Retro Cross Stitch

Retro Cross Stitch by Véronique Enginger is a big and beautiful collection of 500 charts for motifs with a French retro flair to cross stitch. The designs are varied and include many smaller designs as well as some larger pieces. Scattered throughout are finished examples stitched onto various articles like linens, bags, framed pictures and labels/cards.

There are multiple themes included in the collection, broadly gathered into the chapters:

A Touch of Nostalgia
Chocolate, Tea, Coffee
Fabulous Journeys
Fashion

The entire collection runs to 192 pages, hardbound. There are multiple motifs per page and the charts have both symbol and color, making them very easy to follow.

The botanicals (example pictured on the cover) are really appealing and classy and would make wonderful hostess gifts stitched onto a wine bottle cover or napkin set.

While there are pictured examples of finished projects throughout the book, neither patterns nor instructions are included, they're just guides for further inspiration.

The photography, as always, is clear and high quality.

Five stars

This beautiful book by Véronique Enginger will delight fans of vintage advertising posters, french motifs and antique fashion designs. I was particularly taken by the trunk labels, and the tango dancers, and look forward to several cross-stitch projects to decorate project bags as sampled in “Retro Cross Stitch”.

This is a wonderful book for any cross stitcher. It has vintage clothing patterns as well as shoes, bathing suits, hats, umbrellas and so much more. A basic pattern that is then embellished with frills and size variations. Patterns are charted and easy to read. Great gift for any crafter.

I really enjoyed this compendium of patterns! As a French teacher, I can imagine stitching some little gifts for my seniors or a larger image for my class. I enjoyed seeing the combination of smaller motifs and large fully-realized frame-able pieces. The art is beautifully rendered in cross stitch, and since I personally adore the French language itself, it made me smile to see it rendered so beautifully. It makes me want to pick up my needles and stitch!

Retro Cross Stitch by Veronique Enginger is a treasure trove of patterns without the fluff. The book has page after page filled with individual patterns grouped together by common subject. The trend towards lazy days during the 1800, parasols and high button boots, tea service and time at the boardwalk or the beach are beautifully imagined. Full Disclosure: I was allowed to read a copy of this book for free as a member of NetGalley in exchange for my unbiased review. The opinions I have expressed are my own and I was not influenced to give a positive review.

This book will appeal to those cross stitchers that love retro designs. I love antique patterns and samplers, and this book hit every mark for me. There are a broad amount of categories to choose from such as people, travel, objects, clothing and places and cultures. Some of the old fashioned ladies look just like patterns I pick up from the second hand store from the actual time period. The patterns can be worked alone, as depicted in the book with some of them adorning hand towels, or bags, or together to make a sampler or frame-able art. The fact that the writing on the patterns is all French adds another level of antique charm for me, as well as reminding me of high school French. I would highly recommend this book if you like antique patterns, or want to stitch something that will look classy on your wall.

A beautiful book on cross stitch designs which can be used for small or large projects and gifts, or as a learning tool for someone staring out with cross stitch. The designs are charming and depict the retro era, and just by looking at some of the project made, will encourage trying some out on various items. They are small, therefore quick to make and do not test the patience of either a beginner or someone who just want to complete something in a short time.
I really love the layout and the examples are very inspiring.
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I enjoyed this title because each pattern features a variety of objects and motifs that can be stitched fully, or more likely, stitchers can select the parts they like, combine patterns, and isolate items for various small craft projects. There are endless possibilities with these patterns! Unlike the fairy tales and fables book, these patterns feature brighter, more eye catching colors. I really enjoy the variety of retro themes and patterns that this book holds.

This book is full of adorable retro designs, with patterns for the most amazing of them. Its a great book for instruction and pattern ideas. Highly recommended for anyone who wants some ideas, and enjoys cross stitch!