The origins of embroidery can be traced back to the Warring States period in China (500-300BC) and to Sweden's Migration period (300-700AD), and some would argue that it hasn't changed much over the centuries:

"It is a striking fact that in the development of embroidery ... there are no changes of materials or techniques which can be felt or interpreted as advances from a primitive to a later, more refined stage. On the other hand, we often find in early works a technical accomplishment and high standard of craftsmanship rarely attained in later times" (The Art of Embroidery, 1964).

But these modern-day needle-and-thread pioneers beg to differ. Bored Panda has put together this list of the best and most creative embroidery to prove that while the ancients were good, nothing holds a thimble to what these modern masters can accomplish! Which stitch do you find the most impressive? (h/t: mymodernmet)