Embroidered Birds and their Habitats

Embroidered Birds and their Habitats is divided into three parts, Part one covers the basics for getting started, from choosing a suitable bird to how to draw up the design. Part two takes a look at the processes and techniques involved in creating your own designs. Part three showcases examples of the author’s own work. Plus there’s info on finishing and framing, a stitch glossary and a handy reference section.

* Stitch *

Beautiful birds, no complicated jargon or ‘impossible’ stitches.

It’s a great book, no complicated jargon or ‘impossible’ stitches, with clear and concise guidance throughout. The book covers so much more than how to embroider birds, it walks you through everything needed to create your own artwork. The author’s love of birds and nature is reflected throughout the book – the birds shown are native to Australia however this in no way detracts from its use. It’s hard to choose a favourite embroidered bird from the book although the Forest Kingfishers (page 15) are so striking, and the colouring and texture of the tree branch and Grey Strike Thrush (page 50) is amazing. If you like birds and nature you will love this book.

– Mandy Strahand * Customer Review *

I was particularly interested in this book as I love nature, the seasons, garden birds and also love embroidery. I was attracted by the front cover that immediately grabbed my attention and I was not disappointed. The format was very clear, beautiful photographs, clear instructions with useful advise and tips throughout. There was information how to research habitats, useful resources and how to draw and get started. I particularly found this informative as I am a beginner with drawing and has given me confidence to try. I watch my garden birds every day.

I would consider this book for an advanced level however I know all the embroidery stitches in the stitch glossary and how to build the picture is very clearly explained. I loved the idea to create a stitch sampler and will definitely do this. I highly recommend this book, it is beautifully researched and designed, very inspirational and will be an invaluable reference book.

– Margaret Hitchins * Customer Review *

Beautifully produced, this book focuses on hand embroidery rather than machine, which makes a refreshing change. There are chapters on how to sketch out your composition and design your project, with ideas for utilising photos as an aid. Samples of finished work are scattered throughout, rather than just at the end which I really liked. There are hints and tips on choosing fabric to enhance your work.

Then come three very detailed projects, again interspersed with stitch ideas for the birds and habitats, full of photos, text and diagrams. So comprehensive that following a project through would be like a private workshop with the author. Finally, there’s a section on framing up your work, examples of finished work and a stich guide complete with diagrams.

I really do love this book, which I received for review, and can’t wait to try some of the techniques. It’s a joy!

– Christi Poulsom * Customer Review *

Are you fascinated by birds? Embroiderer Judy Wilford was too. Choose your favourite bird, learn about its habitat and draw up a working design. Get inspired by two completed projects and discover how to layer and stitch your own background. There’s even a section on how to mount and frame your pieces.

* Sew Magazine, April 2023 *

Judy works with fabric and thread, employing various hand embroidery techniques. Her unique embroideries are the result of years of study and practice in design, drawing, painting, print-making, clay, and object making. She is fascinated by the flexibility and technical variety inherent in textiles, especially hand embroidery.

Her works are held in diplomatic, corporate, and private collections in Australia and internationally. She holds a Churchill Fellowship, a Diploma of Design, an Embroiderers Guild, NSW Proficiency Certificate for Applique with Distinction, and is an accredited tutor with the Guild and TAFE.

Judy is a well-regarded tutor throughout Australia and New Zealand at Textile Forums and McGregor Schools (University of Southern Queensland), teaching her developed techniques focused on birds and their habitats, the landscape, and narrative works. She won the 2013 National Australian Society of Miniature Arts Awards for Mixed Media and the 2012 Yvonne Perring Memorial Award for best use of Traditional Techniques.

She has written articles for various magazines and books, such as Masterworks and Inspirations, and authored the book ‘Embroidered Landscapes’.