Encyclopedia of Needlework, Therese de Dillmont

This is a fine English-language copy of the classic Encyclopedia of Needlework by Thérèse de Dillmont — a foundational guide to embroidery, lacework, and textile arts. Published in France by Éditions Th. de Dillmont and distributed in the UK by D.M.C. Thread Co., London, this c.1935–1940 edition reflects the high production standards of the famed D.M.C. Library series, with the print run noted as exceeding 1,540,000 copies.

Encyclopedia of Needlework, by Therese de Dillmont. Published by Éditions Th. de Dillmont, Mulhouse (France), c.1935–1940 (estimate based on previous print numbers).

Elegantly bound in olive green cloth with printed black decorative design, the book features metallic gold-and-black D.M.C. pattern endpapers, a green silk ribbon marker, and is richly illustrated with hundreds of engravings and 16 colour plates. The text block is crisp and bright, showing minimal signs of use. A discreet distributor label from D.M.C. Thread Co. Ltd., London is affixed to the reverse of the first free endpaper.

Notably, this copy is housed in its original publisher’s protective box — a simple but well-preserved brown card slipcase with staple-sealed edges and printed with the letter "E." on the spine, likely denoting "English edition". A faint pencil price marking (8/6) remains from early UK retail distribution. With previous owner's name and address to flap, which also has a taped repair.

A remarkably well-preserved copy of a legendary instructional work, seldom found complete with its fragile original box. Ideal for collectors, needleworkers, and lovers of decorative arts history.

Text in English.

Prelims + 787pp + XVI Plates + numerous tables and D.M.C. pages.

Dimensions of book: Approximately 156mm high x 115mm wide x 32mm deep.

Weight: Approximately 512g (unpacked).