"Smocking has been revived as the interest in hand-decorated surfaces increases...Page after page of patterns...each with color graph photograph of finished design, and written directions... include(s) pointers on fabrics, stitch instructions, and symbols....Patterns reflect popular favorites, holidays, and ease of implementation. Easter becomes an egg; animals include domestic and wild; and fruits, vegetables, toys, and people showcase familiar objects-apples, hyacinths, bicycles, and more."- Booklist.
I really enjoy this book. The plates are clear and easy to read. The breadth of pictures in the picture smocking areas is incredible. I do wish it had more geometric patterns, though. This book has been a great resource for choosing elements to combine into my own designs.One warning -- I do NOT like the color choices made for the photographs at all. However, I've never yet used the colors specified in a smocking pattern or plate.
Nice reference book
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 25 years ago
This book is a nice library of basic patterns. It's nice to have on hand if you need to put a garment together for a holiday and you don't have a particular plate in mind. It is also a nice starting point for designing your own, more complex designs. Most of the books I've found on smocking have weird, abstract designs or the fashions in them are hopelessly out-of-date. This is a refreshing change.
ThriftBooks sells millions of used books at the lowest everyday prices. We personally assess every book's quality and offer rare, out-of-print treasures. We deliver the joy of reading in recyclable packaging with free standard shipping on US orders over $15. ThriftBooks.com. Read more. Spend less.