The Art of Embroidery Design: A Workshop for Developing Your Own Original Stitching

by Christi Johnson

Acclaimed embroidery designer and the best-selling author of Mystical Stitches, Christi Johnson, teaches how to create original stitch designs and expand creativity, with sketchbook and sampler exercises and inspiring examples from a wide range of embroidery artists, both historical and contemporary.

This colorful sourcebook, packed with practical technique instructions accompanied by inspiring examples from a wide range of embroidery artists, is sure to jump-start every stitching enthusiast's creativity, and build the skills for making original designs. Written for all levels of stitchers, The Art of Embroidery Design teaches the value of establishing a creative practice, with hands-on sketching and stitching exercises to help anyone build confidence in their design skills, whether or not they can draw. Author Christi Johnson breaks the design process down into approachable steps developing a vision; choosing a color palette; using variations in line weight to create dimensionality; and achieving a range of textural effects. Dozens of photos of the author's own work are accompanied by historical examples from artisans in Mexico, India, Peru, China, Nigeria, and more. Profiles of some of the most inventive contemporary embroidery artists illuminate the sources of their inspiration, and round out the rich, full offerings of this complete workshop in a book. 

 

Genres: Crafts, Nonfiction, Art

200 pages, Hardcover

Published January 21, 2025

Reviews

[Literary Redhead · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so taken with this gorgeous book that I am considering taking up embroidery -- an art my mother and grandmother loved to do. But Christi Johnson brings a whole new dimension to the art, with glorious examples that took my breath away. Will make a tremendous gift for all the embroiderers in your life! I'm also buying it for my own birthday present. Hurrah!

[Ivonne Rovira · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book provides many things in one. At the back of the book, beginning at p. 159, author Christi Jordan includes an introduction to embroidery for absolute beginners. (This isn’t the book I’d recommend to newbies, but, in fairness, Jordan does show you how to start.) The Art of Embroidery Design also lives up to its name for advanced needlewomen. For those talented crafters, Jordan gives you a step-by-step model on how to create your own patterns.

But there’s one more element: I’m an extremely mediocre embroiderer, but I enjoyed Christi Jordan’s book in the same way that I love leafing through a coffee table art book. Jordan includes lovely works of textile art from across the world and time. Gorgeous!

In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Storey Publishing in exchange for an honest review.

[Kate - soberbookbabe · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a work of art and encouragement. I loved it so much. I expected to find a how to on embroidering like the artist who wrote it, but instead it was like a master class on how to find your own inspiration and then begin to make that. I love to garden and go to my local nursery and this author has me looking and sketching the shape of different leaves and mixtures of colors. I came to this book looking for guidance on how to do big and technical embroidered artwork (and that’s definitely in there), but I fell in love with the idea of little embroidered snippets on a jacket or purse that have personal meaning to me or are just pleasing to my eye. I came to it looking for complicated and have closed the book with more knowledge and enjoyment for where I’m currently at with this art.

I recommend this book to any type of artist looking for guidance in finding your own inspirations around you.

Thank you Christi Johnson, Storey Publishing, and NetGalley for letting read the advanced copy of this book. I really enjoyed it.

[LiterallyLoriB · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic!!! I devoured this book…it felt to rich and lush. Probably one of the best I have read. My favorite chapter was three, Decoding Design…it just does a great job to keeping it simple and taking you back to the basics. I reinvigorated my creative drive!!! Going to practice now!!!

[Lisa Oldfield · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was excited to start this embroidery book as thought it would be full of patterns to try, whilst it is not this it is written as a 'workshop' and it is full of interesting ideas and theory on designing your own embroidery starting with how to create you own sketchbook and where to pull inspiration from.

It is full of brilliant, colourful photos of projects and dotted throughout are conversations with artists who use different styles of embroidery.

At the end of book are guides on where to start, plus stitches.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for my eARC

[Ankit Saxena]

Designs were good but more important were the patterns of doing it. As said in book, 'This is not a book of patterns to be replicated. This is a book that invites you to be a part of the process of image creation.'

I have seen embroideries in making on lehengas, a long decorative skirt traditionally worn by women of India and some other South-Asian countries on formal occasions.



I have also worn Kurtas (type of tunic or long, top) which is usually worn by men in India and her adjacent countries, with same culture since eras back.



