Weaving Textiles That Shape Themselves

An inspirational and exciting book that explains the processes and potential of weaving high-twist yarns into fabrics that are transformed by washing

Weaving with high-twist yarns and contrasting materials can create fabrics with lively textures and elastic properties. Although these fabrics are flat on the loom, they are transformed by washing: water releases the energy of the different yarns and the fabrics "organize themselves" into crinkled or pleated textures. This fascinating book explains the processes and potential of this approach. With inspirational pieces, practical know-how, and advice about building on experience, it gives a broad introduction to designing with high-twist yarns. Techniques range from plain weave to more complex structures, so the book offers ideas for both beginners and experiences weavers. Yarn twists and weaves can also be varied across the fabric, so that rectangular pieces completely change their shape when washed. "Loom-to-body" clothing needing minimal cutting and sewing can emerge from a simple change of yarn or structure. These textiles can truly shape themselves.

Ann Richards trained and worked as a biologist before going on to study woven textiles; her background in biology has strongly influenced her textile work, which often draws on form and function in nature. Her work has been exhibited widely, and over the past 20 years she has lectured and given workshops in the UK, Europe, Canada, and the United States. In 1989 she won First Prize (MITI Award) at the 4th International Textile Design Contest in Tokyo.