When I first found it, this book was a complete surprise to me, I had no idea it even existed. I had not previously seen any reference to it, anywhere.

This book is very rare.

Here something else I did not know, Elsa William used to have a syndicated newspaper column. In her introduction, Mrs. Williams says that "the pages for this book are my selections from the syndicated columns I have written during the past several years"

This book is, as the dust jacket flaps claim "a treasure trove of knowledge and ideas about everything and anything that can be done with a needle. Elsa Williams discusses the nature of Embroidery and Canvas Work as well as many variations on these basic techniques".

BTW, she means Needlepoint when she refers to Canvas Work.

This book contains 102 chapters, I am not sure what else to call them. Each has a different topic, tip, instructions or stitches. Most are one page.

The contents seem comprehensive, more then comprehensive. So much of Mrs Williams vast needlework knowledge is here.

As an example, Chapter 27, on page 27 is about Signing Your Work.

The author feels strongly that embroidered (or needlepointed) pictures should be signed by the person who worked it. She also confesses that sometimes she gets so carried away with a design she has created she forgets to sign it.

She reminds us that a stitched picture sometimes outlives us.

She goes on the say at the very least, add your initials and the date (my own preference). She recommends taking your time to decide where to place your "signature or initials". Choose your colors carefully as well, these things matter.

This little chapter pretty much says what needs to be said about the subject.

This is a very "personal" book. Mrs Williams talks about herself, her work, her experiences etc. It is a very warm book, if you know what I mean.

This is a small hardcover book, published by Van Nostrand Reinhold Co in 1978. It has 102 pages.

This book is in very good condition, considering it's age or not. The dust jacket is very good, the edges are a bit worn and bent.  The pages are yellowed by age but that is to be expected, this is a good copy.

The hard cover book inside is a rich metallic gold color. I have not seen another needlework book this color. The pages are very good, white and unmarked, the spine is tight.