If you ever wanted to learn how to embroider, you've come to the right place. This section abounds with articles on basic stitches and techniques, plus tips on materials and how to apply different techniques to different types of fabrics. Another excellent resource is Sophia Caulfeild's marvelous Dictionary of Needlework, which you can still get today.

Instructions in Embroidery, by Ann S. Stephens (Peterson's, 1856)

Our Dictionary of Needlework: Muslin Embroidery, by Mrs. Jane Weaver (Peterson's, 1858)

Our Dictionary of Needlework: Silks & Wools, by Mrs. Jane Weaver (Peterson's, 1858)

Our Dictionary of Needlework: Conclusion (Materials), by Mrs. Jane Weaver (Peterson's, 1858)

Button-Hole and Satin Stitch (Girl's Own Paper, 1881)

Designing for Embroidery, by Fred Miller (Girl's Own Paper, 1881)

Beautiful embroidery patterns based on plants and flowers.

A Grammar of Embroidery, by Fred Miller (Girl's Own Paper, 1881)

Knotting, by B.C. Saward (Girl's Own Paper, 1883)

A Lesson in Design, by Fred Miller (Girl's Own Paper, 1885)

Learn how to turn objects from nature - plants, leaves, flowers - into elegant designs for embroidery and other crafts.

Decorative Embroidery, by Lida and M.J. Clarkson (Ingalls' Home Magazine, 1888)

A variety of embroidery stitches and techniques, including couching, clover stitch, Kensington stitch, knot stitches, trellis stitch, and satin stitch.

Button-Hole Stitch, and Some of Its Uses in Decorative Embroidery, by Ellen Galusha Smith (Ingalls' Home Magazine, 1889)

Raveled Edges and Dropped Stitches (Needle & Brush, 1889)

How to repair these problems in canvas tapestry.

On Colouring and Materials for Embroideries (Cassell's Family Magazine, 1891)

Needlework for Busy Fingers, by Eleanor Archer (Cassell's Family Magazine, 1891)

Some Embroidery Stitches, by Mrs. J.H. Nicolson Shearman (Girl's Own Paper, 1891)

Basic stitches for beautiful creations.

Flannel Tapestry (Girl's Own Paper, 1894)

This article includes instructions for a number of basic embroidery stitches.

Nine Useful Stitches, by Josepha Crane (Girl's Own Paper, 1896)

See also:

• Embroidery Projects

• Embroidery Styles

• Fabric Painting

• Quilting

• Mixed Crafts & Crafts Columns