This embroidered border was inspired by the painted border of a letter written by Lady Anne Clifford to her father in 1598 the time of Elizabeth I and Shakespeare. Worked on ivory silk satin, in stumpwork and surface embroidery, this design features fourteen assorted flowers and fruits popular at the time, including the Apothecary rose, Sweet briar and Heartsease, Barberries, Bellflower, Borage and Periwinkle, Cornflower, Gillyflower and Knapweed, and Grapes, Plums, Redcurrants and Strawberries. As in the original letter, the panel is outlined with pairs of fine red lines these have been worked in back stitch. This border may be used to surround a mirror, or to enclose a special photograph, a monogram, a precious memento, or perhaps a tiny stumpwork figure.

This is a treasure trove of ideas and inspiration for embroiderers and lovers of Japanese culture alike. Follow the amazing designs of world renowned embroidery artist Jane Nicholas in this stunning book. Learn how to create your own sumptuous embroidered designs based on the rich history of Japanese stitching techniques and styles. Jane Nicholas is one of the world's leading embroiderers, specializing in Stumpwork. Her exquisite embroideries in Goldwork and Stumpwork are inspired by Japanese family crests, a subject that has fascinated her for many years. In this book, Jane has selected 12 designs and interpreted them in a variety of ways using combinations of goldwork and raised and surface stitching. Measuring just 4in (10cm) square, each is worked on an assortment of silk Japanese kimono fabrics, and is accompanied by detailed instructions, a stitch diagram, and the outline for the design. At the start of the book there is a fascinating history of Japanese family crests, followed by a stitch directory and a comprehensive techniques section covering the essential methods of working Stumpwork and Goldwork. Illustrated throughout with sumptuous photography and informative diagrams This is a treasure trove of ideas and inspiration for embroiderers and lovers of Japanese culture alike.

Reprint of the original, first published in 1882.

Based on her own experience with long and short stitch shading, gained through trial and error over the years, the author provides a greater awareness of how colour affects our embroidery, and what brings it to life.