100 Best Fabric Books of All Time
We've researched and ranked the best fabric books in the world, based on recommendations from world experts, sales data, and millions of reader ratings. Learn more
Through his lyrical translations, Coleman Barks has been instrumental in bringing this exquisite literature to a remarkably wide range of readers, making the ecstatic, spiritual poetry of thirteenth-century Sufi Mystic Rumi more popular than ever.
The Essential Rumi continues to be the bestselling of all Rumi books, and the definitive selection of his beautiful, mystical poetry. less
Adam Robinson[The author]’s gotten me in touch with the mystical, and the mysterious, and the magical in life. (Source)
Adam Robinson[The author]’s gotten me in touch with the mystical, and the mysterious, and the magical in life. (Source)
Zainab SalbiIn the evolution of my journey I learned that the way that we can transform women’s lives and our lives generally is not necessarily only through the warrior’s ways. I do not deny the warrior’s ways. I have ridden the horse and carried the armour! But as I evolve in my own growth I have learnt that the way we can truly achieve transformation and change is through our own inner peace. It is... (Source)
In "The Art of manipulating Fabric," Colette Wolff has set herself just this task, and she succeeds brilliantly. Working from the simplest possible form - a flat piece of cloth and a threaded needle - she categorizes all major dimensional techniques, show how they are related, and give examples of variations both traditional and modern. The result is...
Space and time form the very fabric of the cosmos. Yet they remain among the most mysterious of concepts. Is space an entity? Why does time have a direction? Could the universe exist without space and time? Can we travel to the past? Greene has set himself a daunting task: to explain non-intuitive, mathematical concepts like String Theory, the Heisenberg... more
Walter IsaacsonThis is the clearest explanation of Newton and Einstein available, and Greene does it with a great sense of humour and wonderful visual thought experiments. (Source)
Sean M CarrollIt covers issues that don’t get attention in other places, such as the nature of time, the nature of space and really gives you a profound understanding of the universe. (Source)
This book will help you find the fabrics that suit the affects you want to achieve, show you how the fabric will perform, and recommend ways of using it. This new edition has information that is key to industry professionals (including designers and owners of fashion businesses) and explains textile issues and their impact on the environment. Find the perfect fabric for every design:
Do you want a fabric for structure, drape, added volume, definition, or decoration? Do you want... more
This book bridges that gap by providing a mix of practical information and industry vocabulary, visually examining generic fabric types, discussing the characteristics of fabrics and showing how to exploit materials... more
Infuse your everyday style with more color, more pattern, and more personality. Printmaker and textile designer Jen Hewett presents her distinctive process for block-printing yards of fabric with garment sewing in mind. Explore the process of designing and printing fabric through step-by-step instruction on carving blocks and printing pattern repeats. Hewett makes creating custom, hand-printed fabric approachable and doable. Inspired by her... more
Grace BonneyWe're so excited to share a peek at Jen Hewett’s new book, Print, Pattern, Sew and... we have 10 copies to give away! Just hop over to the post & share your favorite hobby for a chance to win: https://t.co/d3BnSh2cLZ https://t.co/80oEMt5SC6 (Source)
Don't have time to read the top Fabric books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.
Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:
- Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
- Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
- Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.
Organized alphabetically, the 107 fabrics include old favorites--like cotton, wool, knits, and... more
A practical and inspiring guide to creating and using natural dyes from plants, Wild Color, Revised and Updated Edition, offers the latest information on current environmentally friendly dyeing techniques and more than 65 species of plants and natural dyestuffs.
This comprehensive book outlines all the necessary equipment, how to select fibers and plant parts, choose the right methods for mordanting and dyeing, test color modifiers and the... more
A treasured guide beloved by knitters everywhere, the classic book The Principles of Knitting is finally available again in a fully revised and updated edition. This is the definitive book on knitting techniques, with valuable information for everyone from beginners to experienced knitters. June Hiatt presents not only a... more
Don't have time to read the top Fabric books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.
Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:
- Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
- Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
- Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.
Designer Bari J. Ackerman’s signature Style—modern florals bursting with color—brings energy and joy to interior design. Justina Blakeney and Anne Sage are fans of Ackerman’s work, and have this to say about her approach:
“Bari’s designs are instantly recognizable . . . her style and her zest for life is visible in every brushstroke.” —Justina Blakeney
“Bari captures the essence of maximalism. Her designs radiate... more
I share my methods with you, step-by-step. The pages are bursting with photos of the dyeing process as well as photos of fabric and yarn samples from lots of different plants.
Perhaps you already dye with plants using conventional mordants such as alum and would... more
The Psychology Book looks at the biggest names in psychology, including William James, Sigmund Freud, and Ivan Pavlov, and unpacks each psychologist's contribution to our understanding of how the mind works. From its philosophical roots through behaviorism, psychotherapy, and developmental psychology, The Psychology Book incorporates the latest thinkings of today's... more
Don't have time to read the top Fabric books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.
Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:
- Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
- Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
- Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.
In "Taking Flight," you'll find overflowing inspiration—complete with a kindred spirit in author and mixed-media artist Kelly Rae Roberts. Join her on a fearless journey into the heart of creativity as you test your wings and learn to find the sacred in the ordinary, honor your memories, speak your truth and wrap yourself in the arms of community.
Along the way you'll be inspired by:
Step-by-step techniques—learn the most-loved mixed-media methods of the author and seven talented contributing artists, and combine... more
Abstract appliquéd shapes cascade across the surface of Ita Ziv’s brilliantly colored quilts, creating vibrant celebrations of life. Noriko Endo captures her deep feeling for trees in a stunning interplay of light, shadow, and leaves. Gloves appear in nearly every quilt by Jane Burch Cochran,... more
Get a handle on how cloth consumption affects nature on a larger scale. Look at what textiles are really made from, and examine their properties with an emphasis on those derived from natural sources.
In no time you'll have the tools to make informed choices... more
Don't have time to read the top Fabric books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.
Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:
- Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
- Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
- Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.
Printed Textile Design helps to demystify the design process and provides an invaluable guide to the study and practice of textile design.
The book includes case studies of designers working in both the fashion and interiors sectors. It covers hand and traditional print techniques and the latest digital print technologies,... more
Fabrics in Fashion Design showcases a wide range of patterns, their history and terminology, and is illustrated with around 1,600 colour photographs. Fabrics in Fashion Design is an exhaustive study of the... more
Pattern is the strongest element in any room. In Living with Pattern, Rebecca Atwood demystifies how to use that element, a design concept that often confounds and confuses, demonstrating how to seamlessly mix and layer prints throughout a house. She covers pattern usage you probably already have, such as on your duvet cover or in the living room rug, and she also reveals the unexpected places you might not have thought to add it: bathroom tiles, an... more
Feed sacks are the perfect example of a utilitarian product turned into something beautiful. Author Linzee Kull McCray explores the history of the humble feed sack, from a plain burlap or cotton sack to exuberantly patterned and colourful bags that were repurposed into frocks, aprons and quilts by thrifty housewives in the first half of the 20th century. Extensive imagery and at-scale reproductions of these fabrics create an inspiring sourcebook of pattern and colour—and offer a welcome visit to a slower-paced way of life. more
Don't have time to read the top Fabric books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.
Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:
- Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
- Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
- Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.
The simple act of sharing 21/2 x 31/2 pieces of art, known as Artist Trading Cards, knows no boundaries and brings like-souls together like no other form of communication can. Unique statements, passionate emotions and favorite interests can all be expressed in these miniature works of art that are always traded, never sold.
"Artist Trading Cards Workshop" will not only teach you how to create your own cards, combining one or more of the 25+ techniques demonstrated in step-by-step photos, it will also share the ins and outs of trading,... more
Following the incredible success of the slow food movement, the slow fashion trend is now gaining momentum, with more and more consumers buying locally produced clothing and homewares created using sustainable methods and artisanal techniques. Natural Color explores the full spectrum of seasonal plant dyes, using nature as a color library. Unlike its competitors, Natural Color... more
Author Libby Moore teaches basic embroidery stitches and how to choose materials, and shares original patterns with easy-to-remove perforated pages.
Thread Folk Includes:
• 15 embroidery projects
• Step-by step instructions & modern patterns
• 14 different stitches, from straight stitch to lazy daisy
• Techniques to stitch on clothes, shoes, tote bags, and pillows
Thread Folk also features Artist Collaborations, a series of projects based on... more
When journalist Meg Lukens Noonan learned of an unthinkably expensive, entirely handcrafted overcoat that a fourth-generation tailor had made for one of his longtime clients, she set off on an adventure to understand its provenance, and from that impulse unspooled rich and colorful stories about its components, the centuries-old bespoke industry and its traditions, and the master craftsmen whose trade is an art form.
In The Coat Route, Noonan pieces together the... more
Learn how to create fabric art with incredible depth and meaning in Layered, Tattered & Stitched. Mixed-media artist Ruth Rae expands your creativity as she shows you how to singe, tear, stain, later and stitch fabric and paper for amazing texture and visual interest. Explore both traditional and atypical sewing techniques combined with collage, beading and photo transfers to make gifts, wall hangings, accessories and more.
Layered, Tattered & Stitched will inspire you with:
more
Don't have time to read the top Fabric books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.
Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:
- Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
- Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
- Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.
