I just bought an older book at a Half Price Book store called "Threadplay" by Libby Lehman. It was published in 1997 but doesn't seem to make a difference. You could play for a year with her examples. The book has the usual basics re thread, fabric, machines, needles, tools, stabilizers and construction which I just skim over nowadays, but then you get to the Techniques! Ribbon Illusions, Sheer Stitching, Applique and Embroider! Good instructions, easy to follow. Well worth the $5.99.