Using all the traditional shapes and symbols of Christmas - hearts, stars, snowflakes and birds - this book aims to show the basic needle skills required to complete the projects in this collection, although a few projects do involve advanced techniques such as free machine embroidery. Patchwork, crochet, counted thread and soft sculpture are just a few of the needlecrafts included. The materials used are as varied as the techniques and include silk and velvet, felt and hessian, string and gold thread. Among the projects outlined are wallhangings, tree decorations, bird trees and Christmas stockings.