Any stitcher would be delighted to receive...

Any stitcher would be delighted to receive two unusual and beautiful needlepoint books this holiday season.

Flowers, Birds and Unicorns: Medieval Needlepoint (Harry N. Abrams Inc. $29.95; 128 pp.) abounds with the beauty and intricacy of medieval art. Textile artist Candace Bahouth took her inspiration from the famous tapestry series “The Lady and the Unicorn” as well as various illuminated manuscripts and books of hours to create 20 new projects, including cushions of several sizes, tapestry-style vests and several motifs and borders that can be made into wall hangings or small bags.

All of the designs are worked in basic tent stitch, which means even a beginner can work on them. There are 70 photographs, 20 charts in full color and 10 stitch diagrams. Finishing techniques are also covered.

Carole Lazarus and Jennifer Berman also looked to great works of art for their newest book, Glorafilia: The Impressionists in Needlepoint (Crown: $35; 160 pp.). Some of the projects include cushions featuring Monet’s water lilies; place mats drawn from a still life of apples and oranges by Cezanne, and a wall hanging inspired by Degas’ famous ballet dancer. The colors are luscious.

There are 21 projects, each featuring introductory text, a color chart, detailed instructions and a reproduction of the painting that provided the inspiration. As is their wont, they use a wealth of decorative stitches, but a beginner could work each design in basic tent.