Experiment with stitch fabric & thread to create your own unique textiles This inventive book is a treasure trove of over 40 inspiring practical exercises a rich & creative exploration of fabric & stitch & a fascinating all-round read Elizabeth Healey's approach to sewing is that it should be fun & not like a chore or an exam we need to excel in Her aim is to simply encourage you to pick up a needle & thread & get sewing! The exercises draw inspiration from around the world create corded works of art inspired by Milton Glaser's iconic Bob Dylan poster; create bold embroidered African masks; layer up & cut away to create Mola applique; use bleach & fabric paint to create Aboriginal dreamtime lizards; create knotted works of art inspired by ancient Mayan counting systems; embroider varsity cross-stitch letters or try out decorative Japanese book binding Alternatively try a host of other techniques such as quilting printing dyeing couching tumbled crockery creating pleats & puckers & needlelace Packed with stitch galleries & bursting with slow sewing ideas the book also contains 'behind the stitches' features illuminating insights into sewing movements such as Boro textiles Gee's Bend quilting & Dorset buttons