Exploring the potential of needlepoint as an inspirational source, this book's examples come from the natural world - the patterned markings of frogs, butterflies, flowers, shells and stones, and the man-made markings of primitive cultures - with the ideas and designs grouped into chapters. These chapters include fruits & vegetables, fish & fowl, flowers & foliage, faces & fans, and jugs & geometrics. The embroiderer is given ideas for producing his or her own designs, as well as charted patterns for colourful rugs, shoulder bags, cushions and other items.