Books!

My friend Leslie was liquidating a personal library and I got a windfall.

Most of the books focused on woven rugs and tapestries, but I culled out those that spoke to me.

The images and patterns come from many countries and different cultures, but I found the overlap of concept and design fascinating. Click any image to enlarge.

Color - The Story of Dyes and Pigments. Love the cover on this one!





Inside "The Red Dyes"





Mud Cloth from Mali Africa, all designs are created by hand painting patterns with mud dyes

This book is incredible; I can't wait to sit down and spend more time with it. It gives examples of patchwork and applique' throughout the world, and each culture has its own style, interpretation and design, yet there are wonderful overlaps.

African leather patchwork, early 20th century worn by Liberian chief.
Patchwork and applique' was a symbol of power and prestige.



Quilting, Patchwork and Applique': A World Guide





Egyptian applique' cushion



Egyptian cushion produced for tourist trade



Woven Coverlets of Norway



Norwegian Square-Weave coverlets

The narrative says: "A variation of this technique is found in India, the Middle East, north Africa and eastern Europe and the native populations of Peru, Mexico and the southwestern Native Americans. In many cases the durable and decorative saddle blankets, rugs, bags, wall hangings and coverlets created from this weave show a remarkable similarity, even in geographically diverse areas." - They call it 'cultural borrowing'.

Coiled wool pots from southwest Iran

American Coverlets and Their Weavers



Seamless woven coverlet, 88" x 82", 1845

The coverlets in this book are jaw-droppingly beautiful, all the more so when I think about the planning and skill that went into them.

It's true what they say - there's a world of inspiration out there. These pictures barely scratch the surface. Just had to share!