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The Art of Tapestry Weaving: A Complete Guide to Mastering the Techniques for Making Images with Yarn
Put aside those preconceptions of dusty, medieval tapestries hanging on castle walls! Tapestry weaving has a whole new look, and fiber enthusiasts of all levels are eager to try their hand at creating images with yarn. Rebecca Mezoff, a renowned teacher of contemporary tapestry weaving, shares her techniques in this in-depth guide to every aspect of the process, from developing a color palette to selecting yarn, warping the loom, and weaving the image. Crafters can choose from inexpensive tabletop and hand-held looms to larger floor looms. Detailed step-by-step photos and inspiring examples from a range of weaver-artists make this a one-stop resource for tapestry weaving how-to. This publication conforms to the EPUB Accessibility specification at WCAG 2.0 Level AA.
315 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 3, 2020
154 people are currently reading
167 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Mezoff
3 books3 followersRebecca Mezoff, author of the bestselling book, The Art of Tapestry Weaving, loves nothing more than helping new tapestry weavers untangle the mystery of making images with yarn. Her fledgling career as an expert latch-hooker died before she made it to middle school, but her love of fiber never abandoned her. Now she creates large-format tapestries and is often found weaving in her pajamas which she affectionately calls her “home pants”. She runs an online tapestry school and occasionally she leaves the studio to teach weavers in the real world about color, design, and technique in tapestry. Her current artistic work focuses on human perception and the long scale of geologic time. Her studio is in Fort Collins, Colorado. You can find out more about her on her website and blog at www.tapestryweaving.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
June 9, 2020
I devoured this. Honestly!
Just a few days ago I was discussing tapestry weaving with a friend on Instagram, so I was very happy to get a review copy of this book.
Having experience in weaving some of the basic information was merely brushing up my memory, but the information will be very important for a beginner at weaving. The content is easy to follow, especially together with the accompanying pictures and illustrations.
Warping and thread tension were very interesting to me, but of course the actual title topic, the tapestry weaving, was what I came for. The different techniques and methods are easy to understand and made my fingers itch to start a tapestry.
Just a few days ago I was discussing tapestry weaving with a friend on Instagram, so I was very happy to get a review copy of this book.
Having experience in weaving some of the basic information was merely brushing up my memory, but the information will be very important for a beginner at weaving. The content is easy to follow, especially together with the accompanying pictures and illustrations.
Warping and thread tension were very interesting to me, but of course the actual title topic, the tapestry weaving, was what I came for. The different techniques and methods are easy to understand and made my fingers itch to start a tapestry.
June 9, 2020
I loved this book. I recently purchased a small hand held loom. Unfortunately, was still in its box until today. Rebecca has a very down to earth approach which is evident in every chapter. In the opening chapter, she shows off her first ever tapestry, highlighting its flaws. She has it sitting under her loom as a reminder of how far she has progressed. She guides the reader skillfully through the tools and equipment needed and the techniques used. Carefully highlighting common mistakes along to way to help the reader avoid the pitfalls.
The weavings shown in this book are phenomenal, I love the River Scene and the bold colourful images. She has certainly inspired me to thread up the loom and start my tapestry weaving journey. This is a book that I will go back to time and time again.
Thank you Netgalley for sending me a free advance review copy.
The weavings shown in this book are phenomenal, I love the River Scene and the bold colourful images. She has certainly inspired me to thread up the loom and start my tapestry weaving journey. This is a book that I will go back to time and time again.
Thank you Netgalley for sending me a free advance review copy.
October 28, 2020
I received a copy through NetGalley for review.
I have read many books on tapestry weaving.
As a weaver myself, tapestry was something I have done before, although I work mostly on floor looms or a low beam loom.
This has to be one of the most comprehensive explanations on weaving, supplies, color, techniques I've come across yet. It covers EVERYTHING you could need for tapestry weaving.
I'm really, really impressed. There's photos, as well as walk throughs, explanations written and shown, trouble shooting for problems. It really is fantastic!
I have to applaud Rebecca Mezoff for everything she put into this. If I had to recommend a book, even to a beginner, but someone looking to really get into serious tapestry weaving, done right. This would be the ultimate book for it. She really though this though from front to back.
Well done!
I have read many books on tapestry weaving.
As a weaver myself, tapestry was something I have done before, although I work mostly on floor looms or a low beam loom.
This has to be one of the most comprehensive explanations on weaving, supplies, color, techniques I've come across yet. It covers EVERYTHING you could need for tapestry weaving.
I'm really, really impressed. There's photos, as well as walk throughs, explanations written and shown, trouble shooting for problems. It really is fantastic!
I have to applaud Rebecca Mezoff for everything she put into this. If I had to recommend a book, even to a beginner, but someone looking to really get into serious tapestry weaving, done right. This would be the ultimate book for it. She really though this though from front to back.
Well done!
October 5, 2020
This is a comprehensive book on tapestry weaving written by an experienced weaver. I’m a beginner tapestry weaver and a long way from being as skilled as the writer, but that’s okay. This book is a masterful reference for weavers of all levels. The book covers a variety of techniques on a variety of looms from small to large. She starts with the basics and works all the way through more advanced skills. She also has chapters discussing use of color, fiber choices, tools, design, finishing techniques, and suggestions for display. She even explains how to build your own loom! The illustrations in the book are beautiful and serve to further clarify her writing. I will definitely be buying this book when it comes out!
Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with this ARC in return for my honest review.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with this ARC in return for my honest review.
