Moyra McNeill (1927–2011)

Not a pattern book, but very good instructions for a wide variety of styles of Drawn thread work. The chapter on experimental work is very good. I would have liked to see some of the pictures in colour. That lack is the strongest sign that this is a reprint, and not a new book.

The design section of this book was the first one to show me clearly how to construct a design incorporating various embroidery stitches. It leaves out all the complications of more art oriented books and just gives you a simple technique that will show off your stitching. The rest of the book is a stitching guide and finishing instructions, which are good, but you can also get elsewhere.

The book contains lovely pictures and paintings of the English well-to-do of the sixteenth century. I love the collection of patterns. It makes your fingers itch to create your own.

old now but cute baby's jacket, some cushions