Embroidery, Needlework 

The cross-stitch designs of the Transylvanian Saxon peasants are among the most fascinating embroideries in existence. This collection of 195 charted designs, originally collected prior to World War I by Emil Sigerus, is an invaluable source of unusual and interesting ideas of modern cross-stitchers and other craftspeople.

These ornate, highly stylized designs cover a vast array of moods and historical epochs, from the medieval (mounted knights, falconers, winged horses, dragons, gryphons) to the strikingly modern (abstract designs, unusual geometric forms, florals) and range in complexity from simple patterns composed of a few lines to very intricate symmetrical designs. Portions of these designs are also a source of many repeat and border patterns and spot decorations.

The designs are printed on a chart so that they can easily be used for needlepoint, Fair Isle knitting, rug-hooking, or any other form of counted-thread embroidery. And because the chart makes it easy to vary the size of each design, you can use the patterns to decorate anything from small pillows to bedspreads or wallhangings. Other craftspeople can transfer the patterns onto wood, metal, canvas, or mosaic to achieve stimulating and unusual effects.