I bought this based on the previous reviews. Very disapointing. I have many other embroidery books that are far better. Helen Stevens does pretty work, but a majority of the stitches are straight stitches (satin stitch) and only the thread choice seems to make her work shine. Do yourself a favor...try to get an Erica Wilson book...you can still get some used, or borrow from the library. Or look around at other embroidery books/authors. This one is very limited.