Book Review by Heather
9/10 Sneks of Approval 
Title: Feminist Cross-Stitch
Author: Stephanie Rohr
General Notes: In the wake of the recent Supreme Asshats Court Ruling, overturning Roe v. Wade, we thought it would be apt to have a review of some feminist craft books. In light of the ruling, the Gorgons have been stitching up some of the messages as a way to cope, but also, leaving the finished pieces in public places to stir conversation and show people who are capable of getting pregnant that they are not alone. Our Instagram @knot_sew_crafty_gorgons will be featuring some of these hidden stitches and we would love to see others join the effort and placing messages of their own throughout the US.
- Aesthetics The cover of the book is very eye-catching and tells you what you’re goihng to be getting with the featured project “A woman’s place is in the Revolution.” The projects throughout the book are attractive in their simplicity, taking over the floral designs one would expect on samplers from Little House on the Prairie and slamming them around powerful statements. The largest piece is the pattern on Rosie the Riveter and is stunning in its complexities, with 55 thread colors used. Patterns are gorgeous and could be used as framed projects, tea towels, or pretty much anywhere else you want to show them off. The beautiful floral and geometric borders, when juxtaposed with some of the jarring and bold statements lead to at least a smirk by any feminist.
- Accessibility The text throughout the book is fairly large and uncluttered. The patterns are also enlarged for ease of reference. The top right corner of the project page indicates level of complexity with one “X” indicating for beginners and four “X” indicating for advanced stitchers
- Technical Skills Presentation Rohr’s brilliant design of this book breaks down the cross-stitch basics simply, including being specific about which size needle to use for which count Aida- something many texts often leave vague. The step-out diagrams of each stitch are clear and beginner friendly. One aspect that sets Rohr’s text apart is her page on Cross-Stitch Troubleshooting. Her problems and solutions suggested are ones commonly posted about on Facebook stitching groups. This book also includes a reference for finishing the piece with framing and washing and ironing instructions. Finally, my favorite aspect of this is how Rohr indicates the size of hoop and the relevant Aida count above each pattern, making it incredibly easy to pair.
- Cultural Context As stated above, Rohr’s book is incredibly relevant with the recent Supreme Court ruling. Rohr does include patterns for the LGBTQIA+ community, and some patterns, such as the RESIST pattern, are not necessarily specific to women. The patterns are very focused on “women” but there is some inter-sectional presentation, including patterns poking fun at Donald Trump and his “Bad Hombres” bullshit. The patterns also include an homage to moment Maxine Waters declared she was “Reclaiming My Time.”
- Overall Rating This is a book I have stitched several patterns from for my public art outreach (leaving the pieces in public spaces for strangers to find). The patterns, in general, work up quickly and are very attractive. Honestly, this book would be a great gift for any feminist in your life or any cross-stitcher. My favorite pattern, which I have yet to stitch up, is the “ Tools of the Revolution” pattern, featuring craft supplies. I would love to see more advocacy themed patterns come out from Rohr, especially as our politicians continue to create fodder that is perfect for subversive stitching.