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Anni Albers On Weaving
The classic book on the art and history of weaving--now expanded and in full color
Written by one of the twentieth century's leading textile artists, this splendidly illustrated book is a luminous meditation on the art of weaving, its history, its tools and techniques, and its implications for modern design. First published in 1965, On Weaving bridges the transition between handcraft and the machine-made, highlighting the essential importance of material awareness and the creative leaps that can occur when design problems are tackled by hand.
With her focus on materials and handlooms, Anni Albers discusses how technology and mass production place limits on creativity and problem solving, and makes the case for a renewed embrace of human ingenuity that is particularly important today. Her lucid and engaging prose is illustrated with a wealth of rare and extraordinary images showing the history of the medium, from hand-drawn diagrams and close-ups of pre-Columbian textiles to material studies with corn, paper, and the typewriter, as well as illuminating examples of her own work.
Now available for a new generation of readers, this expanded edition of On Weaving updates the book's original black-and-white illustrations with full-color photos, and features an afterword by Nicholas Fox Weber and essays by Manuel Cirauqui and T'ai Smith that shed critical light on Albers and her career.
Written by one of the twentieth century's leading textile artists, this splendidly illustrated book is a luminous meditation on the art of weaving, its history, its tools and techniques, and its implications for modern design. First published in 1965, On Weaving bridges the transition between handcraft and the machine-made, highlighting the essential importance of material awareness and the creative leaps that can occur when design problems are tackled by hand.
With her focus on materials and handlooms, Anni Albers discusses how technology and mass production place limits on creativity and problem solving, and makes the case for a renewed embrace of human ingenuity that is particularly important today. Her lucid and engaging prose is illustrated with a wealth of rare and extraordinary images showing the history of the medium, from hand-drawn diagrams and close-ups of pre-Columbian textiles to material studies with corn, paper, and the typewriter, as well as illuminating examples of her own work.
Now available for a new generation of readers, this expanded edition of On Weaving updates the book's original black-and-white illustrations with full-color photos, and features an afterword by Nicholas Fox Weber and essays by Manuel Cirauqui and T'ai Smith that shed critical light on Albers and her career.
272 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1965
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
September 12, 2019
An erudite and informed discussion of the art of weaving with a wealth of examples. Includes a section of Annie Albers’ own work, which is simply gorgeous. To then read her boundless admiration for Peruvian weaving is to look at this art with new eyes.
May 4, 2020
Great insights mixed with a little history and instruction. This isn't a 'how to weave' book, Albers provides a brief overview of the evolution of weaving along with basic lessons on process. Beautiful illustrations and diagrams throughout. Essential for textile artists/designers, but not a pretentious read that would dissuade those without any knowledge on the subject.
August 19, 2020
So, I'm not a weaver, but I've seen this cited as a must-read for fiber artists. It was mentioned towards the beginning that even non-weavers could find value in some of the things discussed. While I know the terms weft, warp, and a few others, the rest of the jargon, especially the chapter with all the numbers, meant nothing to me. Abstract language, ugh. My eyes started to glaze over a bit there. I'm sure it's interesting for weavers, but if you don't have a history in it, then it's tricky to follow.
For non-weavers, it only gets interesting (relevant?) from chapter 8 onwards. I will say though, I was less interested in the essays at the end. (Some of the information in the first was repeated in the second.)
I'm glad I've read it to know what it's about, but honestly, chapters 8-10 is the only bit I'd want to revisit.
For non-weavers, it only gets interesting (relevant?) from chapter 8 onwards. I will say though, I was less interested in the essays at the end. (Some of the information in the first was repeated in the second.)
I'm glad I've read it to know what it's about, but honestly, chapters 8-10 is the only bit I'd want to revisit.
September 21, 2022
Somewhat over my head because I haven't worked on a harness loom, only plain weave on my rigid heddle, but this volume is a wonderful meditation on weaving and craft. The beautiful techniques through the ages are illustrated in big color photographs, and it gives you a real appreciation for weaving as an ancient and tactile activity.
June 7, 2022
This is quite an old title. It is more of a art book, perhaps even a coffee table one. There are some historical details, and plates. The term itself, is no longer often used. I will need to look for some other technical details. Recommended.
November 17, 2017
This is a wonderful book: classic text by Anni Albers, gorgeous plates, and engaging essays. You don't have to be a weaver to love this one. Highly recommended.
September 21, 2021
Read it for a class project so I skimmed through a couple chapters, but overall an interesting essay
October 16, 2021
On reading
Annie Albers’ book, “On Weaving,” opened my brain to the meaning and physicality of the process, and to its inherent simplicity and power.
Annie Albers’ book, “On Weaving,” opened my brain to the meaning and physicality of the process, and to its inherent simplicity and power.
November 19, 2021
this edition is glorious
it will remain on my shelves as long as i have shelves
& undoubtedly become one of the books to which i return
it will remain on my shelves as long as i have shelves
& undoubtedly become one of the books to which i return
Want to read
September 3, 2022Source: Self Research on "pattern"
March 16, 2023
the passages on touch are just so beautiful!
April 16, 2024
A fascinating book of essays about looms and weaving
January 5, 2011
Great book by Anni Albers. Examples of ancient weaving, her work as well as sketches. I really like the way she wrote, seems as though she is speaking directly to you as a friend.
September 24, 2011
A must have for anyone who loves the beauty of Anni Albers work.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews