Do you have an embroidered heirloom item? If so it’s testimony that someone in the family had needlework skills, manual dexterity, and patience. Where did they get the inspiration and learn techniques?
You may be able to find out from the new archive of UK-published Embroidery and Embroideress Magazine, dating back to 1922. Digital subscriptions are now available at £19.99 for 3 months, £59.99 for a full year.