Super Subversive Cross Stitch: 50 Fresh as F*ck Designs

Subversive Cross Stitch blogger Jackson offers 50 wickedly funny designs in this rip-roaring cross stitch pattern guide (after Subversive Cross Stitch). “The cardinal rule... is to enjoy the process and not worry about perfection,” Jackson writes, and she carries that laid-back attitude throughout. The opening chapter covers tools and techniques, including directions on separating strands of embroidery floss and using a fabric hoop. Then come the patterns, broken into six sections: “Holidays,” contains an easy-enough “Bite Me” bat project, as well as a floral “Happy Fucking Birthday”; “A World Gone Mad” features a Handmaid’s Tale–inspired “Nolite te Bastardes Carborundorum, Bitches!”; “Self Help” showcases a rose-adorned “Don’t Be Stupid”; “Cocktail Corner” places “I Think, Therefore I Drink” next to a martini glass; while “Work” features “Get Out of My Office”; and “Gifts” shows readers how to make a floral “May Your Life Be As Amazing As You Pretend It Is on Facebook.” Instructions for changing fonts are provided for those wishing to customize their work, and explanatory illustrations, easy-to-follow charts, and colorful photographs enhance the quirky patterns. Jackson’s fun-filled approach goes a long way to ridding the craft of its fusty image. Those new to cross-stitch will find this to be a kick-ass place to start. (Oct.)