Freestyle embroidered mandalas (Paperback)

More than 60 stitches and techniques in inspiring combinations. When top artists from various disciplines collaborate, the result is bound to be greater than the sum of the individuals' skills. Having discussed various possibilities of working together, fine artist Monique Day-Wilde and master embroiderers Hazel Blomkamp and Di van Niekerk finally chose mandalas. Using Monique's original hand-drawn mandala designs as their templates, Hazel and Di filled them with creative surface embroidery using a wide range of stitches and techniques in stunning combinations. From simple, monochromatic line designs to colourful and flamboyant bead-and-thread combinations, the embroidered mandalas will inspire and delight everyone from rank beginners to the most experienced. Using different base fabrics, from traditional embroidery linen and dupion silk to shweshwe and mattress ticking to best showcase the various designs, stitches and threads, the authors share loads of ideas and tips and offer instruction with a fresh approach to surface embroidery. Stitches include the old favourites, such as simple back- and chain stitch, as well as more intricate needle lace, trellis couching and weaving. Beads abound to add sparkle and finishing touches, and special effects are created by incorporating the occasional bit of trapunto, ribbon embroidery and applique'. Both line and colour templates of the 25 designs are included, with a detailed stitch diagram and list of threads and materials for every project. Some templates have been given two completely different embroidery treatments to illustrate how versatile the designs are. Each template also has an artist's annotation about the design inspiration and colours used - adding interest and providing practical information for embroiderers who wish to follow their own colouring. Colouring with ink and crayon prior to colouring with thread can add a whole new dimension to your embroidery. Beautiful photographs of the completed embroideries add to the book's visual appeal and for good measure there is a complete stitch gallery with illustrations and instructions for all the stitches and techniques used.