A Spoonful of Sugar

Make. Bake. Create.

Menu
  • Home
  • About
    • About Us
    • Press
    • FAQ
    • Disclosure Policy
    • Contact Us
  • Crafts
    • Crochet
    • DIY
    • Embroidery/Cross stitch
    • Gift Wrapping
    • Knitting
    • Miscellaneous
    • Paper Crafts
  • Holidays
    • New Year’s
    • Australia Day
    • Back to School
    • Valentines Day
    • Easter
    • ANZAC Day
    • Mother’s Day
    • Father’s Day
    • Halloween
    • Christmas
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Bars & Slices
    • Bread & Pastries
    • Cakes
    • Cookies
    • Confectionery
    • Cupcakes & Muffins
    • Desserts
    • Drinks
    • Ice Cream
    • Jams/Preserves
    • Main Meals
  • Sewing
    • Sewing Tutorials
    • Quilting
    • Sewing & Quilting Patterns
  • Family
    • Back to School
    • Family Fun
    • Our Home
    • Parenting
    • Travel
  • Shop
    • Pattern Store
    • Etsy Store

Book Review: Embroidery Companion by Alicia Paulson

October 16, 2010 By A Spoonful of Sugar - 17 Comments

I was fortunate to pick up a copy of Embroidery Companion – Classic Designs for Modern Living by Alicia Paulson at the library yesterday. I have spent some time this afternoon admiring all the wonderful and creative projects within its pages. The hardest decision is going to be which project to start on first!

I have been a reader of Alicia’s blog, Posie Gets Cozy for a couple of years and have been awaiting an opportunity to read her latest book. It contains 30 projects that include techniques such as decorative embroidery, counted cross stitch, and crewelwork.

The projects have a fresh appeal, whilst still utilising some more traditional designs.

Here is a peak at some of my favourite projects –

Folk Sampler

Storybook Pillowcase
Strawberry Tablecloth
Tree of Life

Embroidery Companion will be going on my Christmas list for sure!

Are there any new craft/sewing books that you would recommend?

Filed Under: Embroidery/Cross stitch, Uncategorized Tagged With: book review

« Bliss
Teen Art »

Comments

  1. two hippos says

    October 16, 2010 at 12:20 am

    I haven’t seen this new book any where, except on Amazon. It looks great, although my embroidery skills are some what limited. Look forward to seeing what you make.

    Reply
  2. Tine says

    October 16, 2010 at 1:11 am

    I love that Storybook Pillowcase and the Tree of Life! Too cute!

    Reply
  3. Jenny of Elefantz says

    October 16, 2010 at 1:25 am

    Just added to my pre-Christmas list, Lisa – thank you! I love her work!
    Hugs
    Jenny
    xxx

    Reply
  4. Mel Makes Pretty says

    October 16, 2010 at 1:57 am

    Looks like a beautiful book. I love the last project Tree of Life.
    Thanks for sharing,
    ~Mel

    Reply
  5. dutch sisters says

    October 16, 2010 at 2:27 am

    Great book, so much inspiration! The tree of life is beautiful.

    Reply
  6. suzitee says

    October 16, 2010 at 2:32 am

    Yep, Tree of Life is my favourite too! I have too many cross stitch kits here to even contemplate the other projects LOL. I’ve ordered a new book this week…hopefully it will arrive before you visit 🙂

    Reply
  7. Linda says

    October 16, 2010 at 3:33 am

    I love the strawberry tablecloth, it looks like it has a bit of dimension, but as you know thats me i have a thing for tablecloths-well coffee tabe tablecloths.
    …and no it hasn’t hit me yet that i dont have any kids at school left, it sure will in Jan when i dont have to pay any school fees. Although it was strange doing my last pick up on Friday.
    xx

    Reply
  8. Simone de Klerk says

    October 16, 2010 at 4:11 am

    I especially love the Tree of Life!
    My favorite book this year is Schnibbles times two, By Carrie Nelson. You might have guessed that LOL
    Have a great weekend!

    Reply
  9. Bela says

    October 16, 2010 at 4:12 am

    Oh, Lisa, what lovely artwork!!!! The second pic is sooooo pretty!!!

    Thanks for this delightful post!! Bela.

    Reply
  10. Amanda says

    October 16, 2010 at 4:49 am

    Alicia is so talented isn’t she? This book looks beautiful. I’ll have to speak nicely to Santa! Lots of love, Amanda xxx

    Reply
  11. Posie Patchwork says

    October 16, 2010 at 4:50 am

    Looks super pretty, i don’t do enough embroidery, love Posie

    Reply
  12. Tonya says

    October 16, 2010 at 6:48 am

    I am definitely going to have to check out this book. Cross stitch was my introduction to the wonderful world of needlework over 18 years ago while pregnant with my first son. I still love it, even though I don’t do it as much. I just picked up Fa la la Felt and the new Wee Wonderfuls book and both are fantastic!

    Reply
  13. Jeni says

    October 16, 2010 at 2:37 pm

    What a gorgeous book to have in your collection…I don’t know which is my favourite…..
    thanks for sharing

    Reply
  14. Sew Useful Designs says

    October 16, 2010 at 8:12 pm

    What a beautiful book, Lisa! I too have enjoyed Alicia’s blog for a couple of years, I love her mix of traditional and modern – and her photography is exquisite!

    I particularly love the Tree of Life project too – think this book will be going on my Xmas List!!!

    Thanks sweetie!
    Vikki 🙂 x

    Reply
  15. Embroidery says

    October 19, 2010 at 2:58 am

    Wow….Awesome work i simply like it….Really the embroidery designs are very attractive……

    Reply
  16. Happy Cottage Quilter says

    October 21, 2010 at 2:05 pm

    Love, love, love the sampler!

