Effie Mitrofanis is a researcher and tutor of creative and traditional hand embroidery. She exhibits and lectures regularly in Australia and internationally. She is the author of five books, Creative Canvas Embroidery, Tassels & Trimmings, Decorative Tassels and Cords and Casalguidi Style Linen Embroidery, and Needleweaving and Embroidery, published by Sally Milner Publishing in 2005. She is also a successful designer of embroidery kits. Effie has studied embroidery and needle lace in the U.K., Italy, Greece, China and India. She has an Associate Diploma of Fine Art, and Master of Visual & Performing Arts, focussing on the origin and evolution of needle lace. She has published numerous articles in the World of Embroidery, U.K. and magazines in Australia. She has a passionate interest in the art, pattern and texture of embroidery, its history, its makers and techniques.