Beginning with studio practices and safety rules, this information-packed handbook is appropriate for both newcomers and experienced dyers but assumes that readers have a serious interest in textile design. An overview of dyeing starts with fibers and fabrics and discusses all aspects of the dyes favored by textile studios—fiber reactive, acid, vat, and disperse—before explaining discharging, screen printing, monoprinting, stamping, stenciling, resist dyeing, dévoré, and painting. Would-be fabric artists are advised along the way to identify a personal approach to dyeing—free spirit? rule-follower?—and color photographs of work by today's top fiber artists elucidate prevailing styles. Recipes and techniques are accompanied by step-by-step instructions with photographs, and a concealed spiral binding allows the book to lie flat. Ten appendices include a worksheet for recording chemicals, procedures, and costs for all projects; a guide to washing fabric; descriptions of stock solutions, thickeners, and steaming; a metric conversion table; and a guide to water temperatures. 

"The definitive guide to applying color to fabric using dye materials, paints, printing and resist techniques."  —MonstersandCritics.com

"Beautiful professional photographs of dyed fabrics and art pieces are spread throughout the book."  —Paula Burch's All About Hand Dyeing

"Brackmann's professional and well-designed end results don't look like a technique-exploring craft project. . . . It will inspire you to immediately take up some form of surface design."  —The Shuttle Scuttle

"A visual as well as intellectual feast."  —Textile Fibre Forum

"One of the best books we've seen on the topic of altering fabrics through dyeing, printing, and painting."  —Quilting Arts Magazine

"It will teach you to use the right tools and techniques to add your own designs to silk, cotton, wool, and more."  —Quilter's Newsletter Magazine

"Detailed instruction in the many techniques of dyeing and embellishing cloth . . . profusely illustrated with vivid process shots."  —American Craft

"Looking for nonstop inspiration? Interweave Press' The Surface Designer's Handbook should be the first stop on your journey."  —Quilter's World

Holly Brackmann is a professor of textiles and art history at Mendocino College whose designs have appeared in Handwoven; Surface Design Journal; Surface Design Newsletter; Shuttle, Spindle & Dyepot; and Weavers. She lives in Ukiah, California.

Imprint: Interweave Press
Distributor: Independent Pub Group
Publication Date: 10-28-2006
Pages: 144
Measurements: 11.00in X 8.50in X 0.36in X 2.17lb