A new and up-to-date edition of the immensely successful stitch bible, by bestselling needlework designer and author Betty Barnden. Trends in embroidery styles come and go, but the basic stitches and techniques remain the same. In this essential directory, hand sewers will have a collection of over 200 stitches at their fingertips – from basic chain worked into fabric through to Florentine work on a canvas. Each one is explained with written step-by-step instructions and how-to techniques to get you started, and are accompanied by clear artwork and a photo of the finished stitch. Follow the diagrams and instructions in this beautifully illustrated and jam-packed book to discover the wonderful variety of effects that can be created with just a needle and thread, and discover – or rediscover – the sensuous, tactile, wearable art of embroidery.

Over 200 crochet stitches are explained in full, each accompanied by a photographed sample, row-by-row instructions, and easy-to-follow symbol charts. Additional chapters on basic techniques and materials, a stitch selector and a how-to-use section provide clear guidance for beginners and experts alike.