Potpourri of Pattern: A Collection of Original Open Patterns for Canvas and Linen Use

This book by well known teacher Ann Strite-Kurz is complete and thorough treatment of stitching patterns. This isn't a book of pretty projects, rather it is an extremely detailed explanation of stitching patterns, a visual dictionary, if you will. For example, a variation offered is described this way: "Composite pattern combining a main network of four-way diagonal Hungarian and Smyrna Cross with Alternating units of Double straight cross and Blackwork stars." This book is a must for the serious stitcher who doesn't always follow someone else's design. There are several projects included, but the focus of this book is a complete stitching guide to combining traditional stitches.