Smocking, the venerable English peasant craft dating from the late eighteenth century, was a needle technique originally used to adorn the traditional rural work chemise. Today's needleworkers will welcome this collection of 22 beautiful smocking patterns by noted designer Allyne Holland, as well as an informative discussion of smocking traditions, materials, fabric preparation, stitching techniques, and all the finishing touches. Make an exquisite yoke or a pocket for a favorite blouse, ornament pillows and evening bags, embellish children's clothing with baskets or butterflies, and create countless other special items using the charming patterns provided. Ranging in difficulty from intermediate to advanced, the patterns divide into four basic groups: Geometric Smocking, Cross-Over Combinations, popular Picture Smocking, and Advanced Designs. Choose from "Victorian Memories," "Katie's Best," "Magic," "Rosina's Garden," "Madeira Lace," and many other beautiful designs. A valuable section on stitching techniques presents clear step-by-step instructions and helpful diagrams for dozens of straight stitches, wave stitches, stitch combinations, and decorative or accent embroidery stitches ? including cable stitch, honeycomb stitch, trellis stitch, satin stitch, lazy daisy stitch, and many more. In addition, you'll find easy-to-follow smocking graphs for each design, stitch keys, and a useful glossary of smocking terms.