Chair Backs is a comprehensive and richly illustrated guide dedicated to the art and craft of creating decorative chair backs, a popular element of home décor in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Authored by Mary E. Waring, this book offers a detailed exploration of various techniques, patterns, and materials used to embellish and protect the backs of chairs, which were both functional and ornamental in Victorian and Edwardian households. The book features a wide array of designs, ranging from simple and elegant to intricate and elaborate, catering to both beginners and experienced needleworkers. Each pattern is accompanied by clear instructions, practical tips, and suggestions for color combinations, making it accessible for readers to replicate or adapt the designs to suit their own tastes and interiors. The author emphasizes the importance of harmony between the chair back and the overall room décor, providing guidance on selecting appropriate fabrics, threads, and embellishments such as lace, embroidery, and applique. In addition to step-by-step directions, Chair Backs includes advice on caring for and maintaining these decorative pieces, ensuring their longevity and continued beauty. The book also delves into the historical and cultural significance of chair backs, reflecting on their role in domestic life and their evolution as a form of artistic expression. With its blend of practical instruction, artistic inspiration, and historical context, Chair Backs serves as both a valuable resource for needlework enthusiasts and a fascinating glimpse into the decorative arts of a bygone era. Whether used as a manual for crafting or as a source of inspiration for interior decoration, this book remains a testament to the enduring appeal of handmade home adornments.