Christi Johnson depicted design from all over the world. But I think, from India, she would have chose better design than some tradition patterns wearing by the Banjaras from Rajasthan's rural areas and (a nomadic group from India, a chain stitch embroidery) and some from Kutch, Gujarat where radial designed embroidery used to wear by people in which no matter in whichever way you turn the cloth to, the embroidered animals are right side up along the bottom edge. West Bengal designs were also patterned well.
The greatness and vastness speaks of itself with the fact that even the designs from Uzbekistan, Mexico and Romania are same as the ones in use from early period in India.

I liked the crouching and grid stitch. "Mining the Psyche with Valeria Duque" shows a very good innovative pattern. Also, appliqué process from Peru was also very good along with the embroidery from the Paracas culture of Peru.
Overall this is good guide on different patterns/designs from all over the world.

My NetGalley review

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing this eARC.

The Art of Embroidery Design offers an insightful workshop to help readers develop their own creative visions, as well as provides useful technique instructions and a broad swath of inspiration from other embroidery artists and historical embroidery traditions.

This is a book about embroidery, but really it's a book about creativity. While Christi Johnson offers resources on key stitches, setting up your embroidery fabric, and other essential embroidery techniques, as well as essential theories on the visual art/design process such as color and texture, the heart of this book focuses on exercising your creative muscle. The activities in this book provide a framework for readers to begin their own creative practices and really think outside the box in ways I believe can be applied to a range of creative pursuits. As someone who enjoys not only embroidery, but also knitting, crochet, watercolors, and creative writing, I felt like many of the exercises in this book were leading me toward a more holistic source of creative inspiration within myself; I was as equally excited to pick up a needle by the end of this book as I was to pick up a pen. Though I think some of the best artists in history possess a measure of inherent talent, I also think this book is an absolute testament to the idea that creativity and creative taste can be learned; it's all about building a knowledge base and establishing a practice for using that foundation to create new things, and Christi Johnson is an excellent guide for this process, especially as it applies specifically to the art of embroidery. I will definitely be revisiting this book whenever my creativity requires a bit of a guided jump start.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fantastic book! I've looked at countless embroidery books over the years, and this one is truly unique. I especially love the cultural embroidery influence. I think it would be wonderful if more books could be written like this--fun to read and beautiful pictures. This book gives you a desire to want to learn embroidery, and the pictures certainly support that motivation. Absolutely lovely!

[The Sassy Bookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review: The Art of Embroidery Design by Christi Johnson

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I just finished reading The Art of Embroidery Design: A Workshop for Developing Your Own Original Stitching by Christi Johnson, and I can't help but rave about it! As someone who has dabbled in embroidery but never really felt confident in my design skills, this book was exactly what I needed to take my stitching game to the next level.

From the get-go, Christi Johnson sets the stage for an engaging and accessible workshop experience right from the comfort of your own home. Unlike many embroidery books that merely hand you patterns to copy, this gem encourages readers to unleash their creativity. It’s truly refreshing! Johnson artfully guides you through establishing a creative practice with helpful sketching and stitching exercises that really build your confidence.

One of the things I loved most about this book is how it breaks down the design process into manageable steps. Whether you're developing your vision, choosing a color palette, or learning how to create depth with line weight variations, each aspect feels approachable and exciting. The emphasis on achieving different textural effects is particularly inspiring; I was surprised at how much variety I could create with just a few techniques!

The visuals in The Art of Embroidery Design are absolutely stunning. The pages are filled with vibrant photographs of Johnson's own work, alongside historical examples from talented artisans around the world. It’s like a visual feast that showcases the rich tapestry of embroidery traditions from Mexico to Nigeria and beyond. And let me tell you, the profiles of contemporary embroidery artists included in the book are just as inspiring—it's like having a backstage pass to the world of innovative stitching!

This book isn't just informative; it's a treasure trove for anyone interested in embroidery. The layout is beautifully designed, making it a joy to flip through, and the stitch guide is both clear and comprehensive. Each stitch is accompanied by detailed pictures that show exactly how they should look, making it an invaluable resource for both beginners and seasoned stitchers alike.

