Indonesian Textiles

by Michael Hitchcock

An illustrated guide and survey to traditional and modern Indonesian textile design.

192 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1991

Reviews

[Jillian · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recently reread this book in the light of my involvement with the Embroiderers' Guild. It is a terrific book, with chapters on Raw Materials, Traditional Looms, Resist-dye Methods, Decorative Weaving & Embroidery, Textiles in Society and Dress, Design and Colour. The narrative provides a history of the Indonesian archipelago with textile creation and trading as a theme. It is a lovely way to see the society. There are many parallels with the way textiles were at the heart of Greek and Ottoman culture - as well as the obvious links to India and China.

I found the section on design especially interesting this time around and will apply some of the motifs in future embroideries.

Anyone with an interest in textiles could use this book as an introduction to travel in Indonesia as well as to an understanding of Indonesian textiles. It is a lens through which to view the language, society and history of a rich and diverse culture.

[Sitha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have gained deeper knowledge by reading this book. It has given me various informations that I need about Indonesian textiles (types, methods of making, original/traditional usages) and their history.