Joan Elliott

I wouldn't put any stock in the author's flowery descriptions completely butchering real-life cultures, but the patterns are quite lovely. I like that the author included smaller patterns based on the larger ones and various ways to make things using those patterns (e.g. bags, cards, etc).

Ok so I had this book from when it was first published and looked at it a few times then decided I would not do anything from it and sold it. Just recently having watched a video review of the book and having seen one of the three oriental lady designs stitched on a hand dyed fabric, decided I needed to get a copy. So I went on Amazon found a second hand seller and purchased a new hard cover copy. It arrived the other day and apart from a slight tear on the dust jacket it is in excellent show more condition and the designs are superb - but what else would I expect from Joan Elliott who is one of my favourite cross stitch designers and she is very friendly and helpful if you have queries regarding her designs. I think it is the one of the first times I have actually read the commentary besides the pictures. Usually I get a cross stitch book and just look at the designs and decide which I will stitch and not really pay much attention to what is written. Perhaps I should pay more attention in the future. show less

29 of Joan's stunning designs originally published in Cross Stitch Collection and CrossStitcher magazines. Her seasonal fairies were what drew me back into cross stitching after 15 years. The colors and designs are absolutely beautiful.

Beautiful designs! I hope to make them all.