In short, The Art of Embroidery Design is so much more than just an instructional guide—it's an invitation to explore your own artistic potential. I can’t recommend it enough, especially as a thoughtful gift for all the embroidery enthusiasts in your life. If you’re looking to elevate your embroidery skills while tapping into your creativity, look no further. This book is a true jewel in the world of embroidery literature!

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️

[Cindy (BKind2Books) · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an absolute jewel for those who are interested in embroidery! As the title notes, this is about designing your own project; it is not a book of patterns.

I have done embroidery - of all types (crewel, cross stitch, hardanger, etc.) - for many years. I have adapted patterns and projects to add elements or personalize a project. But this is the first time that I've seen a book dedicated to designing your own project. The author includes some basics of stitching as an appendix: needles, thread, hoops, and a nice range of stitches from basic, like backstitches and satin stitches, to more exotic, like Roumanian and Bokhara couching stitches and Cretan stitches. The directions are clear and well illustrated and give some suggestions for how to use.

Where the book truly shines is in the illustrations of techniques and designs from around the world. The photos are detailed and many of the photos give you a look at both the front and the back of the embroidery in addition to close-up details of particular stitches. We are treated to embroidery from Guatemala, Peru, India, China, Nigeria; it is truly a gorgeous trip around the world. The author encourages stitchers to use these as a springboard and find your own style, whether it is a technique from your family ancestry or a piece of art that speaks to you. There's an introduction to a variety of design elements - color, lines, textures - that can help you find your style. I love that the author promotes experimentation and play. There are suggestions for getting out of a rut or collecting inspiration from nature or doodles or whatever images strikes your fancy.

If you like stitching, this is a book that should be in your library so that you can return again and again, for ways to develop your own personal style and expand your technique and skills.

Quote I liked:

Finding your own style is the sort of process that lasts a lifetime, but it starts by becoming aware of what lights you up.

Thank you to Net Galley and Storey Publishing for the opportunity to read this lovely book.

[Linnzy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a fabulous start for someone who is curious about embroidery. Maybe you're like me and are just dipping your toes into this creative craft or you have already started.

I would also like to pint out that it is easy to read and understand.

In anycase, Christi is not only teaching us about embroidery and how to make different stitches. She takes us on her own creative tour as of how she works out a new artwork, because yes, just as the books title says, it IS about the artwork of embroidery and the posibilities are endless.

You'll also get a dive into where and how to find inspiration, aswell as a guide about colortheory.
The book also brings up how embroidery has been done amd used in different cultures.

And of course, she speaks about differnet threads and tools to use.

I would absolutely recommend this book to someone who have an interest in creating, especially if they already have an interest in design and clothes, but you might aswell make a 'painting' from the threads.

[DustyBookSniffers - Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the moment I opened Christi Johnson's The Art of Embroidery Design, I was captivated by its beautiful designs and wealth of information.

As a crafter, I'm always eager to learn new techniques, especially in embroidery, and this book did not disappoint. The layout is visually appealing, and the stitch guide is informative and supported by clear pictures showing exactly how each stitch should look, making it an incredibly valuable resource.

Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced embroiderer looking to try something new, this book offers inspiration and guidance for developing your own unique stitching style. The step-by-step instructions make it accessible to all skill levels, and the creative designs encourage you to explore and experiment.

I highly recommend The Art of Embroidery Design to anyone interested in embroidery, whether you're just starting out or seeking something different to expand your skills.

Thank you to NetGalley and Storey Publishing for gifting me an e-book ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Jennyfer · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Art of Embroidery Design is the next book by artist Christi Johnson, featuring not just the mechanics of how to embroider, but all teh nuts and bolts to actually create your own designs from the ground up, starting with a blank sketchbook and a fear of drawing.

There are comprehensive sections of design theory, from colour and form and texture to old-school pencil and paper sketching and collaging to find designs and styles that are "you". There is a fascinating section on tradtional Indigenous embroideries from around the world, and spotlights on other artists and their design processes. As a reader, you get to create your own sampler as you work through the book, and there are projects and tutorials to get your ideas flowing.

This is NOT a project book to teach you to embroider a particular image; rather this is a reference guidebook for fibre and visual artists in all different mediums. I'll be coming back to this one again and again in my own art.

~Many thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review~

[Nae · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christi Johnson has done it again in this beautifully detailed book.

