Erica Wilson, whose name is so closely associated with the revival of crewel embroidery, is equally proficient in all other types of needlework. This book is an "everything you want to know about embroidery" encyclopedia. Showing how hundreds of complicated stitches really stem from seven basic ones, Erica illustrates their varied development in seven completely different types of embroidery. Full directions, with stitch diagrams, are given in each chapter with many illustrations of old and contemporary examples. Design, color, and the choice of stitches are fully discussed.
I have the 1973 edition bought it when it hit the shelves, with it I taught myself the fine art of Embroidery, this book and her Crewel Embroidery books are two must haves on my stitchery shelf.