4 comments about Art Cloth: A Guide to Surface Design for Fabric.

1. This book is my new "go to" book when I want to be creative with a fabric surface. Jane covers many techniques on surface design, uses many great products...even some you find in your kitchen. Lots of visual inspiration included within the pages.



2. At the high end of the market for a paperback but worth every penny. I also have Complex Cloth by this author and suggested an update for it in my review. This is that update and a very desirable book it is. This has to be the finest guide to printing on cloth. Beautifully produced and illustrated and easy to follow. From making samples to complete art cloths, this book will guide you through the processes involved from preparing cloth, dyeing, over-dyeing, writing on cloth, embellishing and so much more. A firm favourite. This review first appeared on Karen Platt's book review website.



3. If you were faced with the dreaded "only one" question for a comprehensive book on mastering the processes of making complex cloth, this would be IT.(See Su Bleiweiss' review for a description of what "art cloth" or "complex cloth" is.)
   
   This is a truly marvelous book. It is gorgeous,of course, with just enough beautifully-done photos of Jane Dunnewold's and others' pieces of complex art fabric to inspire but not so many as to overwhelm or intimidate It is well-written, and extensive beyond anything else available. Each process (dyeing,discharging,stamping & stenciling,resists (both water-based and bound), and screenprinting - plus metallic foiling & leafing)) is laid out, in an extremely clearly-written text. It is written so that you could start at the beginning and work through all the processes in order - and if you did all that, I imagine you would end up very highly-skilled indeed!
   
   Probably most fabric artists have some level of mastery of most of the processes in the new Art Cloth: A Guide to Surface Design for Fabric, and have dozens of books covering the various techniques. I know I certainly do - and Jane Dunnewold's earlier book, Complex Cloth, has previously been my best guide. It looks to me that with the publication of this new book, Art Cloth is now THE book to have, if you could only have one - it's certainly the one I will keep closest at hand.
   
   In addition to the various techniques, Jane talks about the process of creating meaningful layered cloth, and about the profound importance of "making" itself It's not just a "step 1, step 2" process (although the steps are all there, very clearly put forth), but a very personal & soulful journey. One of the things I love about Jane's work is the way she layers into her cloth words, phrases, and symbols that are meaningful to her - but these phrases are obscured, like the scenery in a deep fog: you may catch only a whisper or a hint of them, or maybe none at all beyond the impression of a letter or two, but the meaning is a deep part of the piece, the part that gives it life and soul. I think of these mostly-secret messages as prayers laid into each layer of the work. More importantly, though, it remains very clear that this book will be about YOUR work, YOUR journey, YOUR mastery and application of the outlined techniques - Jane's work is about Jane's vision, and YOUR work will be about your own.
   
   If you haven't already ordered it, you should do so immediately (no affiliation, just a grateful learner!). Whether you are a total beginner or an advanced fiber artist, this book will inspire and support your journey of exploration. It would be worth the price even if you only wanted to look at the pictures - but there is so much more in these pages!



4. Few artists have had the far reaching and influential impact on the fiber art world as Jane Dunnewold. Her book "Complex Cloth" is considered the must have bible for fiber artists. Since the release of that book, the art of surface design has exploded with new products, techniques and fabrics to work with and combine to create what Jane calls "art cloth". Cloth with layers of color, texture, imagery rich with the imagination of the fiber artist who creates it.
   
   The book opens with the fundamentals reviewing the work space, materials and an overview of the layer building process and then moves into the actual techniques and processes for creating a piece of art cloth. Techniques covered include starting with adding color and covers fiber-reactive dyes and textile paints which is followed by discharge methods. Learn how to create your own stamps and stencils, work with water based resists, methods for screenprinting and how to use foiling and leafing to add depth, brilliance and textural interest to your cloth. Novices to surface design will find it easy to achieve success with each technique with Jane's clearly written and easy to understand directions of each technique and process. Experienced fiber artists may not find anything new to them in this book but will surely benefit from being able to learn how a master surface designer uses them. This new book by Jane will most assuredly follow in the footsteps of Complex Cloth as the surface design bible for any artist working with cloth and belongs on every surface design artists and enthusiasts book shelf no matter what their experience level is.

