Region by region, the book provides details of local history, particular textile traditions, materials, dyes, special forms of decoration, and information on current practice. The variety is stunning, from cloths of cotton, hemp, linen, and wool to sumptuous velvets and silks; from techniques of quilting, felting, beading, and knitting to block-printing, tie-dyeing, and hand-weaving on a range of looms.

Specially taken color photographs, portraits of weavers in action, and rare archival material complete a remarkable visual panorama. Together with a glossary and a guide to textile collections around the world, this comprehensive survey provides a wealth of information and will be invaluable to anyone interested in the rich art of textiles, costume, or craft. 626 color and 15 black-and-white photographs and illustrations