Applique and Beyond by Annette Morgan and Bailey Curtis, softback published by Bailey Curtis. ISBN 0-9541419-2-X, price 10.99 plus 1.50 p&p from www.baileycurtis.com

This 32-page booklet is a feast of colour for the eyes. The two authors explain and explore their love of textiles with brilliant examples of their work. The book takes you through many methods of applique from simple basic to bonded, reverse, invisible and so much more. Bailey even has her own method. Each method is accompanied by step-by-step instructions and clear photography. The book then expands upon the subject by looking at key artists applique work, such as Alicia Merrett who works with colourful geometrics, Sylvia Grant and Val Holmes, Linda Kemshall’s work and inspirations, Janice Myers and Teresa Searle, Jan Mortimer’s ‘Tangled Roots’ pieces, Penny Maishman, Madelaine Millington’s hand-stitched, blanket fabric applique all giving great insight to the varied inspiration and techniques available. The booklet is completed with a resource list.

Dyeing to Colour by Bailey Curtis, softback spiral bound book, published by Bailey Curtis. ISBN 0-9541419-0-3, price 14.99 plus 1.50 p&p from www.baileycurtis.com

This book offers quick and easy ways to dye fabric such as microwave dyeing. Bailey explains the types of dye and which dye to use for types of natural and synthetic fabrics. There is a list of equipment needed for dyeing as well as health and safety regulations. 

There follows a number of quick methods for using the types of dye that are quite comprehensive. A hints and tips section, book list, suppliers complete the book. The 52-page book is a complete reference for quick dyeing methods. It is illustrated throughout with inspiring work.

Inspiration to Stitch by Bailey Curtis, softback booklet published by Bailey Curtis. ISBN 0-9541419-1-1, price 12.99 plus 1.50 p&p from www.baileycurtis.com

The first of two volumes taking an exciting look at 6 textile artists plus Bailey’s own work too. Each artist talks about their inspiration, interpretation and methods of work. 

This full colour 38-page booklet is a fascinating insight into each artist’s thought process and work. Sketchbooks are always exciting and the representations in this booklet are no exception. See the amazing collage produced by Jae Maries. Discover the varied influences upon the textile art of Sian Martin. The vibrant work of Sandra Meech, the colourful quilts of Annette Morgan, the distinctive fabric manipulation of Anne Raphael and the landscape-influenced textiles of Margaret M. Roberts. Bailey Curtis also talks about how landscapes near and far influence her work. The booklet is completed with a resource section and a book list with books chosen by each artist.

This booklet is full of inspiration and the work shown in the clear colour photographs is wonderful.

Inspiration Plus by Bailey Curtis, softback booklet published by Bailey Curtis. ISBN 0-9541419-3-8, price 12.99 plus 1.50 p&p from www.baileycurtis.com

This 38 page booklet is the latest from bailey Curtis. It takes a look at 6 more textile artists, who talk about their inspiration, interpretation and methods of work. This is a full colour booklet full of ideas and examples of work that will motivate you.

The included artists are Hilary Bower, Jenny Bullen, Sarah Burgess, Fenella Davies, Terrie Hitchcock and Laura Kemshall. Each artists has a four-page spread showcase and the text includes background information on each artists. You might have seen Hilary Bower’s fabulous purses, but this feature concentrates on Hilary’s aluminium pieces. Jenny Bullen shows some ideas for stitching in varied ways. See the architectural influence on Sarah Burgess’ work. Discover Fenella Davies’ fun approach. Learn about the influences behind the work of Terrie Hitchcock. Laura Kemshall is a well known quilt artist and you can see many samples of her work too. Finally Bailey Curtis shows her innovative methods. The booklet is the completed with some ideas for design based on simple shapes. Bailey includes a favourite books from each participant and there is a resources section too.