Embroidery is imaginative and individual, and adds grace, elegance, and style to clothes, bedcovers, furnishings, and wall hangings. Now you can use your imagination and make any piece uniquely yours with the 263 stitches presented in this book. A photograph of each stitch, along with a description of its main uses, easy-to-follow instructions, clear diagrams, plus explanations and tips, will help you achieve the best results. This handy guide is divided into five main chapters, Starting to Embroider deals with all the basics to get you started: the fabrics, threads, and needles; how to follow a pattern; and techniques, such as beginning and ending your threads. The next three chapters cover the main types of embroidery. Embroidery on Fabric covers all surfaces and free-style embroidery, including counted cross-stitch and beadwork. Smocking covers the basics and most commonly used smocking stitches. Embroidery on Canvas explains how to work on canvas and canvas stitches. The final chapter includes suggestions for displaying your work and caring for it so that it will last for many years. With Complete Guide to Embroidery Stitches beginners can start with the basics, and experienced stitchers can browse through the amazing selection of stitches for pleasure and inspiration. Happy Stitching