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Needlepoint: A Modern Stitch Directory: Over 100 creative stitches and techniques for tapestry embroidery

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The ultimate resource for needlepoint, canvaswork and tapestry embroidery, packed with over 100 decorative stitches and techniques.


You may have tried tent stitch and cross stitch and you’ve probably seen some Bargello popping up in craft magazines, but did you know that these are only a couple of the needlepoint stitches out there? This essential guide to needlepoint will allow you to bring far greater texture and interest to your stitching, with expert guidance on how to embroider the stitches and how to choose the best stitches for your designs.


Always worked on an open-weave, grid-like canvas, even needlepoint’s most decorative stitches are surprisingly easy. In this step-by-step guide, packed full of handy how-to illustrations, beginners and expert stitchers alike will feel confident enough to give every stitch a go. Alongside the stitch directory, you’ll find all the information you need on materials and equipment, and 10 bite-sized projects with full-colour charts to show off your new stitching superpowers.


Author Emma Homent has been pioneering the rediscovery of all the incredible stitches in her popular #stitchmondays posts on Instagram. In this book, Emma shares her passion for this traditional craft in a fresh and contemporary way, with a desirable modern aesthetic for a new generation of needlepointers.


You'll learn about the tools and materials needed, how to organise threads, and how to frame up your canvas for stitching. Over 100 stitches are demonstrated with both photos and diagrams, with 10 easy and accessible projects to help ease you into trying out some of the fancier stitches - including a glasses case, plant hanger, accessories, gifts and more. Emma also shares her guidance on what stitches are best for backgrounds, for filling large areas more quickly, and which are best for adding structure and interest.


Whether you are a keen embroiderer or an absolute beginner, this invaluable guide is your go-to resource for everything needlepoint.

369 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 13, 2022

205 people are currently reading
64 people want to read

About the author

Emma Homent

6 books

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5 stars
64 (66%)
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22 (22%)
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
Profile Image for Kateryna.
679 reviews
November 24, 2024
Having full color photos of the stitches, right alongside the stitch diagrams is incredibly helpful for the way I learn. Can’t wait for the next volume to come out.
Profile Image for Jacqueline Nyathi.
904 reviews
February 27, 2023
Enjoyed this introduction to the craft, and keen to try my hand at it. Techniques for the various stitches are laid out clearly, with images, making it easy for a beginner to learn.

Thank you to Edelweiss and to David and Charles publishing for access.
299 reviews6 followers
September 5, 2024
Great stitch directory

I was reminded of stitches I had forgotten as well as learning a lot of new stitches. The illustrations of the stitches are excellent and very helpful.
Profile Image for Laura.
383 reviews1 follower
January 15, 2025
"Needlepoint: A Modern Stitch Directory" is an incredible resource for anyone interested in needlepoint, from beginners to advanced stitchers. Emma Homent's fresh and contemporary approach makes this traditional craft feel modern and exciting. The book is packed with over 100 stitches, clear instructions, and inspiring projects that are both accessible and creative. The design is stunning, and the guidance is practical, making it impossible not to dive into stitching right away. A truly inspirational guide!
Profile Image for Cory Bakke.
9 reviews7 followers
November 9, 2025
read like a blog post

This book read like a blog post. I was expecting a reference book. It lacked detail and depth. It is not a directory, as the title suggests. I was disappointed.
Profile Image for Rhonda Fonicello.
407 reviews3 followers
January 23, 2024
It was okay. Too many kooky stitches and very "80s" in the projects. Maybe that's a thing again now. I'm not into it.
2 reviews
August 6, 2025
Awesome book

I like the instructions, both visual and written out. The images are clear and easy to decipher. Overall, an information treasure trove!
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews

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