500 Cross-Stitch Blocks

This book has something for everyone. There is a wide range of themes and since the designs are generally small they have a number of uses alone (keyfobs, bookmarks, placemats, ornaments, etc) or they can be combined with other designs for larger works.The charts are very easy to read - they are large and are charted using both symbols and colored squares so you can get a sense of the color of the finished piece while still being able to easily tell which thread you should use for each stitch.I do agree with another reviewer that the lack of pictures of the finished pieces is unfortunate but it does not prevent me from recommending this book (but it did 'knock off' one star).

This book will send your cross stitching mind awhirl with ideas. The book is based loosely on mosaic tiles. For experienced stitchers, it has some designs I've not seen in other books. For beginning stitchers, the designs aren't difficult to stitch, but not enough color pictures of finished work to show how to put blocks together into a design. You will need some graph paper to make the best use of this book. The layout of this book is beautifully done with each two page spread color themed. My current favorites are the fleur-de-lis pillow and English garden designs. Happy Stitching!