Decorative Stuffed Toys for the Needleworker: Instructions and Full-Size Patterns for Embroidered Animals, Dolls and Ornaments

However, having said that, it's okay. While I can understand the other reviewer's disappointment, to say that the designs are weird is unfair in my opinion. Apparently, that reviewer didn't "get it", so to speak. The toys in this book are very small and have an ethnic flair to them. Due to the elaborate needlework shown on the pictures, I would guess them to be from India, Asia, or Mexico if I were to see them in a shop. These toys are meant to be used as a decoration for your home, not as children's toys; hence, the title, "Decorative Stuffed Toys...etc. They have a folklore style which is very charming and allows for a tremendous amount of experimentation and diversity in how they are made and embellished. If you love doing hand embroidery and want to try your hand on 3-dimensional objects, then this is your book. The author encourages the use of different fabrics and embellishments and hopes you will think "outside of the box" when choosing your materials and embellishments. All in all, it is a very good book for the avid needleworker who would like to try something different.

I had no idea when I ordered this book what a surprise I had coming! I had not seen the cover, so when it arrived my mouth dropped open when I first saw the cover and then startedleafing through inside. Inside isblack and white illustrations and some photos. But it has not only the patterns but illustrations for stitches as well. The patterns are fantastic and I guarantee this book will remain oneof my favorites on my shelfs and get much use!! In my opinionyou get way more for your money on this one!

I was delighted to find this reprint of Douglass' book, having moved away from the library whose battered copy I'd checked out too many times to count. "Decorative Stuffed Toys for the Needleworker" provides patterns for some charming stuffed animals, from a peacock to a poodle, plus a basic rag doll with an extensive wardrobe. But this book also provides a guide to many, many decorative embroidery stitches to embellish the dolls with. Either part, the patterns or the stitch instructions, would be well worth the cost of the book. But finding both in one volume makes this book a real treasure!