Learn the basics of embroidery and all the stitches and techniques you'll need. Then practice, explore, and experiment to master this ancient art and make it your own.

Use this timeless and comprehensive guide to seek solutions to many of the most common embroidery issues. Learn how to get started and know what embroidery materials and threads to use, what stitches are best, and what patterns you should follow. In this encyclopedic work, expert embroiderer and teacher Martine Biessy shares traditional needle embroidery techniques that were formerly passed down orally from generation to generation.

Whether you are taking your first steps as an embroiderer or want to expand your knowledge or discover new techniques, this comprehensive volume guides you step by step. You'll get

• 290 stitches and techniques, classified by 15 major families;
• 90 projects to make with the stitches you master;
• detailed instructions and precise diagrams;
• information on the threads, tools, and equipment you'll need for proper embroidery techniques; and
• special sections on smocking, embroidering on canvas and wool, using embellishments like beads and ribbons, and embroidering text and numbers.

Embroiderers of every skill level will treasure this invaluable resource and will keep it at hand permanently for easy reference.