5 comments about The Art of Manipulating Fabric.

1. The photos alone provide an education in sewing possibilities, from the most basic applications to envelope-pushing artistic expression.



2. I thought I sent a review previously. I'm very pleased with the book. The fast service and condition of the book was great. The Art of Manipulating Fabric is a book I wanted the first time I saw it. The transaction was quick and easy. My expectations were met. Thank You



3. It has a very nice variety of techniques for making that piece of fabric "something else". There are more techniques out there that haven't been included in the book, but it's not an encyclopedia, just one book. I don't give it 5 stars because the photographs are quite small, and sometimes insufficient, but overall the book is useful an interesting.



4. Types of techniques are grouped in easy to find and peruse sections. Instructions are generally clear and are illustrated with LOTS of photos. My only negative criticism would be that some of the techniques seem a bit "out there" to me. In fairness, it may be that I simply have no particular use for them.
   
   If you do a lot of sewing, quilting or any fabric crafting this book is a must have.



5. This book is wonderful, it provides numerous techniques with excellent instructions that can be used in quilting and garment sewing. Fantastic ideas. Price was good and condition outstanding. Very prompt delivery.

No comments about Fa la la la Felt: 45 Handmade Holiday Decorations.

5 comments about Generation T: 108 Ways to Transform a T-Shirt.

1. I absolutely love this book. Unlike many 't-shirt surgery' books, this one includes very wearable projects, not just skimpy midriff-revealing halter tops. There is a whole chapter on skirts that could easily be worn to a casual office. The wedding gown constructed from t-shirts is absolutely gorgeous. Many of these projects are simple enough for older kids to try - a great way to teach them how to sew, a life skill for which they will one day thank you. There are projects for guys, too! And all you need is t-shirts, cheap and easy to obtain from thrift and discount stores, or just clean out your t-shirt drawer and give your favorite tees a new life. Most of these can easily be done with hand-sewing in just a few hours. This is definitely a keeper. I loved it so much, I just bought the sequel. Generation T: Beyond Fashion: 120 New Ways to Transform a T-shirt



2. This is one of two on this topic I would recommend. I purchased this one as a gift. It is perfect for people who have few to no sewing skills.
   Maybe not to standard of advanced tailor or one who prefers her/his clothing to be well finished: seams covered, edges bound, more typical fasteners than pins, or use of hardware like eyelets (as opposed to holes in fabric) etc.
   If latter is the case, then they are well prepared to modify to their liking.
   Excellent..great for sub-teens to ?



3. I am really loving and enjoying this book. I have tons of T-shirts with graphics I love, but are just too boxy and boring. Within two days of owning it, I have been able to transform two tees into something that is more feminine and wearable with skirts. I will say that the sizing can get tough for a plus size woman - particularly the skirts. If the book asks for and L or XL, you probably want at least an XXL, probably a XXXL for skirts. The designs are definitely funky and, yes, maybe a little 80s, but I enjoy wearing oddball things. Some of the things are revealing, but there are things you can do to change it. This book is more of an inspiration and guide book, not a cookbook, so you should definitely play around with the patterns to fit you. I think it is worth it!



4. If you like the 80's punk style this book can be inspiring, if you can get away without wearing a bra this book can be very useful. The projects are cute and creative and simple enough for a beginning crafter. I think a tween or teen would really get into it - and with very few supplies needed. I've enjoyed looking through this book and have used it for inspiration now and then but that's about it for (almost 40) me.



5. I had seen this book many times in various craft stores I ventured in and have always wanted to have my own copy. I finally took the plunge and I'm happy I did! There are a few designs that don't really appeal to my taste, but that is the case with any book like this. There are more than enough designs in here that there is no way you won't find something you don't like. I highly recommend it!

1 comments about The Found Object in Textile Art.

1. In her introduction the artist writes " The ideas, processes and methods contained in this book are intended to
   act as a stimulus for the textile artists who like to use found materials as part of their experimental working
   practice". Indeed, once you start flipping through the pages of this book you'll find it hard not to look at everything from the contents of the recycle bins to old textiles, coffee filters and other seemingly mundane every day objects as a potential art supply.
   
