How to Select Embroidered Art (English Edition): A Quick Shopping Guide for Travelers to China – Hand vs Machine, Prices & Bargaining

A pocket-sized guide for anyone who wants to buy Chinese embroidery without getting lost in the market.

Walking through a Chinese craft market or antique street can be overwhelming. Stalls overflow with embroidered textiles — from small framed pieces and silk purses to elaborate wall hangings — and every seller claims their work is “handmade” and “traditional.” How do you tell the difference between a genuine Suzhou silk embroidery and a machine-made imitation? How do you know what a fair price is?

This book is designed to answer those questions. Part of the How to Select series published by China Intercontinental Press for travelers to China, it serves as a practical companion for anyone shopping for Chinese embroidered art.

Inside, you’ll find guidance on the major regional embroidery traditions — including the renowned Su, Xiang, Yue, and Shu styles — along with tips on evaluating stitchwork, materials, and craftsmanship. The compact, illustrated format is built for browsing on the go, so you can carry it with you while exploring markets in Beijing, Shanghai, Suzhou, or beyond.