First of all, the ORGANIZATION of the book is FABULOUS!It starts out with a 15-page "stitch selector" which includes color thumbnail photos of all the stitches covered. The stitches are separated into two groups: Stitches for Fabric and Stitches for Canvas. Within these, the author shows each one of the basic foundational stitches and 6 - 9 of the variations on that stitch, giving page numbers to go directly to those insructions.Next, is an Embroidery Essentials section, which goes through the basics of tools and materials. In this section, she does a great job of talking about the appropriateness of various tools and materials to a particular piece of work. For example, which needles to use for embroidery on silk fabrics, which fabrics are best used for freestyle embroidery and which for counted stitch work. Also here are instructions on marking a design on fabric, stabilizing fabric, working from and reading charts, how to create your own chart, and the basics on beginning and ending a stitch.Each section on the stitches themselves, begins with a photo of a sampler that includes the stitch and its variations covered. The mechanics of each stitch are illustrated and described, topped by a photo showing the stitched used in various ways (like variations on the variation). The author also talks about where and how the stitches are usually used. It's all very clear and easy to follow.There are over 100 pages devoted to the first section on stitches for fabrics, which includes 16 basic, foundational stitches and 6 - 9 variations on those. Over 50 pages are devoted to stitches for canvas, detailing 5 basic stitches and 6 - 9 variations. Over 200 stitches are fully illustrated, photographed and described.The last 50 or so pages are devoted to more information on various techniques such as cutwork, quilting, applique, counted stitch, freestyle embroidery, shadow work, how to finish off and display, etc.HIGHLY, HIGHLY recommend this to the beginner who wants to teach themselves the basics of embroidery, to the more advanced needle worker who wants a good reference on over 200 stitches.