Leading on from her amazing work Mystical Stitches this new work is another great resource for stitchers new and old alike. The book looks at how to create and develop your own original designs.

Johnson takes the stitcher on a journey from starting a creative habit to a tour of embroideries from around the world. She then moves on to teaching you about line, texture and colour composition and how you can create your own images. Finally she teaches you how to find inspiration and put everything into practise to create a work of art.

The book is absolutely beautiful with stunning pictures of Johnson’s work and inspiration pieces. The text is thorough and well explained and will be an asset to stitchers looking for new and creative ways to embroider. This is definitely one I will be getting for my own collection.

Thank you to NetGalley and Storey Publishing for giving me the opportunity to review this book.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

*I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*

I really liked that this book wasn't just about giving ideas for stitches and design but also goes through the history of embroidery as an art as well as the entire process of design from embracing creativity to setting out the design and then actually stitching. There are also so many great ideas for how to combine different stitches to make elaborate designs. As somewhat of a novice in embroidery I was amazed by how designs that I always thought looked impossible were actually made up of pretty simple stitches. I will definitely refer back to this book as I work on new projects! I also think this would be a great book for high school art classrooms to assist students who want to explore more textile arts rather than drawing, painting, or ceramics.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

For needlewomen at an advanced level, The Art of Embroidery Design lives up to its name. This book offers a wide variety of offerings in one place. Christi Jordan includes a short introduction to embroidery for beginners at the back of the book. Jordan provides step-by-step instructions on how to create your own patterns. This book is definitely not for beginners. In spite of the fact that I've never embroidered before, I enjoyed browsing through the book. Jordan's work is absolutely phenomenal. With years of embroidery experience, Christi Jordan has become an embroidery expert. Her extensive knowledge and passion for the craft is evident throughout the book. She shares techniques and insights gained from her personal and professional journey. Jordan's dedication to the craft has made her a respected figure among embroidery enthusiasts.

[Sharondblk · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book doesn't focus on how to embroider (although there is plenty of information on that) it focusses on how to design, from the use of a design journal to where we can gather inspiration. I found this workshop style book very inspiring, particularly in the way it highlighted a range of designers and different embroidery styles. It is not prescriptive. the goal here is clearly to inspire, to assist and to provide confidence to the stitcher. I haven't picked up my embroidery needle since the end of the pandemic, and this book has me thinking about it. it's a beautifully illustrated and photographed volume and would be a lovely addition to any crafter's library.

I thank NetGalley and the publishers, who provided me with an e-Arc in 3exchange for an honest review.

[Anastaciaknits · Rating 4 out of 5]

Being a beginner hand embroiderer, I was excited to see this book and read it for myself. I was inspired by the bright, clear photographs and colorful project ideas contained within. There’s some great info on how to create your own sampler, so much better and more creative than buying an established kit. There’s a great section and color theory and planning your own color palette, something I’m familiar with but always appreciate a primer of. There’s lovely info on how to incorporate embroidery into your every day world.

All in all this book will help teach you how to create unique objects, as different and special as you are.

[iamacraftymama · Rating 5 out of 5]

Firstly, this book is not a book with designs to embroider. Should you get this? Absolutely. Books like this remind us to enjoy the process of craft. The photographs not only inspire but give culture connections to embroidery design. I particularly enjoyed the section referencing colour theory and the concept of a colour globe. This book encourages a stitcher to see inspiration in the world around us. To create a journal to practice and experiment with stitches.
Perfect gift for anyone who enjoys needlework.

This book was provided for review by the publisher.
My comments are reflecive of my honest opinions of this book.

[MC · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 / 5.0

Rounded up to 5 stars because this book is more of a workbook than a project tutorial. I was expecting the how-to and was happy to discover the exploration in creativity, which prompted me to have ideas of my own rather then just instructions on how to reproduce select projects.

This is not for an entry level stitcher, they probably will find this overwhelming, or maybe not... maybe asking the reader to think outside of the box from the very get go is exactly what creatives need.

Thank you to the author for writing this, the publisher and NetGalley for giving me access to the eARC, and the tech editor for double checking it.

