Zen and the Art of Needlework: Exploring the Links Between Needlecraft, Spirituality, and Creativity

by Sandra Detrixhe

Book Overview

Passionate crafters know that needlecraft - knitting, sewing, quilting, cross-stitch, et al is so much more than a hobby or a way of passing the time. "Zen and the Art of Needlecraft" explores... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1593373759
• ISBN13: 9781593373757
• Release Date: September 2005
• Publisher: Adams Media Corporation
• Length: 213 Pages
• Weight: 0.46 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 5.4" x 7.2"

Customer Reviews

A spark to ignite creativity

Sandra Detrixhe, herself a lifetime sewer, has blended together a mixture of stories to form one cohesive book, Zen and the Art of Needlecraft. Though Zen is mentioned, and its tenants used to provide a thread for a collection of tales about herself, her family, and her friends. This book isn't completely about needlework, but more how that needlework affects those it touches, the creators and recipients. This book is crammed with useful information. At the beginning of each of the ten chapters, Detrixhe provides a useful tip of two. These are the sorts of tips essential for the novice, and gentle reminders for the experienced practitioner, such as how to get organized and how to position your threads in your needlework tapestry to make it appear more tidy. Two projects- a tote bag and a zen wall hanging are explained with clear, complete directions, so those new to sewing can try their hands at a couple "can't mess up" projects. Before you turn away because you think you're too experienced for this book, though, allow me to say that the stories about herself, family, and friends are my favorite part. They're funny, touching, and inspiring. As she relates how she plans to preserve a 100 year old christening dress, or how to restore a precious doll, or planning for a future quilt, you might get some new ideas for a few new projects of your own. Zen and the Art of Needlecraft is a perfect gift for the person in your life who is just beginning to work with a needle, and it is the quintessential vacation book for those thread crafters who have a bit of practice. It's small, portable, and extremely well written. Highest recommendations.

Touching & Inspiring

Midwest comfortably meets Far East. Like the author's earlier "Zen and the Art of Quilting," this book is an educational, touching, and inspiring read. Each chapter has creative tips and gives quilters, knitters, stitchers, etc. several things to think about throughout the creative process. The stories of the author's friends and family will remind you of your own friends and family and your personal connection to the history of needlecraft and even modern ecology. Bottom line: The book inspired me to return to quilting after a long break.