Embroidery: A Complete Course in Embroidery Design and Technique
Brown, Pauline
Mallard Press, New York, 1986
This is an excellent book to learn how to read a chart, to learn basic stitches, to learn how to determine the order in which to stitch a pattern, to learn finishing for projects, and to get a feel for the interplay between threads and the materials to which they are applied. SB
Beginner

Embroidered Textiles: Traditional Patterns from Five Continents with a Worldwide Guide to Identification
Paine, Sheila
Thames and Hudson, London, 1990
ISBN# 0-500-27823-7
Good overview to see what motifs were used where and when. Little of the book covers pre-1600 items. SB
Beginner

Design for Embroidery from Traditional English Sources
Howard, Constance
B.T. Batsford Ltd., London, 1956
ISBN# 0 7134 6299 X
Excellent book for introducing the beginning stitcher to placing stitches in context. Significant sections of the book detail early English and 16th C. embroidery. Well worth the money. SB
Beginner

Complete Guide to Needlework: Techniques and Materials
Gostelow, Mary
Chartwell Books, Inc., Secaucus NJ, 1982
ISBN# 089009 -597-3
Fantastic overview of most of the techniques listed in our Guild’s apprenticeship program including each technique’s historical background, stitches, threads, and fabrics to use. Nice color and B&W photos and instructional diagrams. IB
Beginner

Cento Punti Ricamo
Mani Di Fata, ed
I Lavori Femmininili Di Mani di Fata, Milan,
An Italian pamphlet with how-to and simple designs of assisi, smocking, trapunto, florentine stitch, surface embroidery, pulled work, etc. SB
Beginner