the designs to other charted techniques. ""The charts are clear, in color, and easy to read (they can also be enlarged). The color keys are straightforward and list each kind of stitch separately, a nice touch. The instructions for each project are straight and to the point. Often they also include finishing instructions. The book ends with a set of four alphabets for creating your own pieces and a visual index of all the projects. ""The projects are all non-religious inspirational sayings. Although angels and mandalas appear in some designs, the intention of the book is to inspire without being tied to any particular tradition. While those seeking projects with a Christian focus will be disappointed by the lack of these, they will still find plenty to like."" Janet Perry, Consumer Reviewer NetGalley Review: 4 stars Updated 31 Mar 2021 ""What a lovely cross stitch book. It is packed with beautiful patterns that I can't wait to stitch and her writing just makes it that much sweeter."" Emilee Meeks, Consumer Reviewer NetGalley Review: 5 stars Last updated on 16 Jul 2021 ""Cross-stitch is something that my maternal grandmother taught me back when I was much younger and I have never forgotten it. There have been periods where I would do cross-stitch all the time and periods where the materials were simply waiting for me to pick them up again. I have used cross-stitch to create beautiful hand-made gifts for my friends and that would not have been possible without my grandmother. This book reminds me of the ones that my grandmother used to teach me about cross-stitch and the patterns are simple, fun and can be finished in a variety of different ways. The author themselves mentioned that the colors in the patterns can be swapped and changed depending on personal preference. Another thing that I liked about the book is that the author goes through a few different ways that each project can be finished and displayed and the book actually goes through each option and talks though how to do it. The book also talks about the different ways that each project can be finished depending on what the sewer wants. I absolutely recommend this book both for beginners and for people familiar with cross-stitch. The patterns are simple, easily customizable and can be adjusted to the sewers comfort level."" --Mariah Kallevig, reviewer at New Days Ahead NetGalley Review: 5 stars Last Updated 01 Apr 2021 ""Inspired Cross Stitch by Gail Bussi is my new favorite cross-stitch book. The book, which is divided into three sections, Inspire, Create, and Connect, contains 30 beautiful cross-stitch charts and I am sure you will find several that you just have to stitch. A beginner will have no problem stitching the charts, but they definitely include enough detail to make even the most seasoned stitcher happy. In addition to the beautiful photographs and charts, there are wonderful, inspirational stories throughout the book. Each chart comes with a complete materials list and a brief story about the design. The instructions and tips that are included are helpful even to someone who has been cross stitching for almost 50 years as I have. I especially appreciated her instructions on how to finish the stitched pieces and found them very simple and easy to follow. I recommend this book to all stitchers. Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for providing me with a digital copy of this book prior to publication in exchange for my review. This review is being posted immediately to my GoodReads account and will be posted on Amazon and Barnes and Noble upon the book's publication"" Donna Boyd, Educator at Reading Enrichment/Literacy Group NetGalley Review: 5 stars Updated 31 Mar 2021 ""When life for the entire galaxy and planet has turned on its end, you are continuing to #maskup and #lockdown to be in #COVID19 #socialisolation as the #secondwave ( #thirdwave ?)is upon us, superspeed readers like me can read 300+ pages/hour, so yes, I have read the book ... and many more today. ""I requested and received a temporary digital Advance Reader Copy of this book from #NetGalley, the publisher and the author in exchange for an honest review. ""From the publisher, as I do not repeat the contents or story of books in reviews, I let them do it as they do it better than I do [smiling cat emoji]. ""The 30 cross-stitch designs in Gail Bussi's signature hand-lettering style will encourage mindful, relaxing stitching and are easy enough for beginners. Create personalized designs with alphabets provided. Each project includes a chart, finished photo, materials list, and full instructions. ""Gail Bussi has had her cross-stitch designs published in all of the major needlework magazines in the UK, US, and France, and is the author of several needlework books. Her images and artwork have also been made into greeting cards and other