Thread painting is a form of embroidery that creates a realistic, lifelike effect using just one stitch. In this step-by-step guide, embroidery artist Emillie Ferris has created five exclusive patterns inspired by nature. Iron-on transfers at the back of the book allow you to transfer the designs to fabric to get started straight away.

From the crops that have fed billions of people over the centuries to the plants highly regarded for their medicinal qualities, this fascinating offering from garden expert Bill Laws unearths the stories behind some of the world's best-known plants.