Inspirations Magazine publishes the books in this series and their luscious style is evident here. Small pictures from historical sources dot the pages, and there are quotations to enjoy as well. In fact, this is a lovely book to look at so it is easy to be seduced into making something in here, purely because it will be a joy to work and look at forever afterwards. Lifelike birds and animals, fruit and flowers (much with an inevitable Australian slant) are well explained along with the stunning illustrations, but this is not a book for those who have never picked up a needle before. One project is explained in great detail with lots of staged photos, but most are explained in words rather than pictures and more suited to practiced embroiderers. The patterns at the back are helpful, showing the outlines you transfer and line drawings with the stitches and their directions. If you are not a beginner and want to create a masterpiece that could become an heirloom, this is surely the book for you.

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