items. After suffering personal trauma, she stopped creating for a time but has recently found healing through the power of stitching meaningful words in her designs and finding peace in the stitching itself. With this book, she seeks to share this power with others. ""This is a great little cross-stitch book that will get you to make amazing creations in no time at all. The ideas are cute and the instructions will make sense to those newbie stitchers and old-hats in no time flat. And as it is a craft that does not cost a lot, I will recommend this book to friends, family and patrons alike as the words are meaningful to so many kinds of people. (I will likely paint them instead of stitching them, but that is me!) ""As always, I try to find a reason to not rate with stars as I simply adore emojis (outside of their incessant use by ""[bless]-ed Social Influencer Millennials/#BachelorNation survivors/Tik-Tok and YouTube Millionaires/snowflakes / literally-like-overusers etc. "" on Instagram and Twitter... Get a real job, people!) so let's give it [5 thread spool emojis]"" Janet Pole Cousineau, Librarian at A.E.M.S. Library/ Community Kitchen
NetGalley Review: 4 stars Last updated on 12 Apr 2021 This is a nice little cross-stitch book with different projects that can be completed quickly, especially if you are short on time. Several of the patterns of the book are inspiring enough to get me out of my crafting rut. [smile emoji] Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review. -- LiAna Gray, consumer reviewer NetGalley Review: 4 stars Last updated on 25 May 2021 Inspired Cross-Stitch is a tutorial guide with designs plus alphabets for DIY motivational sayings designed by Gail Bussi. Due out 1st Sept. 2021 from Rowman & Littlefield on their Stackpole Books imprint, it's 166 pages and will be available in paperback format. This collection is filled with small pastel designs and inspirational sayings which can be done in a short amount of time or combined into larger pieces. The design aesthetic is sweetly whimsical and a bit traditional. They would make good embellishments for gifts or clothing (using waste canvas to stitch the design). The individual element would also make nice small projects on sachets, towel edgings, or other small pieces. Each project includes suggested fabric, design stitch counts, and approximate size on the recommended fabrics. The author has included suggested finishing directions. The charts are in color with symbols, along with DMC thread and color name equivalents. Most designs have only a handful of colors, so substituting different (darker or brighter) colors shouldn't pose any difficulty. The book includes a thumbnail gallery index as well as a very (very) short general how-to tutorial. Four stars. It would make a good choice for library acquisition or home use. Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes. NetGalley Review: 5 stars Last updated on 16 May 2021 Cathartic, Deeply Inspiring, and Engaging Mindfulness at its' core, Gail Bussi's Inspired Cross-Stitch reminds you to See the Possibilities, while gently allowing you to find healing, by restoring your grace and building your strength through your creative side, as well enjoying the serenity, peaceful introspection and renewal of well-being. Thank you to Net Galley for an ARC, in exchange for an honest review. #NetGalley. #InspiredCross-Stitch #EngagingMindfulnessAtIts'Core #InspireCreateConnect --DaenerysSnow1, Consumer Reviewer NetGalley Review: 4 stars Last updated on 11 Apr 2021 Cross-Stitch is something I liked doing as a kid, but I never really graduated to being able to do designs that weren't already printed out for me. Since having so much more free time over the past year or so, it's something I've considered coming back to, so I figured I'd check out this book to see if it gave me any inspiration. It starts out by showing you how to do some of the stitches that will be featured in the book and has 30 patterns starting with beginner. (I'm listening...) I have to say that these designs are all awesome and very positive, but I still feel like they may be a bit over my head. It may be time for me to smart small and circle back to some of these later (I really love all the ones about dreaming big!) I also liked seeing the different alphabets that are available! Different fonts so to speak. Again, not sure I am ready for this but anyone more advanced than me would surely enjoy the instructions included in this book! I received a free e-copy of this book in order to write this review. I was not otherwise compensated. -- Concert Katie, reviewer at ConcertKatie.com NetGalley Review: 5 stars Last updated on 07 Apr 2021 This was a sweet book that includes a bunch of fun patterns. Not all the patterns were to my style, but there were so many that I loved! This has something for