Written by a team of the most important and influential names in the field, it explores the creative potential of stitch through the use of a variety of machines. Each contributor offers their own perspective on machine stitch, drawing upon collections such as The Fashion Museum in Bath, Platt Hall Museum of Costume in Manchester, and in particular the rich and unique archive of machines, samples and artwork held by Manchester Metropolitan University. It describes how key machines can be utilised within contemporary artistic and industrial contexts, through revealing its fascinating history and development into computerisation. Illustrating how to combine techniques and develop ideas, it demonstrates the rich possibilities of the sewing machine as a creative tool.