An amazing range of textures and effects can be produced through the creative use of stitches. The author begins by analysing in detail the effects that can be achieved by using different background fabrics, threads and needles and moves on to explore all the possibilities offered by a range of 40 different stitches. She asks questions such as 'Can the stitch be worked in circles?', 'Can it be worked upside down?' and illustrates some possible answers. She encourages the embroiderer to go beyond the 'correct' or conventional method of working, towards new approaches. There is also a valuable section on design which, by the use of sketches and photographs, introduces the principles of observing people, buildings, trees, flowers and landscapes and translating them into designs suitable for embroidery.