everyone. -- Jennifer Darnell, Librarian an EVPL NetGalley Review: 5 stars Last updated on 13 Apr 2021 The designs are great for beginners or even experienced stitchers looking for simple projects they can work up quickly. The charts are presented in a clear, easy-to-read style as the instructions and thread charts. It would be a good idea to include the selections for alternative thread brands but this isn't really an issue as the stitchers perfectly free to adjust the colors of threads used in the designs. This is a great addition to a stitcher's library and even makes a great gift! I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by the publisher and Net Galley but the thoughts expressed are my own. -- Evalina Irish-Spencer, consumer reviewer NetGalley Review: 3 stars Updated 02 Apr 2021 This is a sweet little book of cross stitch patterns, mostly phrases with cute illustrations to accompany them. For instance: Friends are Earth angels, Celebrate everything, bloom, live with passion, Do it with heart, Make your dreams real, Write from the heart, and Together is the best place to be. There are lots of mentions of cake, home, angels, etc. Each design has a detailed pattern with colors needed and a color photo of the finished project. These include wall hangings, tiny pillows, etc. but the instructions are more for the cross-stitch than the projects you can make with them. The color scheme is very pastel, feminine and old fashioned. Many of them reminded me of the 1980's. I realize that's probably the aesthetic of most folks who are doing cross-stitch these days, but the themes, colors and designs are not terribly modern. Some are more so than others. I think most cross-stitchers will greatly enjoy it though. I read a temporary digital ARC of this book for review. -Alicia Bayer, Media at a Magical Life NetGalley Review: 4 stars Updated 03 Apr 2021 Inspired Cross Stitch is a charming book of softly colored designs that use Backstitch & whole Cross Stitch almost entirely. This makes it great for beginners and those wanting to translate the designs to other charted techniques. The charts are clear, in color, and easy to read (they can also be enlarged). The color keys are straightforward and list each kind of stitch separately, a nice touch. The instructions for each project are straight and to the point. Often they also include finishing instructions. The book ends with a set of four alphabets for creating your own pieces and a visual index of all the projects. The projects are all non-religious inspirational sayings. Although angels and mandalas appear in some designs, the intention of the book is to inspire without being tied to any particular tradition. While those seeking projects with a Christian focus will be disappointed by the lack of these, they will still find plenty to like. -Janet Perry, Consumer Reviewer NetGalley Review: 4 stars Updated 31 Mar 2021 Sweet and colorful designs that are perfect for Spring. Cross-Stitching has become a hobby over the last few years and when I saw this book, I needed to have a look! These cross-stitch patterns are very pretty. They use more light colored thread and look almost delicate and would be for a baby girls room or just for Spring decorations. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review. --Jess Von, Consumer Reviewer NetGalley Review: 4 stars Updated 31 Mar 2021 What a lovely cross stitch book. It is packed with beautiful patterns that I can't wait to stitch and her writing just makes it that much sweeter. --Emilee Meeks, Consumer Reviewer NetGalley Review: 5 stars Last Updated 01 Apr 2021 Inspired Cross Stitch by Gail Bussi is my new favorite cross-stitch book. The book, which is divided into three sections, Inspire, Create, and Connect, contains 30 beautiful cross-stitch charts and I am sure you will find several that you just have to stitch. A beginner will have no problem stitching the charts, but they definitely include enough detail to make even the most seasoned stitcher happy. In addition to the beautiful photographs and charts, there are wonderful, inspirational stories throughout the book. Each chart comes with a complete materials list and a brief story about the design. The instructions and tips that are included are helpful even to someone who has been cross stitching for almost 50 years as I have. I especially appreciated her instructions on how to finish the stitched pieces and found them very simple and easy to follow. I recommend this book to all stitchers. Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for providing me with a digital copy of this book prior to publication in exchange for my review. This review is being posted immediately to my GoodReads account and will be posted on Amazon and Barnes and Noble upon the book's publication --Donna Boyd, Educator at Reading Enrichment/Literacy Group NetGalley Review: 5 stars Updated 31 Mar 2021 Lovely cross-stitch book! The patterns are cute and include a broad range of uplifting messages while also including color and chart, if you want to replicate the pattern as they have used and photographed. There are pictures for each pattern, as well as the stich chart. Most cross-stitch books that have I happened upon, really don't have too many patterns as they are not that large. However, I was pleasantly surprised that this book has tons of patterns! --Kate Z, Consumer Reviewer NetGalley Review: 5 stars Updated 31 Mar 2021 When life for the entire galaxy and planet has turned on its end, you are continuing to #maskup and #lockdown to be in #COVID19 #socialisolation as the #secondwave ( #thirdwave ?)is upon us, superspeed readers like me can read 300+ pages/hour, so yes, I have read the book ... and many more today. I requested and received a temporary digital Advance Reader Copy of this book from #NetGalley, the publisher and the author in exchange for an honest review. From the publisher, as I do not repeat the contents or story of books in reviews, I let them do it as they do it better than I do [smiling cat emoji]. The 30 cross-stitch designs in Gail Bussi's signature hand-lettering style will encourage mindful, relaxing stitching and are easy enough for beginners. Create personalized designs with alphabets provided. Each project includes a chart, finished photo, materials list, and full instructions. Gail Bussi has had her cross-stitch designs published in all of the major needlework magazines in the UK, US, and France, and is the author of several needlework books. Her images and artwork have also been made into greeting cards and other items. After suffering personal trauma, she stopped creating for a time but has recently found healing through the power of stitching meaningful words in her designs and finding peace in the stitching itself. With this book, she seeks to share this power with others. This is a great little cross-stitch book that will get you to make amazing creations in no time at all. The ideas are cute and the instructions will make sense to those newbie stitchers and old-hats in no time flat. And as it is a craft that does not cost a lot, I will recommend this book to friends, family and patrons alike as the words are meaningful to so many kinds of people. (I will likely paint them instead of stitching them, but that is me!) As always, I try to find a reason to not rate with stars as I simply adore emojis (outside of their incessant use by [bless]-ed Social Influencer Millennials/#BachelorNation survivors/Tik-Tok and YouTube Millionaires/snowflakes / literally-like-overusers etc. on Instagram and Twitter... Get a real job, people!) so let's give it [5 thread spool emojis] --Janet Pole Cousineau, Librarian at A.E.M.S. Library/ Community Kitchen
NetGalley Review: 4 stars Last updated on 12 Apr 2021 This is a nice little cross-stitch book with different projects that can be completed quickly, especially if you are short on time. Several of the patterns of the book are inspiring enough to get me out of my crafting rut. [smile emoji] Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review. -- LiAna Gray, consumer reviewer NetGalley Review: 4 stars Last updated on 11 Apr 2021 Cross-Stitch is something I liked doing as a kid, but I never really graduated to being able to do designs that weren't already printed out for me. Since having so much more free time over the past year or so, it's something I've considered coming back to, so I figured I'd check out this book to see if it gave me any inspiration. It starts out by showing you how to do some of the stitches that will be featured in the book and has 30 patterns starting with beginner. (I'm listening...) I have to say that these designs are all awesome and very positive, but I still feel like they may be a bit over my head. It may be time for me to smart small and circle back to some of these later (I really love all the ones about dreaming big!) I also liked seeing the different alphabets that are available! Different fonts so to speak. Again, not sure I am ready for this but anyone more advanced than me would surely enjoy the instructions included in this book! I received a free e-copy of this book in order to write this review. I was not otherwise compensated. -- Concert Katie, reviewer at ConcertKatie.com NetGalley Review: 5 stars Last updated on 07 Apr 2021 This was a sweet book that includes a bunch of fun patterns. Not all the patterns were to my style, but there were so many that I loved! This has something for everyone. -- Jennifer Darnell, Librarian an EVPL NetGalley Review: 5 stars Last updated on 13 Apr 2021 The designs are great for beginners or even experienced stitchers looking for simple projects they can work up quickly. The charts are presented in