   The book opens with an overview of processes and methods using paint, ink and dye along with found natural and man made objects to create marks on the surface of paper and fabric. This chapter gives the reader a library of
   potential techniques and ideas to refer to when considering how to alter the surface that they're working with.
   The second chapter gives advice on where to search for found objects, how to recycle previous materials and
   gives the reader a guide on sorting found textiles and papers . You'll also find ideas for presenting work with a section on creating unusual frames for displaying the finished art work. The author also discusses working with found containers and boxes, altered books and provides directions on creating simple journals from folded paper.
   
   The "Magpie of the Mind" chapter talks about observation and recording as a way to inspire your creative muse.
   Using the camera, keeping a sketchbook, elements of design and a discussion on Notan are followed by some
   helpful advice on what to do if you feel stuck or uninspired. Finally the book closes with a chapter on Sharing and how teaching and working with the community can help enrich the artistic process.
   
   This book does not contain any step by step projects. You won't find directions for recreating any of the beautiful pieces showcased in this book. It is meant to be a guide and source of inspiration for those who want to incorporate found or recycled materials into their artwork and stretch their mixed media wings.

5 comments about Kanzashi in Bloom: 20 Simple Fold-and-Sew Projects to Wear and Give.

1. Evidently I didn't read the description carefully enough before ordering, because I expected 20 flowers - not 20 projects. (duh) Anyway, there are just a few pages detailing how to create a few flowers, then the projects start right in on page 38. BUT... the instructions seem very clear, with terrific photos, so I may get a good start and build from there on my own. I rarely regret adding to my library, so even if it's not what I expected, I know I'll end up loving it more at some point down the road.



2. Ever since I saw my first kanzashi flower last year, I resolved to learn how to make my own flowers but have found it difficult to find a complete tutorial online for free or paid. I found this book recently and decided to give it a try. This is absolutely the BEST book I have found that focuses simply on this beautiful artform. There are detailed photographs guiding you step by step and while I have yet to try any of the pieces, I am already greatly inspired by the wide variety of techniques, materials and designs. While the other books on Japanese folding are also useful and fun to read, if you are looking specifically for a great introduction to kanzashi, this is a must-have.



3. I bought this book because I was interested in making a Kanzashi bouquet for my wedding. This best thing about the book is that the instructions are very clear and easy to follow. Anyone with a little crafting skill can be whipping up flowers in no time. I do wish that the book had included instructions for a few more petal/flower styles. I was a bit disappointed to discover that the bulk of the book consisted of suggestions for things that you could do with the flowers, rather than actual flower making. Still, it's a great place to start if you've never made Kanzashi before, I'm happy with the purchase and it helped me accomplish my goal of a Kanzashi bouquet with beautiful results.



4. This book is very well written with clear instructions and a lot of step by step pictures that were very helpful. My first attempt was perfect and fast!



5. The book delivers on it's promise: there are step-by-step photographic instructions to make three different kanzashi petals (which you can combine in many different ways) and 20 projects you can make that incorporate your kanzashi that are also painstakingly documented with full instructions. It's rare to find an American craft book with this level of technical explanation *and* such a wide range of projects (tote bag, wallet, tea cozy, etc).
   
   Diane demystifies the process of creating these beautiful flowers. My first project from the book was a beautiful hair pin and it took me only 15 minutes. I was amazed at how easy they are to make and how professional looking they are. Great book!

5 comments about Fabric Dyer's Dictionary: 900+ Colors, Specialty Techiniques, The Only Dyeing Book You'll Ever Need!.

1. I must own every fabric dyeing book published and they all have their strengths. However, what's lacking in these books is a comprehensive set of color formulas. Fabric Dyer's Dictionary does provide a comprehensive set of mixing formulas plus an explanation of why that color happens. Now I know what causes some colors to be more muted verses bright. The color photos in this book are terrific and the content is rich and encompassing. I also like that none of the pages in this book are wasted on projects using hand-dyed fabric. If you are a beginning or serious fabric dyer, this book will be a great addition to your library!