    Reply
  17. Corrie says

    October 25, 2010 at 8:57 pm

    uh oh I’ve just bought 4 cooking and craft books in the last month online and think this one might need to be added to the list! love love love the pretty pillowcase! how lucky are you to have it at your library – wowee!

    Corrie:)

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Threads
  • TikTok
SUBSCRIBE TO NEWSLETTER
×

Categories

Archives

PURCHASE PDF PATTERNS

We offer over 100 affordable PDF sewing patterns available for download from our store website or Etsy store. Each pattern includes detailed instructions, numerous photos, and templates.

WEB STORE ETSY STORE

Instagram

🧵 Tip of the Day: Snip as You Sew! ✂️Want 🧵 Tip of the Day: Snip as You Sew! ✂️Want cleaner seams and a professional finish? A quick trim after each seam keeps your project looking polished and prevents messy threads from getting in the way!I always reach for my SOHMO thread snips—sharp, precise, and perfect for effortless trimming while I sew! 🪡✨💡 Try this simple habit and see the difference in your sewing projects!💬 Do you snip as you sew? Let’s me know in the comments! ⬇️Comment NEWSLETTER to get on the list and receive helpful tips straight to your inbox.#SewingTips #SewingTools #ThreadSnips #SewingHacks #Handmade #DIYProjects #SewingForBeginners #SewingLove #CraftingTime #SewingCommunity
🌟 10 Quilt Blocks to Sew This Weekend! 🌟Wh 🌟 10 Quilt Blocks to Sew This Weekend! 🌟Whether you're looking for a scrap friendly, beginner friendly quilting project or want to try your hand at foundation paper piecing (FPP) - these blocks are just what you need!🧵 Multiple sizes and colouring sheet included. All patterns are available in both Letter Size and A4 format to suit your home printer.🎉 Limited time offer: All FPP blocks are 20% off in our Etsy Store. Grab your favourites before the sale ends. 🔥📌 Store link in our profile or comment ETSY and I'll send you the link.Swipe to see 10 of my favourite blocks. I have more than 55 blocks so head to the store to expand your quilt block library.Which block is your favourite?#quiltblocks #DIYquilting #FPPblocks #quiltingfun #scrapquilting #easyquilting #beginnerquilter
💡 No tricky binding, no stress! This Hexagon Tr 💡 No tricky binding, no stress! This Hexagon Trivet is the ultimate beginner friendly sewing project, and the best part? The raw edges are neatly enclosed INSIDE - just turn it right side out,  press and you're done! 🎉🌟 You can use 10 inch precut squares- perfect for those leftover fabrics in your stash. Whether you're sewing for yourself or gifting homemade kitchen decor, this pattern is a gamechanger.Comment TRIVET and I'll send you the pattern link.#handmadehome #precutfabric #easysewing #sewingforbeginners #handmade #easyhexagontrivetandcoaster #quiltingcotton
🎉 Beginner Quilters, This One is for You! 🎉 🎉 Beginner Quilters, This One is for You! 🎉Want to sew a colourful Hexagon Trivet with just straight line quilting? This easy sewing project is perfect for beginners. No tricky binding to sew and you get a neat professional finish.Plus you can use 10 inch precut squares for a quick and satisfying make. Perfect for adding a handmade touch to your kitchen or gifting to a friend.Comment TRIVET and I'll send you the link.#easysewing #precutfabric #quiltlover #sewingforbeginners #handmadehome #handmadegifts #simplesewing
🏡💜 Home is where your heart is ❤️🏡I 🏡💜 Home is where your heart is ❤️🏡Introducing the Heart House Foundation Paper Piecing Quilt Block - a cosy design  that brings the warmth of home to every stitch. Available in 5 sizes (2  inch, 3 inch, 4 inch, 5 inch, and 6 inch) this sweet block is perfect for quilts, pillows, pouches and more!Because family is the heart of the home, and every home deserves a little love.Want the pattern? Comment HEART below, and I'll send you the link.#hearthousequiltblock #foundationpaperpiecing #quiltlove #homesweethome #sewingcommunity #sewinglove
✂️ Tip of the Week! ✂️Sewing with Libert ✂️ Tip of the Week! ✂️Sewing with Liberty Tana Lawn? 🌸✨ This stunning fabric deserves the best treatment! A fine needle is key to smooth, snag-free stitches—size 70/10 or 60/8 works like magic, gliding through the delicate weave effortlessly. Pair it with a sharp, fresh needle for crisp, professional results that let those gorgeous Liberty prints shine!Want more sewing tips delivered straight to you? Comment "NEWSLETTER" and I'll send you the link to sign up! 💌💬 What’s your go-to tip for sewing with Liberty fabric? Let’s swap ideas!#LibertyFabric #TanaLawn #SewingTips #FabricLover #QuiltingCommunity #SewingForFun #HandmadeSewing #TextileArt #DIYSewing #SewingInspiration
Follow on Instagram

Featured Pattern

Travel Sewing Kit Pattern

Featured Tutorial

Retro Drawstring Bag

Featured Recipe

Lemon Pound Cake

Connect

  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Threads
  • TikTok
SUBSCRIBE TO NEWSLETTER
×

Popular Posts

  • Liberty Tissue Cover
  • Pretty Liberty Drawstring Pouch
  • Sewing with Liberty Fabric
  • {Back to School} Tissue Cover
  • 10 Gifts to Sew for Mother’s Day
  • Pin Perfection: Everything you Need to Know about Sewing Pins
  • Charm Square Fabric Tray

Copyright © 2025 Lisa. K. Cox - A Spoonful of Sugar