Embroidery from Afghanistan

Book excerpt: Embroidery from Afghanistan is varied, rich, and sumptuous. This book focuses on over thirty pieces and explores the embroidery of different tribes and their geographical regions. Illustrated in full color and in detail, the textiles included will provide designers at all levels with inspiration for the use of color and pattern in their own designs. In her introduction, Sheila Paine sets the pieces in their social and cultural contexts and investigates the shared traditions of the various tribes. The costumes of men, women, and children are illustrated, as are embroideries for the home and yurt, domestic animals, and precious possessions. Information on decorative techniques, patterning, and stitching is included, together with a technical glossary that supports the main text.