An essay by May Morris on the techniques and principles of embroidery, reprinted from a collection of arts and crafts essays. It surveys the main stitches and methods: chain stitch, tapestry stitch, appliqué, couching, patchwork, darning and running. It then discusses design, colour, materials and the shortcomings of modern needlework, with remarks on ecclesiastical embroidery and examples from Persian, Italian, Cretan and Turkish work.