Mixed Media: New Studio Techniques by Isobel Hall & Maggie Grey, published by d4daisy. ISBN 978-0-9555371-7-2, price 17.00 available from www.d4daisy.com

Whether you regard yourself as a craftsperson or artist, we all love experimenting. Experiment is the middle name of the two authors. Lots to delight here – ideas, expertise, finished images of projects, new methods. This book, as always pushes the boundaries, makes us think and makes better artists of us all. I love the vessels, jewellery and bags. The journal covers and work with Evolon is amazing. Clear instructions are given for working with many new materials. The standard of work, reproduction and photography as always from this publisher are of the highest standard. I always admire Michael Wick’s photography, without it the books would not be the same.

Embroidered Originals by Sue Rangeley, softback published by D4Daisy. ISBN 978-0-9555371-5-8, price 19.00 from www.d4daisy.com

This book should be on every textile and stitch lover’s shelf. It won’t often be on the shelf though as you will find it thoroughly useful as are all the other books from this publisher. Each book vies with the last to be the very best. I can never wait for the next one to come along.

Highly recommended for its creativity, design, techniques and instruction, this book is not to be missed. Superb in every way, Michael Wicks photography is the icing on the cake. There is so much to learn from this book – from glimpses of Sue’s incredible sketchbooks to wonderful techniques with stitch – embroidery, applique, beadwork, wire edging and much more. Sue takes you through the process of designing from inspiration, sketches, samples and practical application. A textile artist at the very top of the business, this is a superb book not only for yourself but for all your textile friends. This book is clearly in my top ten of must-haves.

Contrasting Elements by Jae Maries, softback published by d4daisy. ISBN 978-0-9555371-6-5, price 17.00 from www.d4daisy.com

Contrast is a key element of any art form and textile artist, Jae Maries thoroughly explores the subject in this book. Dynamic colour, materials, design, techniques and effects are shown throughout this book. The supporting text leads you through the processes and stimulates more ideas to explore. The photography of Michael Wicks is again outstanding. I’m sure you will learn something new from this book and thoroughly enjoy working your way through the step by step instructions until your own creativity kicks in. I would also urge readers to check out the other books by d4daisy, they are all five star.

Stitching the Textured Surface by Lynda Monk and Carol McFee, softback published by d4daisy. ISBN 978-0-9555371-4-1, price 17.00 from www.d4daisy.com

Find out how to use various mediums and techniques to create fabulous textiles. From postcards to vessels, this book abounds in creative ideas. The emphasis is on texture and form. Superb examples of work using Tyvek and Lutradur, masks, gesso and molding paste and so much more. This fascinating 80 page colourful book will have you brimming with ideas. The production of this book is top notch and it is a delight to use. The instructions are clear and easy to follow, beautifully illustrated by Michael Wicks photography and the work showcased is nothing short of wonderful. Highly recommended.

Stitches, Straps and Layers by Maggie Grey, softback published by d4daisy. ISBN 978-9555371-3-4, price 19.00 from www.d4daisy.com

The title of this book does not sound anywhere near as exciting as it is. Textile enthusiasts will be stunned and thrilled by the contents of this book. Maggie Grey’s skills and innovation in creating interesting textiles are once more matched by Michael Wicks incredible photography that really makes these books what they are. Colour and detail jump off the page.

If you are wondering how to use any of the recently introduced techniques in textiles, this is the book for you. From fusing to burning, stitching and distressing and just about everything you ever wanted to know how to do – this book has it. A variety of materials are used including felt, paper and foil. Instructions are clear and concise and this book concentrates on lavish illustrations to show you what can be done, but ultimately to encourage you to experiment. Another must-have book.

Exploring Colour with Julia Caprara, softback published by d4daisy. ISBN 978-0-9555371-2-7, price 17.00 from www.d4daisy.com

In the world of embroidery, the late Julia Caprara was known for colour. In this lavishly produced 80-page book, she explores painting with stitches. Julia explores colour around us. In chapter one she encourages you how to see, observe and record as well as make colour collections. To achieve a greater understanding of colour, Julia invites you to participate in exercises and practical tasks to explore colour to the full. 

Chapter two goes deeper and looks at colour theory and how to use harmonies, contrasts and work with one family of colour. In chapter three, Julia looks at working within limits and explores some stitches. Chapter four is dedicated to inspiration and finding your own colour schemes.

Julia’s work is plentiful throughout the book and is truly amazing. d4daisy have given this book the incredible level of production that is their norm – quality throughout with Michael Wicks’ magnificent photography. I don’t know of any other book quite like this one – informative, practical, inspiring.

Embellish and Stitch by Valerie Campbell-Harding and Maggie Grey, softback published by d4daisy. ISBN 978-0-9555371-03, price 14.00 from www.d4daisy.com

The embellishing machine was the prerogative of felters, but now these two innovative authors expose its virtues in the world of creative stitching. Both authors are renowned for their work and you will learn far more from one of their books (see other reviews on Maggie Grey books) than many other authors.

All d4daisy books are top quality and Michael Wicks’ photographs bring the textiles to life. These books are produced on heavyweight paper and are lavish. A comprehensive getting started chapter leads into creative stitching with textured surfaces. Techniques are explored by hand and machine. Learn how to apply different fabrics for texture, how to create pattern and how to add stitches. Discover the art of distortion, felting and couching. Find out how to tuck, gather and weave. Finally there are useful notes on taking the ideas further. 

The examples of work are superb and as such provide so much inspiration, but this is a practical book too, that will teach you how to achieve stunning effects with an embellishing machine or hand tools. Highly recommended.

Textile Translations by Maggie Grey, softback published by D4daisy. ISBN 978-0-9555371-1-0, price 17.00 available from www.d4daisy.com

Peel your eyes off the cover, to discover within Maggie Grey’s latest amazing feats. If I had three wishes to be anyone in textiles, all three might well be Maggie Grey. Her vision is a journey of discovery, her use of colour empowering, her imagination at its zenith. Yes, I like her work. I applaud this woman’s unique talent. I know she often pays tribute to that other great, the late Valerie Campbell-Harding, and rightly so, but for me Maggie has surpassed the latter, she is sublime and supreme. 

This is by far, the best book I have seen on mixed media. Maggie has chosen just a few materials, but it’s like the old joke, it’s how you tell them, and for mixed media, it’s how you use it. She has fully explored the materials and their endless possibilities and given her utmost, her best. Learn what you can create with paper, gesso and salt. Discover how to incorporate new materials, how to tap into your creativity by using a sketchbook. Find out how to add texture, make resists and so much more.

Clear instructions are useful not only to textile artists but also for embroiderers, paper crafters and more. Find a new direction for your work and fly. Five chapters release the thinking and creative process behind projects by looking at themes. The final chapter offers further inspiration and there is also a resources section. 

I am sure that this will be a huge success and sell out very quickly, as anyone flipping through the miraculous work and sumptuous photos will realise that this is a must-have. Any success it does receive will be well-earned. 

This book shows off Maggie’s skills to perfection. Michael Wicks’ photographs are fantastic. The editing is superb, I cannot find any fault. The production of this book is Rolls-Royce quality. You might well find that this is the only book you need on mixed media.