Textile Arts by Margo Singer and Mary Spyrou, softback published by A&C Black, ISBN 0-7136-5716-2, price 14.99 available from www.acblack.com
This book fully explores some of the techniques passed down through generations to decorate textiles. The mainly black and white illustrations demonstrate techniques for embroidery including shisha mirror work, applique including mola work, tie and dye with examples of tritik, batik and other wax resist techniques, pleating, ruching and rouleaux. For each technique there are instructions. However, I found some of these unclear. I still feel this is a good book for highlighting the techniques and methods of textile decoration. The techniques are mainly from Asia, where garments are richly decorated. The colourful mola work featured on the cover is from Panama.
Each chapter surveys the textile traditions of many cultures. The projects are interesting and easy to work. This book should enable you to master these techniques and to keep them alive.