Kicking off this collection of period pieces is an introduction to the Victorian world of Berlin woolwork tapestry and the type of designs that were popular.  I had never seen any of these patterns, only read about them, so a whole page of originals was very interesting to see.  The information about what subjects were popular and why continues throughout the book, and reading it gave me a fascinating glimpse into the Victorian mind.  From depictions of sporting and exotic animals to pets and floral studies, abstract repeats and borders, the book is beautifully illustrated with large, easy-to-follow charts in color, and lots of photos showing the finished items in suitable settings.  The projects cover usual items such as cushions, curtain tiebacks and wallhangings, to more unusual things like slippers (with foxes' heads on) to carpets if you are feeling ambitious.  Anybody living in an old house will find plenty to occupy their stitching time in here—another lovely and very useful book from Elizabeth Bradley.

If you cannot find a good range of needlecraft materials used in this book locally try SearchPress.com for a list of suppliers.