Library Journal – Jan 15, 2025
The Royal School of Needlework (RSN), founded in 1872, has supported British embroiderers for centuries. Some of its craftspeople have worked on the coronation regalia of Britain’s kings and queens and created iconic publications such as 2018’s Book of Embroidery. The RSN also maintains a digital stitch bank, an archive of stitches and their history dedicated to documenting and preserving the artistic record. This authoritative book contains 200 of these stitches that are common across many cultures. Divided into seven color-coded chapters arranged by usage, the stitches fall into categories such as outlining, filling, shading, edging, and embellishing. Each stitch is named following the most common terminology in Britain and is introduced with a brief techniques list and background information. Diagrams form the heart of the book and provide step-by-step instructions and close-up photos of each stitch. Directions are sufficient for most embroiderers, although a basic skill level is assumed. The stitch range should support beginners to advanced experts. Plentiful illustrations of textiles employing many of the stitches round out the work.
VERDICT Embroiderers will be happy to have this high-quality reference guide.
Craft Focus – Jan 2025
This book aims to empower every embroiderer to create contemporary works informed and supported by centuries of experience. We say: This sumptuous book also showcases historical
pieces from the RSN’s unparalleled Collection and Archive, with stunning photography and expert insight, bringing the skills, work and experience of the past to life.
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