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Bargello: An Explosion in Color has exploded in price, again. This has happened several times to this book and to a few others, as well. To replace this book just cost me more than I was charging for it. I apologize for the price increase, this is common in the world of rare books.
If you have read many of the used book listings here you know I taught myself Needlepoint and Bargello Needlepoint from books. This is the #1 book that taught me to stitch, and stitch correctly, Bargello Needlepoint.
Margaret Boyles is a Master Teacher, her directions are concise and clear. her graphs are in full color and good size you don't have to peer at them with a magnifying glass.
I always have trouble finding this book in good condition or even decent condition. Each time I replace this book, it costs more than the last time. I know the price is high, it reflects the "market". Bargello: An Explosion in Color is becoming very rare and very expensive.
An update: more rare and more expensive every time I look for them.
The book is set up in sensibly, going from easy to stitch all the way to advanced & 4 Way Bargello. It took me 3 months to go from easy to fairly advanced but I will admit there are some patterns that are still beyond me and I haven't yet managed a successful 4-Way Bargello.
Ms Boyles begins the book with a primer on materials, then stitches. Then Bargello tips and understanding Bargello design. My first Bargello project, after Ripple of course, everyone does Ripples first, was Canvas 11 from page 45.
I stitched my way through the book. Not full size projects but sample sizes to learn the stitches. As I finished Canvas 52, an Average Level Florentine Embroidery Flat Top Pattern on page 104 I began to get very busy building NewNeedlepoint.com.
But I wanted to try an Advanced Pattern. I stitched Canvas 53, on page 106. It came out very good, good enough that I offered the pattern in my (now closed, never sold even 1) Bargello Category.
The book has further sections on Mitred Bargello, which is what she calls 4-Way Bargello and finishing and mounting instructions.
Anyway, I know I am talking about myself here. I want you to understand how great this book is.
Published by Macmillian Publishers in 1974, this is a hard cover book with 149 pages. Bargello, An Explosion In Color is not dated at all, even the colors Mrs. Boyles uses seem current (most of them anyway)
I have several copies of this book. You will receive the best condition copy I have at the time of your order.