Embroidery or the Craft of the Needle is a practical, design‑driven guide to needlework with a rich historical perspective.
It blends hands‑on instruction with a view of how embroidery has shaped and reflected culture from medieval to modern times.
This edition emphasizes the craft’s practical side: from planning and design to selecting materials and mastering stitches. It features clear, step‑by‑step guidance, plus a wealth of diagrams and working examples drawn from historical and contemporary pieces. You’ll find notes on tools, techniques, and how to adapt patterns for daily use, home décor, and ceremonial garments.
What you’ll experience
- Visual learning with 86 illustrations and practical plates showing stitches, textures, and finish
- Hands‑on guidance on design choice, material selection, and execution
- A focused look at stitches, padding, couching, tambour work, purl, and related methods
- Context on embroidery’s history, symbolism, and its modern revival at leading needlework schools
Ideal for hobbyists, students, and readers seeking a solid, design‑conscious approach to embroidery that honors tradition while supporting practical, everyday use.