Mary Thomas's Dictionary of Embroidery Stitches

by Jan Eaton

This practical dictionary of embroidery stitches, which was originally published in 1934, has now been updated and illustrated. It shows details of 400 stitches - the working method, the effective use of the stitch and the suitable threads and materials. Photographs of historic embroideries from Europe, America and the Orient illustrate how the stitches can be used.

Genres: Crafts, Reference, Nonfiction, Art, Sewing

208 pages, Hardcover

First published November 1, 1934

About the author

JAN EATON is known internationally for her specialty in needlecraft and textile designs. Since finishing her training at Goldsmiths College in London, Jan has worked as a freelance designer showcasing her embroidery, crochet, knitting, and textile painting designs in various UK and European magazines. Past works include the new edition of Mary Thomas's Dictionary of Embroidery Stitches, Country Crochet and Knitted Lace, and 200 Crochet Blocks for Blankets, Throws, and Afghans. (ref: http://us.macmillan.com/author/janeaton)

Reviews

[Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

A comprehensive book with lots of background info on each stitch, where to use it and best materials to use for the stitch. Great tips and tricks as well. The only drawback is the instructions/diagrams on how to complete specific stitches are sometimes lacking in clarity. The history alone attached to this book makes it a must read for embroidery enthusiasts.

[Kirsty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent resource, though I would not recommend it for complete beginners, as the instructions are often sparse.

[Elisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bought this book over twenty years ago and it is still the best "how to" book for hand embroidery that I have ever seen. There are plenty of other resources for inspiration or advanced embroidery but there are very few that illustrate stitches well for beginners. Even though I embroider irregularly, I am always able to review the stitches in this book and hit the ground running. I have used it innumerable times.

[Francesca Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you have an interest in embroidery, this is the number one book (and edition!) that you need. The images are attractive, as well as easy to understand and copy. This is easily my favorite sewing book.

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely reference book and full of inspired ideas.

[Liz Thompson · Rating 2 out of 5]

Less than inspiring.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am working on a few vintage embroidery pieces that I inherited from my grandma's unfinished stash. I was specifically looking for information on edging stitches and cut work. This book has given me several great ideas on how to proceed with these projects.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I never knew that there was so many different embroidery stitches. First published in 1936 this is a timeless treasure to add to your needlework bookshelves to refer to endlessly. It shows the stitch with a picture of it, then a detailed description of how to do the stitch. I will be looking at this book many times.

[Mrs. · Rating 4 out of 5]

A treasure trove of embroidery stitches accompanied by full color photos and drawings. If you are experienced, I would rate this a 5; for a beginner like me, it's a 4 because I do not yet have the foundation to understand the rather complicated directions.

[Lindsay · Rating 4 out of 5]

A clear book covering an enormous range of embroidery stitches. The pictures and diagrams are clear and overall it's a very inspiring book.

[Tashia · Rating 4 out of 5]

pretty good descriptions of embroidery stitches, but the actual stitches aren't always labeled that well...

[Archana]

a book with information on almost all stitches used these days. includes even pictures.

[Pamela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulous book a classic for a good reason. excellent guide to all forms of embroidery stitches

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full of great embroidery stitches, and excellent instructions!