2. This book is a great reference for anyone working with ProMX dyes. The colors are well documented with pictures. My only complaint is that the formulas are based on her "stock solutions" which she based on tablespoons and teaspoons, instead of weight. However, you can convert her measurements to percentages easily enough. I highly recommend!



3. I have read many books on dyeing, I love colour. Apart from giving the basics of the process and preparation, this book gives wonderful 'recipes' for dyeing cloth in fabulous shades of colour. None of my other dyeing books do this. So I think this book is tops. In addition it has information on speciality techniques such as soda ash to get texture into the dye, layering and much more. Highly recommended for dyers. This review first appeared on Karen Platt's book review website.



4. tHIS IS A GREAT BOOK. I've been dyeing for a while now, but I admit I am just past the beginning stage and this book has the formulas for mixing colors, all colors, will be my standard from now on.



5. This is a new book that arrived today from C&T Publishing. Despite the fact the the author, Linda Johansen, and I share a last name -I don't know her. Ratz! My favorite dyeing books have always been Anne Johnston's and Elin Noble's. I started dyeing cloth by using them and always refer back to them. This book, however, will definitely have a new place next to these others in my library. This is a book that I really, really like. It is written clearly, concisely and is exceptionally well illustrated. The book is laid out well. The basics are, of course, covered in the beginning of the book with detailed handling and mixing instructions. She also goes over the importance of record keeping - something that I was never very good at doing. I just always loved the kismet of the process - I liked never knowing what would happen. She compares the clear, muted and black colors offered by both ProChem and Dharma Trading. It's a handy little table. Each page details instructions for using fat quarters, half yards and yards of fabrics. This is a nice, handy way to present the needed information.he pages below are for creating a rainbow. She delineates the process for clear, muted and dark rainbow colors. Clear, concise and easy to understand. The end of the book is devote to some specialty techniques; tie dying, rolling, patterning, layering, using dye powders and pleating and dipping
   
   Linda Johansen has had 5 books, I think it is, published through C&T Publishing. I am so pleased to have this as an addition to my dyeing library. I think it's a book that will please anyone who has an interest in hand dyeing their own fabrics.

5 comments about Uniquely Felt.

1. This book by Christine White covers a multiplicity of wool felting techniques in a well organized and informative way.
   The first section goes over the different supplies needed, with explanations for each (what kind of soap to use, bamboo or bubble wrap as felting mats, etc.) The comprehensive listing of the many kinds of wool or other felting fibers is displayed in clear,concise charts.
   A demonstration of how to do some projects by different artists follows, with easy steps, good photos, illustrations and explanations.
   I use this book as a reference tool,and keep it in my studio. It would be an excellent purchase for anyone interested in wool felting, from beginners to more experienced.



2. 
   
   Loved this book. Lots of great ideas. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in felting!



3. Ive been fiddling around with felting for a couple of years off and on and really got serious with it this fall...finding I really didint have any complete books on it....I looked until I found this one....This is it..I have all the information I need to do any project wether fun or serious...Im glad I found a book that I can buy and stop with....I dont have to hunt any more.....lots of pages.lots of pictures..lots of info....B.W.



4. I am a total beginner but the book looks interesting, I think I will need same lessons for underestand all the processes



5. Great book. I've been wet-felting for about 2 years. It wasn't til I got this book that I found out how much I didn't know and how many more wonderful (and easy) things I could be doing doing with my wet-felting projects. Well written and illustrated directions, tons of ideas. I'll recommend it to my students (yes, I teach an 'intro to wet-felting' workshop, so it's really great to get some fresh inspiration and very doable projects.)

5 comments about 1,000 Artisan Textiles: Contemporary Fiber Art, Quilts, and Wearables.

1. This book is really good for inspiration. The book is primarily pictures with a short (very short) description of materials used in the back. I wish that part was more flushed out but still a great book!!



