Weaving: Structure and Substance

摘要

Any book by Ann Richards is going to be thoroughly researched and this is no exception. The introduction - The Interplay of Material and Structure - emphasizes the tactile properties that emerge from the interaction of material and structure. Part One shows examples in nature that are inspirational for woven ideas. Part Two highlights material resources of fibres and yarns, including the use and effects of S and Z twist yarns, high twist yarns, sett variations, and variety in yarn thickness, before diving into plain weave and twills, illustrating the impact of floats in warp and/or weft, and double and triple cloth. Part Three examines designing for fabric, such as pleats, change of weave emphasis, gauze, lace, transparency, and double-sided fabrics as well as 'off the grid'forms such as honeycomb, differential shrinkage, waffle weaves, and using twist direction to shape fabrics. Part Four is about designing through making, with a focus on the reflectiveness and to-ing and fro-ing of ideas that is required to be successful during the process of inspiration to completion, whether samples or scaling up to a full-sized piece. This is not a guide on how to weave. This is an invitation to consider deeply every element in your weaving toolbox, mental and physical, to create intentional and exciting fabric, with inspirational images from other weavers.