Mark-Making Through the Seasons: Textile Art Inspirations and Techniques

A guide to creating thoughtful works of textile art by connecting with the local natural world. Renowned quilter and textile artist Helen Parrott teaches techniques such as mark-making, hand and machine stitch, appliqué, blackwork, and dyeing. The book is divided into seasons, with projects and step-by-step techniques to help you create unique artworks.

Format: Hardback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 01 August 2019
Publisher: Pavilion Books

Discover the transformative power of connecting with your local natural world to create stunning textile art pieces. Renowned quilter and textile artist Helen Parrott takes you on a journey of creativity and practicality, offering a comprehensive guide filled with inspiring projects and step-by-step techniques. Whether you're a textile student or a professional seeking to expand your skills, this book is a treasure trove of knowledge.

In her captivating book, Helen Parrott delves into the boundless possibilities of your local surroundings, inspiring you to unlock the creative potential within. Drawing upon the Slow Stitch movement, she guides you through the processes and techniques used to create beautiful textile artworks that capture the essence of your environment.

Through the lens of the seasons, Helen teaches you how to be in tune with your surroundings, recognizing the subtle signs and characteristics that change with each passing season. From the first whispers of spring to the vibrant hues of autumn, she empowers you to capture the essence of your locality, whether it's the bustling city or the tranquil countryside.

With a focus on personal expression, Helen encourages you to connect to your own locality on a deeper level, exploring its specific seasonal aspects to create a personal and meaningful cycle of textile art. Each artwork will be unique, reflecting the unique signs and characteristics of your chosen location.

The book is divided into seasons, each offering a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. From mastering the basics of hand and machine stitch techniques to exploring free-form stitching, chain stitch, corded quilting, appliqué, blackwork, and dyeing, Helen provides a comprehensive foundation for your textile art journey. As you progress, the techniques become more complex, culminating in intricate pieced textiles and collages.

Helen also delves into the art of working with dot and line, repeating patterns, light and shadow, color (and the absence of color), plant structures, and people in landscapes. By incorporating these elements, you'll be able to create textiles that evoke a sense of depth and emotion.

In the final chapter, Helen consolidates the techniques you've learned throughout the book, showcasing finished works from her exhibitions and the Bradford Textile Archive. These examples serve as a testament to the endless possibilities that await you when you embrace the power of your local surroundings.

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced textile artist, this book is a must-have for anyone who seeks to infuse their creations with a sense of nature and personal connection. So, grab your needle and thread, and let Helen Parrott guide you on a journey of creativity and discovery as you create thoughtful works of textile art that celebrate the beauty of your local world.

Weight: 770g
Dimension: 226 x 284 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781849945790