The distinguished reputation and specialist knowledge of the Royal School of Needlework are combined in this colourful and inspirational introduction to the most popular hand embroidery techniques. A detailed introductory section provides all the practical information needed for setting up and finishing pieces of embroidery, selecting your design, fabric and treads and preparing and framing up for working. The next four chapters examine the popular techniques of silk shading, gold work, crewelwork and black work, all introduced with a historical overview and a comprehensive stitch glossary. Each stitch technique features four exquisitely worked embroidery projects with step-by-step instructions and photographs explaining their development and stitching. The 16 projects include a Jacobean leaf sampler in crewel work, an Iris in blackwork, a tree bark design in silk shading and a sampler in goldwork. 'Royal School of Needlework: Embroidery Techniques' is an essential guide to stitching for embroiderers - it is a valuable source of reference and a beautiful book for the needlecrafter's library.