Dragons, phoenixes, astrological signs, emblems of good fortune, and other auspicious characters: Chinese art and culture offer an endless array of beautiful designs for you to use in your cross-stitch. Take inspiration from this very special collection of strikingly alluring patterns and projects, and see how the motifs bring fresh creativity to your embroidery. Stitch aromatic herb ropes, decorated with lotuses (for peace and a happy marriage), a fish (prosperity), a peach (longevity), and three other symbols. Celebrate Chinese New Year with a wall hanging, featuring all the animals from the astrological menagerie. Borrow images from the finest porcelains, and embroider them onto ginger-jar cushions.With your needle, create pincushions based on paintings, a peony clockface, a picture of a pagoda, fans, and even board games like Mah-Jong. Many ideas for further designs-and a library of patterns to adapt--will keep you happily stitching for a long time to come. Copyright (C) Muze Inc. 2005. For personal use only. All rights reserved.