When another girl has already purchased the most perfect birthday gift for Chloe’s friend Emma, Chloe decides she’ll make a present—something you can’t buy in a store. But crafting isn’t easy, and it’s beginning to look like she won’t have a great idea in time. Fortunately, with a good doodle session and a whole lot of glitter to inspire her, Chloe figures out just the thing to save the day—and with a little help from her trusty glue gun, she just might save a friendship,... more
Starting with the basics of choosing and preparing the dress form for draping, the book advances through pinning, trimming, and clipping, and creating shape using darts and tucks, to adding volume using pleats and gathers, and handling complex... more
Compiled by the creator of the cult blog of the same name (http://printpattern.blogspot.com/), this book documents the work of the best surface designers from around the world and features products that have been embellished with a surface print or pattern, including... more
Turn gorgeous Jelly Rolls into fabulous quilts, each of which can be made from just one roll.
Features unique advice on making the most of this fresh approach to fabric, as well as tips on adapting the quilts to your existing stashes.
Step-by-step instructions and easy-to-follow diagrams ensure that untying your beautifully rolled fabric will be the first step to quilting heaven! less
One simple technique and 11 projects that are fun for everyone; projects include patterns that are perfect for precuts
Piece most quilt tops in just a few hours--ideal when you need a quick gift
Start with precut strips or cut strips of any width from your stash for endless possibilities less
Choose from a stunning variety of designs for yourself and your home, including bags, accessories, clothing, decorations, gifts and soft toys.
The colour palette used includes beautiful shades of lavender, pink, teal, turquoise, green and blue.
Easy-to-follow instructions, gorgeous colour photos and delightful illustrations accompany each project. less
Don't have time to read the top Fabric books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.
Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:
- Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
- Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
- Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.
Artist and teacher Gwen Hedley shares a series of exercises designed to explore line’s potential as well as develop your creativity. Drawn to Stitch also covers line and mark-making tools, materials, and processes, including printing and mixed-media techniques. Gwen explores stitch, explaining how to interpret different... more
Keith and Mark of Mini Moderns refer to their design ethos as 'pattern with a story'. In this beautifully photographed book, they bring you the stories behind their designs and show you how you can use pattern and mid-century style to tell a story in your own home.
Under the Influence explains their "pattern with a story" design ethos and sources of inspiration, ranging from childhood memories to commentaries on popular... more
Raw, friendly and easily altered, plaster is perhaps the most versatile art medium you have yet to encounter. Beautiful in its luminosity, yet open to receiving a multitude of alterations, plaster will easily agree to being painted, carved, cast and sculpted. Stephanie Lee and Judy Wise will walk you through 24 step-by-step projects and will introduce you to a variety of plaster forms. The techniques you'll be introduced to will inspire you to go on and develop your... more
Don't have time to read the top Fabric books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.
Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:
- Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
- Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
- Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.
Julie Kraulis takes readers on a journey through gorgeous patterns and their origins--from the mountains of Switzerland to the green grass of... more
8 projects inspired by antique quilts, made with today’s reproduction fabrics
Gain insight into the social, technological, and fashion influences on past generations of quiltmakers
Learn to identify vintage fabrics and quilts
Learn to choose reproduction fabrics and patterns less
Long before today's eco-friendly philosophy of "reduce, reuse, recycle" entered America's collective consciousness, furoshiki—the Japanese method of wrapping things with fabric—flourished as a time-honored and practical art form. In Wrapping With Fabric, Etsuko Yamada—born into a long-line of furoshiki makers in Kyoto—explains the "one cloth, many uses" ideology behind the craft, the etiquette of color and the craft's fascinating history. From there, she shares the... more
Choose from eight color-drenched projects, including a wrap, lampshade cover, tea cozy, bag, pillow, and more. A special section on the language of flowers is sure to make your own creative ideas blossom! less
Sew Barbie this cute wardrobe of 24 stylish outfits. Sew clothes for every day: jeans and a tie-waist shirt for a picnic in the country, a fleecy jumper and pants for skiing, a bikini, towel and sunhat for the beach or dungarees for DIY. Or create outfits for special occasions, such as a floral cocktail dress, A-line wedding dress or a formal lacy dress for the... more
Don't have time to read the top Fabric books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.
Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:
- Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
- Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
- Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.
There is a major disconnect between what we wear and our knowledge of its impact on land, air, water, labor, and human health. Even those who value access to safe, local, nutritious food have largely overlooked the production of fiber, dyes, and the chemistry that forms the backbone of modern textile production. While humans are 100 percent reliant on their second skin, it's common to think little about the biological and human cultural context from which... more
The book contains storage solutions and sewing accessories to equip every sewing space. The projects range from practical storage solutions such as tool rolls, carry cases and cutting mat carriers to innovative ways to keep a sewing space tidy, such as a handy armchair storage device and an ironing station, complete with board cover and handy hanging pouch for storing a mini iron... more
Don't have time to read the top Fabric books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.
Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:
- Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
- Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
- Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.