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Handpainting Fabric by Michele Newman & Margaret
Allyson Handpainting Fabric is somewhat misleading as a title because the book contains so much more than the title implies. The authors bring skills from different backgrounds to create a classy and informative book. Michelle Newman, a textile and crafts designer, brings her talent and experience with a myriad of paint and dye products, and Margaret Allyson contributes years of experience as an editor of several national arts and crafts magazines. The result is an attractive, informative text with well-written, clear instructions, and beautiful photographs of examples of the various techniques. A thorough discussion of fabrics and their properties starts the book off; along with information about paints, dyes and other supplies. I am happy to report that their approach to technique is to get the best possible results from the simplest process. If you want an exhaustive explanation of the most complex dye processes, you will have to look elsewhere. A succinct overview of design principles follows. I found this chapter covering sources of inspiration, helpful habits for the fiber artist, elements and principles of design, and color and design layout, to be very well done. The discussion of freehand painting is encouraging to those who believe that they “cannot draw.” The authors believe that drawing is only one of the many methods of expression, and introduce a variety of ways to achieve dynamic results. Discharging color from fabric, as well as adding color, is explained; along with a description of ways to make multiples. This opens up the world of stamping, stenciling, printing and silk-screening. These processes are clearly outlined and illustrated. Also covered is using resists and special effects, such as salt, alcohol, “shortcut shibori,” pleating, “faux airbrushing,” layering and quilting. Of course, any discussion of embellishing fabric extends to the finishing details, such as fringe, tassels, beading, and decorative stitching. Handpainting Fabric is particularly well suited for those who are just starting to color and manipulate fabric, as well as, those looking for new ideas and who appreciate time saving shortcuts. Replete with energy and money saving tips, Handpainting Fabric has great appeal to those of us who value results, and do not believe that a process has to be intricate and lengthy to be of value. Review by Diana Norris |
