Making a Life: Twenty-five Years of Hooking Rugs

by Deanne Fitzpatrick

Celebrated textile artist Deanne Fitzpatrick learned early that traditional rug-hooking is so much more than just making mats for old houses. This intricate art form has given her the chance to speak without words. It has built her a supportive community, a successful business, and an international reputation. But most of all, hooking rugs has allowed Deanne to live a life she loves.

Reflecting on her twenty-five-year career, Deanne shares lessons gleaned both at the frame and away from her studio. Whether it's dealing with an artistic block, or balancing running a business and raising a family, Deanne has navigated it all with frank humour and grace. Containing over 75 full-colour photos of projects past and present, Making a Life is an ode to the joys of leading a creative life.

192 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2019

Reviews

[ATLANTIC BOOK REVIEWS · Rating 5 out of 5]

See review on Facebook Page ATLANTIC BOOK REVIEWS - Reading and Reviewing Atlantic Canadian Books.

[Jamie Bee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Visually Stunning Look at Life and Rug Hooking

I've been making kit latch hook rugs since I was a young girl. Back then, I appreciated doing something tactile—even if I didn't have that word to describe it—because I was a young person more usually engaged in intellectual pursuits. This is why I was drawn to reviewing this book, and I am so glad that I chose it. First, it is just simply gorgeous. This woman is an artist; she creates rugs of amazing depth and beauty. Before viewing this book, I wouldn't even have thought that what she creates is even possible. The book is just a visual delight. Along with these rugs, she also has little stories about life, art, and making rugs. These were well written and give insight into the creator as well as art, both in general and hers in particular. If you're interested in books about the creative process, you will find this one a delight. And if you like to hook rugs, you will be inspired.

I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.

My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com

[Witch-at-Heart · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was initially disappointed in this book because it is not instructional. However the rugs are so incredibly beautiful and expressive I hav fallen in love with the beauty of the artwork and detail that goes into this art form. I honestly had no idea that rug hooking could be so beautiful it is almost like a canvas come to life and I would literally hang these as artwork in my hone. I am so glad I had the pleasure of reading this book it is truly inspirational and I have fallen in love with what I never realized is a complicated and beautiful labor of love. I received this book from NetGalley for an honest review. I very much enjoyed it.

[Madelyne! · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't hook rugs, but I love her writing !