[1]: 59  It was known for producing both domestic and ecclesiastical embroidery work, which was granted prestigious awards for its fineness and high quality.

This method of embroidery was a reaction against the repetitive and unskilled needlework known as Berlin wool work, which had been immensely popular since the 1830s amongst leisured ladies.

[11]: 34  The Leek Embroidery Society's work was representative of the Arts and Crafts movement, of which Morris was a leading figure.

In 1881 the Society instigated an exhibition at the Leek Art School with the director of the South Kensington Museum presenting the prizes.

[1]: 59  The Leek embroidery style was recognizable by the accomplished design and the vivid colors and richness of the silk.

[11]: 35 By 1885, thirty-seven ladies of the Leek School of Art Embroidery Society began work on a replica of the Bayeux Tapestry.

Work took a year and the replica was exhibited across Britain, and in the USA and Germany, before finding its final home at Reading Museum in 1895.