The Complete Encyclopedia of Needlework contains over 250 alphabetical entries and 1,000 illustrations, with easy-to-follow diagrams showing how to complete the projects.
It is important to note that this is a book of great historical significance, and is not a go-to book for someone who is new to the craft of needlework. Newbies would be confused by all of the old techniques, many of which are no longer commonly used. But anyone who is a fan of needlework and especially those who are interested in the history of needlework would want this in their library. Theresa De Dillmont was a pioneer of techniques and an expert in all fields, and had this book never been written (or her school opened), we would not have such a fun and popular hobby today. The photos/engravings in this book are simply stunning.
I have two copies of Complete Encyclopedia of Needle-works. One copy was purchased in the 1970 in a used book store. I recently purchased the updated version from 1987 at a quilt show sale table. Although, not all inclusive of all needlework techniques this book tries to include every one of them.
The text is a little dry but the illustrations are sufficient enough to allow a person to learn how to do some of the techniques. I have used many of them over the years. Several detailed patterns are included.
Techniques in the book:
Tatting Knitting Crochet Multiple Embroidery Techniques Netting Macrame Open work Needle made laces
If I come across another copy of this book I will probably buy it ... I need a copy for the cabin up north.
This is a *must-have* book for any stitcher. It is a reprint of the original Therese de Dillmont book of the early 1900's. Just about every kind of needlework is covered - embroidery, sewing, darning, smocking, cutwork, drawn thread, knitting, crochet, tapestry, lace-making, and many more. Nearly 800 pages. It's all b&w but clear and easy to follow. For those of you who appreciate traditional needlework and antique patterns/designs, this should be added to your library. (Free versions are available online but it's nice to have a handy version you can pick up anytime and it's usually just a few dollars.)
When I came across this in a bookstore in Lake Tahoe, I jumped at the chance to purchase it. I've been reading excerpts from it and seen it used in countless needlework magazines. This is my go to book for any questions about needlework, common or obscure. I recently pulled it for instructions on repairing a knitted item. This edition comes with a colourwheel to plan needlework projects. Some of the terms have changed (netting is called filet lace, draw thread work is embroidered lace) but the language and illustrations are clear enough for modern use.
Judging by the stains on this little book, I have had it forever. It really is the only needlework reference one could ever need. Ninety percent of the contents is way beyond my skill level, but I can still spend hours admiring the illustrations. It is a must-have for anyone interested in needlework arts.
This is a great book to remind us that hand and needlework was once a part of everyday life and in today's "buy cheap and quick" we are looking these beautiful talents and the imagination that brought it to us in the first place
After over a century, this tome is still the über-reference for needlework technique. Anyone who does any sort of sewing or needlework NEEDS this book!