The Techniques of Sprang: Plaiting on Stretched Threads

by Peter Collingwood

A groundbreaking study first published more than twenty years ago and long unavailable, this is the definitive work on the fabric-making process known as sprang. For at least 3,500 years, this finger-controlled technique has been used where a stretch fabric was required, but its revival today is based mainly on its many decorative and structural possibilities. In addition to chapters on the definition, history, and terminology of sprang and equipment and setup, the book covers the immense range of sprang techniques, illustrated with 160 diagrams and photographs of samples. A practical book for those who want to learn and explore the technique, it is also valuable for textile students and researchers. (71/2 X 91/2, 324 pages, b&w photos, diagrams)

300 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1974

About the author

Peter Collingwood was the pre-eminent British artist weaver of the past 50 years. His technical and aesthetic innovations have been appreciated around the world, most notably in his Macrogauze wall-hangings, in which his traditional skill and visual abstraction work in perfect harmony. A master craftsman and the author of several works on weaving, his work as a teacher and his generous spirit had a profound and lasting impact on generations of students.

Collingwood wrote five highly influential books of which the first, Techniques of Rug Weaving (1968), is probably the best known. His personal favourite - and the one that gives the most insight into his inquiring mind - is The Maker's Hand (1988), in which he analyses, with diagrams and photo-graphs, 100 woven structures from around the world.

He was awarded the OBE in 1974.

Adapted from TheGuardian.co.uk