Have You Read It: Embroidery Encyclopedia

Embroidery Encylopedia: Stitches and Techniques for Every Embroiderer is a hefty and in-depth embroidery book by French artist Martine Biessy. This book was generously shared with my Schiffer Publishing to review.

Embroidery Encyclopedia by Martine Biessy

What is Embroidery Encyclopedia?

Biessy's Embroidery Encyclopedia features a collection of traditional needlework techniques commonly used in France. Her hefty tomb (415 pages to be exact) is packed full with 290 embroidery stitches, 15 stitch families, hundreds of stitch and technique diagrams, and 90 hands on projects.

Why You'll Enjoy Embroidery Encyclopedia

The Embroidery Encyclopedia is a great resource for anyone starting out with hand embroidery. Even if you're not new to embroidery, this is a wonderful reference book, especially for those wanting to learn some of the historical context behind the stitches. Along with reference resources, the book includes projects for timeless garments and accessories. You'll be able to try your hand at beginner embroidery stitches, use ribbons, learn beading techniques, and even try goldwork! There's a little bit of everything.

Embroidery Encyclopedia captures the breadth and timelessness of hand stitching. Many of the projects in this book remind me of smocked dresses and designs my mom made for me as a child. I also enjoyed the updated projects that used traditional techniques, bringing them into the current age of stitching.

While Biessy's book doesn't push any boundaries and isn't groundbreaking, it is a great resource for Parisian stitching.

"This intergenerational family transmission is a treasure that I wish to perpetuate, since the know-how of embroiderers (previously handed down orally from generation to generation) virtually disappeared in the last century." - Martine Biessy

Where You Can Order Embroidery Encyclopedia

Embroidery Encyclopedia can be found at most major book stores and on Amazon (affiliate link). If your bookstore doesn't have Embroidery Encyclopedia in stock, you can have them order it for you or request a copy at your local library.

***Thanks for reviewing my recommendation. This post contains affiliate links. Should you purchase an item listed, I may receive a small portion of the sale.***