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Contents, April 28, 2010
Geometric Design in Weaving
by Else Regensteiner
1986
"Weavers of any level will be enriched as this world-famous weaver combines the study and practice of graphic design with the exploration and execution of weaving techniques. The author's intention on writing this book was to explore the possibilities of geometric design from the weaver's and artist's point of view. The weaver and textile artist will find abstract shapes most valuable and, I hope, will gain inspiration, stimulation, and awareness from their transformation into double weaves, pattern weaves, tapestries, rugs and hangings.
In an effort to make the weaver aware of the many shapes and their possibilities and potentials as an incentive to the successful designing of beautiful textiles, the book has been organized as follows:
Part I :presents design information and the art and science of classical proportions.
Chapter 1 acquaints the reader with basic shapes, their relationships and variations.
Chapter 2 explains the many ways in which drawings, cut-out paper and collages can be used for experimentation and as an aid in visualizing the effect the woven textile will present. Various methods suggest creative approaches that can be used to help the weaver select the right technique before final decisions are made. Assemblage of materials and construction of a tactile chart both further sensitivity for the feel and qualities of a great variety of materials and textures.
Chapter 3 in this section presents designs selected for their special interest and significance from the standpoint of their historic development and use through the ages, as well as for the beauty and versatility with which they can be applied in many woven interpretations. Meander, Paisley, and the Chilkat blanket are extensively explored within this context. One of the most fascinating aspects of design lies in the arrangement of proportions. Mathematicians and scientists have studied laws of symmetry and proportion in nature for many centuries and have transposed them into formulas that are employed by architects, painters, textile and graphic designers, and many of the most accomplished weavers.
Chapter 4 deals with such systems of design and proportion. Its study can open new vistas for weavers who need to arrange surface divisions for place mats and pillow tops, rugs, tapestries, wall hangings, or clothing.
Part II of this book presents a wide variety of weaver-controlled techniques by which geometric designs can be transformed into textiles of interest and beauty.
Chapters 5 and 6 present technical methods of rug and tapestry weaving and show many beautiful examples of ancient and contemporary origin for design inspiration. Chapter 7 concentrates on weaver- controlled methods of laid-in, pick-up, and double weaves and also explores the unusual technique of Karelian Red Pick.
Part III focus on loom-controlled techniques for the four and multi-harness loom weaver
chapters 8 and 9 offer many loom controlled weaves and patterns. Name drafts, blockweaves, damasks, and supplementary warps are explained with explicit drafts and drawings.
Chapter 10 Loom-controlled double weaves and three-dimensional structures
All chapters include clear photographs, diagrams and weavers drafts with precise explanations and directions. The book is well illustrated with 45 color and 205 black & white photographs as well as 102 diagrams & drafts. The author provides a good Bibliography, Glossary, Index as well as a collection of 10 study problems to allow the weaver to continue their exploration on this subject."
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2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Geometric Design in Weaving, by Else Regensteiner, February 12, 2011
This review is from: Geometric Design in Weaving (Hardcover)
Else Regensteiner shows the reader mathematical constructions of geometric shapes and proportions that can be used for well-proportioned woven designs. Then she shows some of the most beautiful textiles created using these shapes. She also shows methods of using paper to create designs before committing them to fiber. Drafts are included to show how to create the designs in weaving. Beautiful illustrations and photographs bring the designs to life.
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