Hands on Dyeing (Hands on S.) [Paperback]

Betsy Blumenthal (Author), Kathryn Kreider (Author)

Book Description

Series: Hands on S. | Publication Date: December 1, 1988

It's all here: dip dyeing, overdyeing, color gradations and variegation, fold dyeing, batik, fabric painting, and more. Includes complete project instructions.

Product Details

• Paperback: 111 pages
• Publisher: Interweave Press (December 1, 1988)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 093402636X
• ISBN-13: 978-0934026369
• Product Dimensions: 10.6 x 8.1 x 0.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 9.6 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.1 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (7 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #690,855 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

18 of 18 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The Definitive Guide, October 28, 2008

By 

Taryl J. Giessel "Taryl Giessel" (Eagle River, AK USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Hands on Dyeing (Hands on S.) (Paperback)

This is the best semi-technical reference on dyeing fiber and yarn I have found. Less of a technique book and more of a process manual, it covers everything a novice dyer needs to know to become proficient in quality, reproducible dyeing results.

This book isn't touting art yarns, and yet anyone interested in advanced, creative techniques needs a solid foundation. I have found the authors give just enough technical information to shore up the knowledge of the dyer without overwhelming them. They match it with quality basic skills from safety and dye mixing process to types of dye and finishing techniques and from this platform almost any advanced method can be employed.

I am of the opinion that full creativity cannot be had unless the basics are understood - this text opens up enough solid theory that a dyer can go forth confidently and have an extensive knowledge with which to create their own works of art.

One key thing of value to note about this text is the dye measuring method - though it is technical they have the EASIEST, lowest-tech process for creating good, reproducible results. They have a good system for standard volume measurements instead of weight - so only a normal teaspoon measuring set and some pyrex measuring cups are needed - not a fancy balance scale or electronic gram scale. This allows home dyers to be reasonably accurate without a huge outlay of money or complicated dye concentration measurements to be learned. For this alone I give "Hands on Dyeing" five stars.

The balance between a solid technical reference and accessibility to a novice dyer is one few books on the subject can match. And those that do are often entirely focused on fabric design and gloss over or ignore yarn. I am pleased to say that is absolutely not the case here. Furthermore, the advice is just generic enough that it can be easily applied to things not touched upon - like dyeing wood, paper, or bulk fiber - with confidence and ease.

HIGHLY recommend this text - a must for any hobbyist and a wonderful core reference for professional textile artists.

36 of 46 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars My fabric dying bible, May 11, 1998

By 

[e-mail] (New Richmond, WI) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Hands on Dyeing (Hands on S.) (Paperback)

I have used this book over the past several years, and find I can't be without it. I have worn it out, and it is stained with dye. It is time to buy a new one soon!!!!! This book is the best.

Bear Paw Quilting Studio

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

2.0 out of 5 stars Lots of projects, but not enough dye info, March 3, 2011

By 

Marcus - See all my reviews

This review is from: Hands on Dyeing (Hands on S.) (Paperback)

This book is 110 pages and most of it is taken up by detailed descriptions of various moderate and advanced multi-colored dyeing projects. The important information on the various types of dyes and basic dyeing techniques is brief. Since the book was published in 1988, many of the brands of dyes and sources are no longer valid. If you are looking for a book that will tell you the best dyes and current brands to use on various natural and synthetic fabrics and blends, this book isn't it. It is fine if you can buy the book for $5 or just want some dyeing project ideas. However, for fabric dyeing fundamentals, there are better, newer books. There is also a lot of information now available on the Net and on the dye manufacturers' web sites about dyeing techniques and the brands to use for various fabrics.