[Hannah Nguyen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is written like the equivelant of attending a workshop and is intended to help you get started with (and feel less intimidated by) creating your own embroidery designs. It takes you through some of the basic building blocks of art (color theory, composition, shape, etc.) and shows you how these principles can be translated into stitches. There is a fairly comprehensive gallery of stitches that comes in handy and helps you consider texture and how different stitches will affect your designs. Overall, this book is a great resource for anyone trying to venture into stitching without a premade pattern.

[Sydne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christi Johnson is like that one art teacher you had growing up who encourages and finds creativity in everyone. Her books are like a cozy, colorful library of creativity that you want to just climb inside and stay forever. From picking a sketchbook to write down your ideas to overcoming perfectionism, The Art of Embroidery Design is your opportunity to learn more about who you are as a creative person and then create your individual style. There's no judgement here, just encouragement, new ways of thinking, and gorgeously colorful pages of inspiration.
Arc provided by netgalley

[Gabi · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.*

Johnson has created an absolutely beautiful book here. It has a variety of examples from different cultures and artists to show case different forms of embroidery and design. The author offers up tips and tricks for designing and practising your own embroidery art. Perhaps not a super beginner friendly book, as it could be a little overwhelming to be given such complete free rein on the design of our work.
And honestly, just a visually stunning book to flip through.

[Distracted_Magpie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Besides being an avid reader, I am an avid crafter. I am no expert at embroidery, but I do have a love for it.

This book is not just your average, everyday embroidery tutorial book. This is an all encompassing, gorgeous book that takes you from tradition and symbolism, to texture color and composition, and stitches and techniques. That is not even all that is covered! The photos are so gorgeous, even if you never picked up a needle and thread, you would fully enjoy just perusing the book. I am learning so much and I can not recommend this book enough!

[Danielle Mccoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this eBook from netGalley for a honest review.

This book is more advance embroidery design since it's more about coming up with the designs and taking inspiration than making something from a pattern. I think it is brilliant in how it asks writing and creative prompts for you to create something uniquely yours. The items in this book are also big projects which are inspirational, beautiful and awesome but I think you can also find smaller ways to use this book. All in all a great source for the creative embroidery process.

[Erika P. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Storey Publishing for an advance copy of this book.

As someone who dabbles in embroidery, I have really enjoyed this book! I normally follow patterns, so this book was a refreshing opportunity to embrace creativity in my part-time hobby. I really found that this book did a wonderful job of including practical tips and new ways to approach foundational embroidery skills, while encouraging the reader to trust their sense of creativity.

Highly recommend this book for any level of embroiderer.

[Reading Earful · Rating 5 out of 5]

As an intermediary embroiderer, I loved this book. I've pre-ordered it to add to my library. The pictures were beautiful and inspiring. I appreciated that Johnson is teaching you how to tap into your own creativity, not just copy a pattern. I struggle in this area and look forward to utilizing her workshops to improve my skills. Great stitch references at the back and material/tools suggestions. Highly recommend for any fabric artist who wants to learn how to hone their creativity.

Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[C K · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have a collection of embroidery books, but The Art of Embroidery has quickly become my absolute favorite. This book is nothing short of amazing. It’s both inspiring and approachable, making it perfect for beginners and experienced embroiderers alike. The projects are beautifully unique yet completely achievable, giving you the confidence to explore your own creativity. I love how it seamlessly blends design principles with practical techniques, sparking endless possibilities.

Thank you to Net Galley and Storey Publishing for the opportunity to read this lovely book.

[Macaela · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun book to help you get into embroidery. The author, Christi Johnson, walks us through the basics in the book. She recommends what we need to get started including a sketch book for working through your own designs. Throughout the each chapter we’re given introductions to other embroiderers. We’re also guided through making our own stitch sampler. At the end we have the basics and the different type of stitches. I had no idea there were so many. A beautiful book.

Thanks to NetGalley and Storey Publishing for the advanced copy.

[Lynn DiFerdinando]

Beautiful book. Lots of detail color photos of embroidery from around the world, examining what types of simple stitches they use, which encourages the reader to go Oh! Then I COULD do that! And then continues with thoughts and ideas that get your brain churning and designing. I especially like the artist spotlights.

Read this while sitting at the library so didn’t have the chance to do any of the sampler development “To-Do” items but they all look interesting and helpful

No read date to avoid screwing with my year total