After many years away from cross stitching, I returned to needlework wanting to learn new embroidery stitches and methods of execution. This book combines execution techniques, diagrams in great detail, color pictures, ideas and patterns. Lay language and commond names as well as the proper names of stitches are included making this as easy as a garden book. I really enjoyed it and recommend it to anyone looking for additional stitches to add to their repertoire. Beginner to advanced will like this book. Most bang for your buck too. I bought a used addition and am very happy with it.