The Handweaver's Pattern Directory [Spiral-bound]

Anne Dixon (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: October 1, 2007

A comprehensive introduction to the tools, equipment, fibers, and yarns used with four-shaft looms, this reference features patterns for 600 different weaves, including twill, zigzag, diamond, herringbone, and block. Color photographs and large-scale drawings allow weavers to closely examine the details, and the compact size and lay-flat binding is convenient for keeping near the loom. A handbook that is essential for all four-shaft weavers, this manual includes weaving basics, specialized projects organized by degree of difficulty, finishing techniques, resources, and a glossary of terms.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"Highly recommended for public libraries and textile collections in academic institutions. If you can buy only one book on handweaving this year, this is the one."  —Library Journal, starred review

About the Author

Anne Dixon is a weaver, a teacher, and a writer. She has published booklets about inkle weaving and has contributed articles to a number American publications, including Handwoven. She is a Guild member of the Association of Weavers, Spinners, and Dyers and a founding member of the Braid Society.

Product Details

• Spiral-bound: 256 pages
• Publisher: Interweave Press (October 1, 2007)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1596680407
• ISBN-13: 978-1596680401
• Product Dimensions: 9.5 x 7.6 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.9 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (38 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #44,581 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

58 of 58 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A 'must have' book for any weaver, January 12, 2008

By 

Barbara B. (Oregon, USA) - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: The Handweaver's Pattern Directory (Spiral-bound)

I seldom buy books new, full priced. I'm far too cheap for that (and besides, I'd rather spend my money on yarn or fiber!). But I am SO very glad I splurged on this one and pre-ordered it so I'd get it as soon as it came out.

It is an incredible resource for weavers. Each of the patterns is accompanied by a sharp photo of the sample, with "close up" views of many. The directions are clear and in keeping with standard Interweave publications (as in Handwoven). There are short but valuable chapters on general weaving, supplies, yarns, etc., although the emphasis -- and the value -- is on the patterns.

I've been a weaver for about 20 years and I own a fairly substantial library of weaving books and have owned, at one time or another, nearly every issue of Handwoven and Weaver's Journal magazines. Yet there were still many patterns in this book I do not think I've ever seen.

The patterns are categorized by types, from simple tabby and twills to complex distorted weft , bronson and even hand manipulated weaves. All are threaded for a four-shaft loom. See "customer images" under the photo above for a scan of a sample page.

The physical layout and design of the book is excellent as well. With the heavy duty spiral binding, it lays flat for easy reference and there is even a pull out "flap" in the back with the "legend" for the patterns, so you don't have to flip back and forth to figure out the drafts (although they're very intuitive and standard).

This book should serve me well for my next 20 years of weaving, which means it will cost me slightly more than a buck a year! That's an investment well worth making.

26 of 26 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars an Amazing Book, January 13, 2008

By 

Shana Banana (USA) - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: The Handweaver's Pattern Directory (Spiral-bound)

This was an amazing directory for such a low price. Other directories (for other crafts) have been so expensive that only schools or libraries could afford them. Very complete, the photos were excellent. Each photo was a closeup and came with detailed directions. Some of the complex weaves had a photo of the reverse side too.

Other books seem to make you think that to be a creative or complete weaver, you need more than 4 shafts. This book proved that is not true.

This book is perfect for a beginning or advanced weaver.

18 of 19 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars 6-stars! Fabulous book!, January 17, 2008

By 

Fiber Nut (NY United States) - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: The Handweaver's Pattern Directory (Spiral-bound)

I was a bit wary of another pattern book for weavers. There are so many. This one is a keeper. Well organized, tons of info and tips. Excellent photos without taking up the whole book (insets show close-ups). Rather than read paragraphs full of praise from me, buy this book. It's bound to go on to many printings. It's a classic.