Top 12 Embroidery Books for Beginners (PDF & Print)
A curated list of the best stitch dictionaries, vintage pattern books, and modern guides you can download or buy today.
Learning embroidery starts with mastering the basic stitches. While YouTube tutorials are great, nothing beats having a comprehensive embroidery book PDF or physical copy on your desk for reference.
Whether you are looking for free vintage embroidery books in PDF format or the latest bestsellers from modern artists, this guide covers the essential library every needleworker needs. We've categorized them by skill level and focus area.
In this guide
1. Essential Stitch Dictionaries
The Embroidery Stitch Bible
Often considered the "Gold Standard" for beginners. It features over 200 stitches with step-by-step photos. If you only buy one book, make it this one.
Encyclopedia of Embroidery Stitches
A classic from Reader's Digest. It covers everything from basic running stitches to complex hardanger. Excellent diagrams that are often clearer than photos.
2. Free Vintage Embroidery Books (PDF)
Did you know many embroidery books from the early 1900s are now in the public domain? You can legally download these embroidery books for beginners PDF format for free.
Thérèse de Dillmont's Encyclopedia
Originally published in 1884, "The Encyclopedia of Needlework" is arguably the most famous needlework book in history.
Search Project GutenbergMary Thomas's Dictionary
A vintage classic known for its whimsical illustrations and very clear instructions on stitch mechanics.
Check Archive.org3. Modern & Botanical Guides
Trish Burr's Needle Painting
For those ready to move beyond outlines. Trish Burr is the master of "Needle Painting" (long and short stitch shading). Her PDF guides and books are essential for realistic floral work.
Why Download PDF Embroidery Books?
Digital embroidery books PDF format allow you to zoom in on high-resolution stitch diagrams, which is incredibly helpful for beginners. Plus, you can print specific pattern pages without bending a physical book spine. Whether you choose free vintage resources or support modern artists by purchasing their e-books, building a digital library is a smart move for any stitcher.
Where to find more?
Check out resources like Archive.org (Internet Archive) and Project Gutenberg for a vast collection of public domain embroidery books for beginners PDF free download. For modern patterns, support artists on Etsy or their personal websites.
Want to create your own patterns?
Use our free tool to convert any image into a PDF pattern.