a clear, easy-to-read style as the instructions and thread charts. It would be a good idea to include the selections for alternative thread brands but this isn't really an issue as the stitchers perfectly free to adjust the colors of threads used in the designs. This is a great addition to a stitcher's library and even makes a great gift! I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by the publisher and Net Galley but the thoughts expressed are my own. -- Evalina Irish-Spencer, consumer reviewer NetGalley Review: 3 stars Updated 02 Apr 2021 This is a sweet little book of cross stitch patterns, mostly phrases with cute illustrations to accompany them. For instance: Friends are Earth angels, Celebrate everything, bloom, live with passion, Do it with heart, Make your dreams real, Write from the heart, and Together is the best place to be. There are lots of mentions of cake, home, angels, etc. Each design has a detailed pattern with colors needed and a color photo of the finished project. These include wall hangings, tiny pillows, etc. but the instructions are more for the cross-stitch than the projects you can make with them. The color scheme is very pastel, feminine and old fashioned. Many of them reminded me of the 1980's. I realize that's probably the aesthetic of most folks who are doing cross-stitch these days, but the themes, colors and designs are not terribly modern. Some are more so than others. I think most cross-stitchers will greatly enjoy it though. I read a temporary digital ARC of this book for review. -Alicia Bayer, Media at a Magical Life NetGalley Review: 4 stars Updated 03 Apr 2021 Inspired Cross Stitch is a charming book of softly colored designs that use Backstitch & whole Cross Stitch almost entirely. This makes it great for beginners and those wanting to translate the designs to other charted techniques. The charts are clear, in color, and easy to read (they can also be enlarged). The color keys are straightforward and list each kind of stitch separately, a nice touch. The instructions for each project are straight and to the point. Often they also include finishing instructions. The book ends with a set of four alphabets for creating your own pieces and a visual index of all the projects. The projects are all non-religious inspirational sayings. Although angels and mandalas appear in some designs, the intention of the book is to inspire without being tied to any particular tradition. While those seeking projects with a Christian focus will be disappointed by the lack of these, they will still find plenty to like. -Janet Perry, Consumer Reviewer NetGalley Review: 4 stars Updated 31 Mar 2021 Sweet and colorful designs that are perfect for Spring. Cross-Stitching has become a hobby over the last few years and when I saw this book, I needed to have a look! These cross-stitch patterns are very pretty. They use more light colored thread and look almost delicate and would be for a baby girls room or just for Spring decorations. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review. --Jess Von, Consumer Reviewer NetGalley Review: 4 stars Updated 31 Mar 2021 What a lovely cross stitch book. It is packed with beautiful patterns that I can't wait to stitch and her writing just makes it that much sweeter. --Emilee Meeks, Consumer Reviewer NetGalley Review: 5 stars Last Updated 01 Apr 2021 Inspired Cross Stitch by Gail Bussi is my new favorite cross-stitch book. The book, which is divided into three sections, Inspire, Create, and Connect, contains 30 beautiful cross-stitch charts and I am sure you will find several that you just have to stitch. A beginner will have no problem stitching the charts, but they definitely include enough detail to make even the most seasoned stitcher happy. In addition to the beautiful photographs and charts, there are wonderful, inspirational stories throughout the book. Each chart comes with a complete materials list and a brief story about the design. The instructions and tips that are included are helpful even to someone who has been cross stitching for almost 50 years as I have. I especially appreciated her instructions on how to finish the stitched pieces and found them very simple and easy to follow. I recommend this book to all stitchers. Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for providing me with a digital copy of this book prior to publication in exchange for my review. This review is being posted immediately to my GoodReads account and will be posted on Amazon and Barnes and Noble upon the book's publication --Donna Boyd, Educator at Reading Enrichment/Literacy Group NetGalley Review: 5 stars Updated 31 Mar 2021 Lovely cross-stitch book! The patterns are cute and include a broad range of uplifting messages while also including color and chart, if you want to replicate the pattern as they have used and photographed. There are pictures for each pattern, as well as the stich chart. Most cross-stitch books that have I happened upon, really don't have too many patterns as they are not that large. However, I was pleasantly surprised that this book has tons of patterns! --Kate Z, Consumer Reviewer NetGalley Review: 5 stars Updated 31 Mar 2021 When life for the entire galaxy and planet has turned on its end, you are continuing to #maskup and #lockdown to be in #COVID19 #socialisolation as the #secondwave ( #thirdwave ?)is upon us, superspeed readers like me can read 300+ pages/hour, so yes, I have read the book ... and many more today. I requested and received a temporary digital Advance Reader Copy of this book from #NetGalley, the publisher and the author in exchange for an honest review. From the publisher, as I do not repeat the contents or story of books in reviews, I let them do it as they do it better than I do [smiling cat emoji]. The 30 cross-stitch designs in Gail Bussi's signature hand-lettering style will encourage mindful, relaxing stitching and are easy enough for beginners. Create personalized designs with alphabets provided. Each project includes a chart, finished photo, materials list, and full instructions. Gail Bussi has had her cross-stitch designs published in all of the major needlework magazines in the UK, US, and France, and is the author of several needlework books. Her images and artwork have also been made into greeting cards and other items. After suffering personal trauma, she stopped creating for a time but has recently found healing through the power of stitching meaningful words in her designs and finding peace in the stitching itself. With this book, she seeks to share this power with others. This is a great little cross-stitch book that will get you to make amazing creations in no time at all. The ideas are cute and the instructions will make sense to those newbie stitchers and old-hats in no time flat. And as it is a craft that does not cost a lot, I will recommend this book to friends, family and patrons alike as the words are meaningful to so many kinds of people. (I will likely paint them instead of stitching them, but that is me!) As always, I try to find a reason to not rate with stars as I simply adore emojis (outside of their incessant use by [bless]-ed Social Influencer Millennials/#BachelorNation survivors/Tik-Tok and YouTube Millionaires/snowflakes / literally-like-overusers etc. on Instagram and Twitter... Get a real job, people!) so let's give it [5 thread spool emojis] --Janet Pole Cousineau, Librarian at A.E.M.S. Library/ Community Kitchen
Crafters hoping to use cross-stitching as a balm for the stresses of every day life should look no further.-- Publishers Weekly, June 7, 2021
NetGalley Review: 3 stars Updated 02 Apr 2021 This is a sweet little book of cross stitch patterns, mostly phrases with cute illustrations to accompany them. For instance: Friends are Earth angels, Celebrate everything, bloom, live with passion, Do it with heart, Make your dreams real, Write from the heart, and Together is the best place to be. There are lots of mentions of cake, home, angels, etc. Each design has a detailed pattern with colors needed and a color photo of the finished project. These include wall hangings, tiny pillows, etc. but the instructions are more for the cross-stitch than the projects you can make with them. The color scheme is very pastel, feminine and old fashioned. Many of them reminded me of the 1980's. I realize that's probably the aesthetic of most folks who are doing cross-stitch these days, but the themes, colors and designs are not terribly modern. Some are more so than others. I think most cross-stitchers will greatly enjoy it though. I read a temporary digital ARC of this book for review. -Alicia Bayer, Media at a Magical Life NetGalley Review: 4 stars Updated 03 Apr 2021 Inspired Cross Stitch is a charming book of softly colored designs that use Backstitch & whole Cross Stitch almost entirely. This makes it great for beginners and those wanting to translate the designs to other charted techniques. The charts are clear, in color, and easy to read (they can also be enlarged). The color keys are straightforward and list each kind of stitch separately, a nice touch. The instructions for each project are straight and to the point. Often they also include finishing instructions. The book ends with a set of four alphabets for creating your own pieces and a visual index of all the projects. The projects are all non-religious inspirational sayings. Although angels and mandalas appear in some designs, the intention of the book is to inspire without being tied to any particular tradition. While those seeking projects with a Christian focus will be disappointed by the lack of these, they will still find plenty to like. -Janet Perry, Consumer Reviewer NetGalley Review: 4 stars Updated 31 Mar 2021 Sweet and colorful designs that are perfect for Spring. Cross-Stitching has become a hobby over the last few years and when I saw this book, I needed to have a look! These cross-stitch patterns are very pretty. They use more light colored thread and look almost delicate and would be for a baby girls room or just for Spring decorations. