The art of embroidery involves stitching designs on fabric or other surfaces, using threads and needles, sometimes including materials such as metals, sequins, and beads.

While embroidery is practiced across the world, it has been traced to the 5th-3rd century BCE. Depending on the time and location, embroidery could be the domain of a few experts or a widespread, popular technique. For example, in the Middle Ages, professional workshops and guilds elaborately embroidered clothing, religious objects, and household items, making embroidery a mark of wealth and status.

Hand embroidery has many techniques for stitching designs. Just like in drawing, you can find a variety of ways to create images with a thread. And embroidery doesn’t stop at fabric — you can stitch on a variety of materials: paper or printed photos, felt, etc.