Book comments / recommendations

I only know/have the first, which is more or less a standard learning "tool" in designer courses over here. Lots of photos and very comprehensive.

I've got the Jennie Rayment one, and also her Tucked up in Bed one. Very comprehensive instructions - very step by step. Incidently her choice of fabric is the UK definition of Calico (ie plain woven cotton) as opposed to the US one which would be Muslin. She even tells you how to wash and dry the finished product.

I went to one of her hilarious talks a couple of years ago, which was followed by an afternoon workshop. She certainly had us working - especially as it was such a short time and there was a lot to cover.

I think Pat on the Hill used her technique in her prize winning Mini at Malvern.

I've borrowed her creative Tucks and Textures book, which I am loving. Her instructions actually make sense (as opposed to a couple of other similar books which made no sense whatsoever to me).

Sarah

I have all Jennie Rayment's books, Sarah (except perhaps one?). She does work mainly in techniques, rather than project items. There are examples through the book, of course; but the main focus is on 'how to do'. I found that when I first read a page, it made no sense! but that was reading it in the abstract. When I re-read it, with a piece of fabric in my hand, and I read it out loud to myself! then it was perfectly straightforward. I do love working with these textured things. In her later books (which, of course you will only get if you become addicted to them!) she moves on to colour - not just the off white calico/muslin. So, although the first book is virtually all in cream, it is certainly possible to move on to colour. In fact, the little quilt I am working on at the moment in this style, is made of various cream on creams, rather than plain cream; and I have a lovely vivid colour for sashing.

I am afraid I don't know anything about the Colette Wolff book. .

In message , Sarah Dixon writes

Yes, those were Jennie's techniques, Sally! She does move into colour in, I think, her third book (I think I missed the fourth) but in her latest book there is a whole lot of colour. It is beautiful.

In message , Sally Swindells writes

I have a book of fabric manipulation that was published in 1948. Using those techniques in quilting hadn't crossed my mind but it's a very interesting idea. My book was written by Nelle Weymouth Link. Polly

I have both books. The 1st one by Colette Wolfe would be my favorite if I had to choose!

I asked a friend who did a textiles degree a few years ago. She has both books, as well as another that is in Japanese. She recommended the first book you listed too.

Estelle, why do you prefer the Wolff book? I am intrigued by the various ways of getting texture into fabric, but looking at these books on Amazon.com, they just look incomprehensible.

Sunny

Hi Sunny. I think the Colette W one has more varied techniques with a greater variety of choice. Much of Jenny's is covered and more! IMHO. Hope this helps, my tutor aggrees too btw!! lol

I love the Jennie Rayment books. And was fortunate enough to hear her speak in Houston. She is a real hoot and a half!!! The first book is very "English" and has caused some confusion in the States. The instructions are great.

Pati, > I am looking at buying one of these two books - has anybody any comments