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review. --Jess Von, Consumer Reviewer NetGalley Review: 4 stars Updated 31 Mar 2021 What a lovely cross stitch book. It is packed with beautiful patterns that I can't wait to stitch and her writing just makes it that much sweeter. --Emilee Meeks, Consumer Reviewer NetGalley Review: 5 stars Last Updated 01 Apr 2021 Inspired Cross Stitch by Gail Bussi is my new favorite cross-stitch book. The book, which is divided into three sections, Inspire, Create, and Connect, contains 30 beautiful cross-stitch charts and I am sure you will find several that you just have to stitch. A beginner will have no problem stitching the charts, but they definitely include enough detail to make even the most seasoned stitcher happy. In addition to the beautiful photographs and charts, there are wonderful, inspirational stories throughout the book. Each chart comes with a complete materials list and a brief story about the design. The instructions and tips that are included are helpful even to someone who has been cross stitching for almost 50 years as I have. I especially appreciated her instructions on how to finish the stitched pieces and found them very simple and easy to follow. I recommend this book to all stitchers. Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for providing me with a digital copy of this book prior to publication in exchange for my review. This review is being posted immediately to my GoodReads account and will be posted on Amazon and Barnes and Noble upon the book's publication --Donna Boyd, Educator at Reading Enrichment/Literacy Group NetGalley Review: 5 stars Updated 31 Mar 2021 Lovely cross-stitch book! The patterns are cute and include a broad range of uplifting messages while also including color and chart, if you want to replicate the pattern as they have used and photographed. There are pictures for each pattern, as well as the stich chart. Most cross-stitch books that have I happened upon, really don't have too many patterns as they are not that large. However, I was pleasantly surprised that this book has tons of patterns! --Kate Z, Consumer Reviewer NetGalley Review: 5 stars Updated 31 Mar 2021 When life for the entire galaxy and planet has turned on its end, you are continuing to #maskup and #lockdown to be in #COVID19 #socialisolation as the #secondwave ( #thirdwave ?)is upon us, superspeed readers like me can read 300+ pages/hour, so yes, I have read the book ... and many more today. I requested and received a temporary digital Advance Reader Copy of this book from #NetGalley, the publisher and the author in exchange for an honest review. From the publisher, as I do not repeat the contents or story of books in reviews, I let them do it as they do it better than I do [smiling cat emoji]. The 30 cross-stitch designs in Gail Bussi's signature hand-lettering style will encourage mindful, relaxing stitching and are easy enough for beginners. Create personalized designs with alphabets provided. Each project includes a chart, finished photo, materials list, and full instructions. Gail Bussi has had her cross-stitch designs published in all of the major needlework magazines in the UK, US, and France, and is the author of several needlework books. Her images and artwork have also been made into greeting cards and other items. After suffering personal trauma, she stopped creating for a time but has recently found healing through the power of stitching meaningful words in her designs and finding peace in the stitching itself. With this book, she seeks to share this power with others. This is a great little cross-stitch book that will get you to make amazing creations in no time at all. The ideas are cute and the instructions will make sense to those newbie stitchers and old-hats in no time flat. And as it is a craft that does not cost a lot, I will recommend this book to friends, family and patrons alike as the words are meaningful to so many kinds of people. (I will likely paint them instead of stitching them, but that is me!) As always, I try to find a reason to not rate with stars as I simply adore emojis (outside of their incessant use by [bless]-ed Social Influencer Millennials/#BachelorNation survivors/Tik-Tok and YouTube Millionaires/snowflakes / literally-like-overusers etc. on Instagram and Twitter... Get a real job, people!) so let's give it [5 thread spool emojis] --Janet Pole Cousineau, Librarian at A.E.M.S. Library/ Community Kitchen
