Ideal for beginners and children, perfectly suitable for more experienced needlewomen, Gobelin stitch gives to canvas a tightly-woven appearance that resembles old tapestries. Popular in Scandinavia (the source of many designs here), it works quickly, requires simple counting, and can be used for eye-catching effects, especially checkerboard variations. Although some designs here have a static look--a risk with single-stitch work--more often color contrasts and stitch direction have been used attractively; the designs inspired by American Indian, African, and Egyptian work are especially interesting. Chatterton, whose previous works include the distinctive Scandinavian Knitting Designs, has assembled a substantial collection to showcase this basic stitch.