Focusing on over 20 textiles from the British Museum's collection, this book explores the wonderful folk embroidery of India and Pakistan - in particular the domestic work made by women for their own dowry or family. Illustrated in full and in detail, these richly decorated items - costumes and household textiles -should provide designers at all levels with inspiration for new and unexpected ways for using colour and pattern in their own work. In her introduction, the author provides contextual information to bring the pieces to life. She looks at who the embroiderers are, describes their tribal backgrounds and considers the way in which their embroidery fits into their lives. The protective and talismanic roles of embroidery and the tribal variations in stitch, pattern and colour are also discussed. The author looks, too, at the dyes and materials used and the principal stitching techniques. Where appropriate, brief commentaries highlight the design features and detailed captions throughout provide the textile student with relevant technical information. In addition all techniques and terms are fully explained in a glossary. Whether you want to rely on the book for eye-catching patterns or refer to it for specific technical information there is a wealth of inspiration for readers of all levels.