2. This book does not have 1000 different artisan textiles as teh title states. It has 1000 PHOTOS of artisan textiles, but nearly 1/5 of the photos are detail shots of a larger piece, shown in its entirety. I'm not knocking the book at all - it's beautiful! But the title is misleading. The work and the photos represented will offer inspiration and reference to any textile lover for years to come.



3. This book gives you beautiful photos of wearable arts and fiber pieces.
   If you are looking for inspirations I would recommend this book.



4. An inspiring compilation of current work by women.
   An eye-opener into the contemporary art scene.



5. I stumbled upon this book recently and am thinking I am going to need a bigger purse so I can lug it around with me. Although I am most interested in a particular textile group, I am finding myself attracted to works in every category represented.
   
   It's terrific that they've included websites for each of the artists in the index so you can view more of their work on line too.

5 comments about Japanese Braiding: The Art of Kumihimo.

1. This book is very well made. Step-by-step pictures and well-designed diagrams complement the clearly articulated instructions, and the format lends itself to quickly moving beyond the material in the book and towards personal experimentation. I also really like the spiral-bound format, built to lay flat on any page and allowing you to practice this craft with the book open at your side.



2. I have 2 other books on Kumihimo by Jacqui Carey and have been working with beads in kumihimo for several years. I especially like this book because it is a great size for taking with you, yet it has a lot of information. It's is a great book for both beginners and advanced "kumihimoers." I also recommend getting Jacqui's first book on Kumihimo.



3. This book is a very good example of the various methods of working with kumihimo, the Japanese form of braiding. The procedures are well explained with excellent photos to accompany the explanations.



4. Excellent book. Good, basic instructions, easy to follow. The best part is the spiral bound and small size. Makes it easier to deal with while using a marudi.



5. Unless you absolutely NEED a spiral bound copy of the book, don't bother. It's an almost exact copy (some images are moved about for space on the pages and the numbers don't EXACTLY correspond ie-pg. 30 is not the same in both books) of the "Beginner's guide to Braiding, The Craft of Kumihimo" Beginner's Guide to Braiding: The craft of Kumihimo published in 1997 in Britain and later in the US.
   
   The reviews listed below the book now, were NOT there when this book became available for preorder (I placed my preorder in January 2009). Had they been, I could have surmised that this book was a reprint of a 1997 edition based on the ages of the reviews.. I really dislike the fact that the book has been retitled, giving no indication of its previous title, nor any reference to the other ISBN.
   
   When I placed my preorder on this book, Ms. Carey had NO information about this incarnation of this edition, no mention that this was a reprinted/rebound copy of an earlier book, on her website. I -love- her books, they're outstanding, but how many copies of one book do I REALLY require on my shelf or on my workbench? In addition, Amazon did not have any further information indicating it was a reprint either.
   
   Ms. Carey has done this with another book as well "200 Braids to Twist, Knot, Loop or Weave" (published in the US in 2007, Interweave Press 200 Braids to Twist, Knot, Loop, or Weave) and "The Braider's Bible" (published in Britain in 2007, Search Press Ltd.The Braider's Bible).
   
   Not at all fun to realize that the book you purchased, believing it was a UK-Only edition, is actually a copy of what you already had on the shelf. And because it came from the UK, I cannot easily return it (I'd end up spending enough to purchase the book between the original shipping and return shipping).
   
   While I understand that Amazon may not know that these are the exact same books, I do expect the publisher and ESPECIALLY the author, to note that they are exact copies of each book, just rebound with a DIFFERENT TITLE, ISBN and different cover.
   
   The book is beautiful, and if you find that you need a spiral copy of "Beginner's guide to Braiding, The Craft of Kumihimo" 1997, great! At least go into this and spend your money on something knowing what it was originally packaged as. It gets a 1-star for lack of disclosure and reference to a prior edition.
   
   PLEASE NOTE: I rated the spiral bound edition of Japanese Braiding: The Art of Kumihimo, but because they've now linked BOTH titles, it shows up as a bad review of the Beginner's Guide to Braiding: The craft of Kumihimo, which was absolutely NOT my intent. My review ONLY concerns the spiral-bound, newly retitled and newly re-released copy of Japanese Braiding: The Art of Kumihimo.