Floral Embroidery

Embroidery shop owner Sturmer combines her “passion for embroidery, flowers, and Shakespeare” in this beautiful and accessible beginner’s guide to embroidery. Each chapter begins with a quote from the Bard and contains vibrant photos. Beginners will appreciate the chapter titled “The Basics,” which offers a list of materials and instructions for the fundamental stitches used in the projects. Sturmer then presents 10 designs, progressing from “Simple Leaves and Stems,” which uses “the easiest of stitches,” to the intricate “Spooky Bouquet,” which is made up of multiple colors and stitches. The patterns are organized so as to build upon skills and gradually add new ones, culminating in a final chapter that teaches readers how to design their own floral patterns. This colorful, thoughtfully arranged guide is an excellent place for aspiring embroidery artists to start. (Nov.)