HIP TO STITCH: 20 Contemporary Projects Embellished with Thread

Although this embroidery-centric volume is somewhat dry in attitude, it makes needlework accessible and appealing to a contemporary audience. After an introduction covering embroidery basics, such as fabric, patterns, needles, threads and standard stitches, Barta, a 24-year-old graduate of the BFA program at Colorado State, explains how to complete 20 different projects. They include hair ties, a beaded handbag, a baby bib, a picture frame and kitchen towels. Each project lists specifications (what size the project will be; the threads, fabric and equipment needed; and the stitches involved) and is illustrated with step-by-step instructions. Helpful boxes, such as a list of "tools no embroiderer should be without," appear strategically throughout the text. Despite a bland cover, the book's pages are bright, modern and visually appealing, with 45 color photographs, more than 30 easy-to-understand stitch illustrations and 46 pattern illustrations. (Apr.)