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

✨ Tilda Songbird Projects ✨ Six sweet patterns + t ✨ Tilda Songbird Projects ✨ Six sweet patterns + two freebies, all stitched up in the dreamy new Songbird fabrics. Soft pastels, tiny motifs, and delicate details make these beginner‑friendly projects perfect for gifting or using up your favourite scraps.You’ll find the paid patterns in my shop, and the free Love Tag + Threaded Tokens are linked in my profile.💬 Tell me — which project would you love to make first? I’d love to know your favourite!Thanks for following along with my Songbird sewing this month — more pretty projects are coming soon. And a big thank you to @Tilda_Australia for the gorgeous fabric.#tildasongbird #iloveTilda #smallsewingprojects #makersgonnamake #sewingpatterns
💡Sewing doesn't have to be complicated! This Hexag 💡Sewing doesn't have to be complicated! This Hexagon Trivet comes together in minutes—no binding, no stress, just turn, press, and you’re done. 🎉🌟 Perfect for charm packs or leftover 10" squares. Handmade kitchen decor has never been easier.✨ Comment TRIVET for the link + enjoy 25% off this week only!Pattern Details: East Hexagon Trivet and coasters - available in our Pattern Store and Etsy Shop.#sewingproject #precutsquares #easysewing #sewingaddict #stashbuster
Fresh makes for the season! Looking for your next Fresh makes for the season! Looking for your next weekend project? These spring patterns are perfect for brightening your sewing table.✨ Comment SPRING for a link to our spring pattern collection. 🧵 Which one will you make first? 📌 Save this post for when you need inspiration.#springsewing #eastersewing #beginnersewing #makersgonnamake #quicksew
✂️ Cute end caps are the quickest way to give your ✂️ Cute end caps are the quickest way to give your drawstring bags a really polished finish.They keep your cords tidy, add a pop of colour, and make the whole project feel more intentional.Want to sew this mini bag? Comment MINI and I’ll send the pattern link your way.Pattern details: Mini Drawstring Gift Bag - available in our pattern store and etsy shop.Fabric details: Tilda Songbird, thanks to @tilda_australiaEnd Caps: available on Amazon#tildafabric #bagmaker #beginnersewing #sewingcommunity #tildasongbird
✨ Hop into Easter sewing! ✨ These sweet little bun ✨ Hop into Easter sewing! ✨ These sweet little bunnies are quick to stitch and make the perfect seasonal gift or decoration. With Easter just around the corner, now’s the time to add a touch of handmade charm to your celebrations.🐇 Comment BUNNY below and I’ll send you the pattern link straight to your inbox. Bunny Coaster pattern is available in our Pattern Store and Etsy Shop.Will you be stitching one up for your Easter table or gifting them to someone special? 🌸💛#eastersewing #handmadebunny #sewngforEaster #DIYGiftideas #aspoonfulofsugardesigns
✨ One Caddy, Many Uses ✨ Meet my brand new Makers ✨ One Caddy, Many Uses ✨ Meet my brand new Makers Caddy sewing pattern — the ultimate organizer for all your creative supplies!🧵🧶✂️ In this reel I’m showing three different ways to use it, but the possibilities are endless.📍 Available now in our Pattern Store and Etsy Shop.💬 Comment CADDY below and I’ll send you the link directly!#makerscaddy #sewingproject #sewinglove #sewingaddict #craftstorage
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

  • Gathered Round Basket – 3 Sizes
  • Hexie Pincushion {Free Sewing Tutorial}
  • The Ultimate Resource for Vintage Haberdashery Lovers
  • Easter Projects to Sew
  • The Ultimate Guide to Drawstrings
  • Tutorial: Gathered Round Basket
  • Fabric Gift Pouch

Copyright © 2026 Lisa. K. Cox - A Spoonful of Sugar