September 10, 2020
Originally published on my blog: Nonstop Reader.
The Art of Tapestry Weaving is a tutorial guide for pictorial weaving by Rebecca Mezoff. Due out 27th Oct 2020 from Storey Publishing, it's 320 pages and will be available in hardcover and ebook formats.
This is a well written manual covering a wide range of techniques. It's perfectly accessible for a keen beginner (especially with some help support), and the author covers everything from selecting a tapestryloom, through warping, materials selections, different weaving techniques, finishing, etc. The majority of the text provides good instruction in technique and color theory, warping, picking, shapes, outlining, and finishing. The step are meticulously annotated and outlined. The author has also included several appendices: plans for a galvanized pipe loom, conversion charts for metric/SI units, and a cross referenced index.
The entire book is very well photographed with clear and concise instructions which are easy to understand. There is nothing intimidating about the book and it felt to me like the best parts of a teacher led class without any performance anxiety. This will become a go-to reference in the weaver's studio.
This would make a superlative library book, gift for a fibre-arts enthusiast or addition to the weaver's home library.
Five stars.
Disclosure: I received an eARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
The Art of Tapestry Weaving is a tutorial guide for pictorial weaving by Rebecca Mezoff. Due out 27th Oct 2020 from Storey Publishing, it's 320 pages and will be available in hardcover and ebook formats.
This is a well written manual covering a wide range of techniques. It's perfectly accessible for a keen beginner (especially with some help support), and the author covers everything from selecting a tapestryloom, through warping, materials selections, different weaving techniques, finishing, etc. The majority of the text provides good instruction in technique and color theory, warping, picking, shapes, outlining, and finishing. The step are meticulously annotated and outlined. The author has also included several appendices: plans for a galvanized pipe loom, conversion charts for metric/SI units, and a cross referenced index.
The entire book is very well photographed with clear and concise instructions which are easy to understand. There is nothing intimidating about the book and it felt to me like the best parts of a teacher led class without any performance anxiety. This will become a go-to reference in the weaver's studio.
This would make a superlative library book, gift for a fibre-arts enthusiast or addition to the weaver's home library.
Five stars.
Disclosure: I received an eARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
September 17, 2020
An encyclopedic volume with many helpful and colorful images. If you are going to buy only one book about weaving, this is an excellent choice, especially for those just beginning to explore weaving.
August 12, 2021
A book on tapestry techniques and making samplers. I found myself unable to create anything other than samplers after finishing the book and exercises. I've noticed other weavers who have followed this book only creating simple and small projects that resemble samplers as well.
Afterwards I took a class with a different instructor and needed to unlearn some of the rules provided in this book so I could expand my weaving skills.
I have two friends whose first language is not English. For some reason they could not follow this instructor.
I recommend this book for weavers interested in learning southwest style weaving techniques and intend to stick with that style. If interested in weaving pictorial or abstract images, find a different author for instruction.
Afterwards I took a class with a different instructor and needed to unlearn some of the rules provided in this book so I could expand my weaving skills.
I have two friends whose first language is not English. For some reason they could not follow this instructor.
I recommend this book for weavers interested in learning southwest style weaving techniques and intend to stick with that style. If interested in weaving pictorial or abstract images, find a different author for instruction.
July 11, 2020
Newer tapestry weavers and students wishing to learn more or improve their work will love this excellent new how-to book by the well known fiber artist and teacher Rebecca Mezoff. EVERYONE who is interested in this art form will want this instructional book near their loom. Clear photos are combined with step by step information on what to do and not do to achieve a particular result, and why. Rebecca is a perfectionist as a weaver but a very, very giving teacher. Do yourself a favor and buy yourself a print copy of this book. (Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a pre-pub digital copy to read).
June 27, 2020
As a weaver, I think that this is one of the best books solely on tapestry weaving for beginners I have seen in awhile. Beautifully illustrated with photographs and well explained. There are two main chapters Learning and Making, within these are a lifetime of experience to teach a very old skill that is now coming back into fashion again.
A great book, not only for beginners, but experienced tapestry weavers will pick up lot of information throughout this book.
A great book, not only for beginners, but experienced tapestry weavers will pick up lot of information throughout this book.
September 11, 2020
A very fine, accessible and beautiful exploration of an ancient art. Rebecca Mezoff is an extremely talented and personable teacher who has brought all the strengths of her popular workshops and online classes to the page. Join her on an introduction to this extremely satisfying art.
August 30, 2020
This book is a fantastic guide for beginners just starting. I would even recommendthis book fir more experiencd weavers. It is very wekk written and presented.
The instructions are clear, thorough and easy to follow and understand. I received this book from NetGalley for an honest review.
The instructions are clear, thorough and easy to follow and understand. I received this book from NetGalley for an honest review.
August 12, 2021
I don't weave but if I was going to take up another hobby, tapestry weaving would be it. This book gives you every little thing you might possibly need to know to get started and keep on with this beautiful practice. Highly recommended for anyone who might want to start with tapestry!
August 27, 2020
An encyclopedic volume with many helpful and colorful images. If you are going to buy only one book about weaving, this is an excellent choice, especially for those just beginning to explore weaving.
August 1, 2022
This is a truly gorgeous book and comprehensive manual. This is the kind of book you point to when people don't understand the "price tag" of arts and crafts, to explain to them how weaving something that is just a few inches in dimensions can, indeed, require about 250 pages of knowledge. I will note two things, both which have to do with the title.
(1) this strictly concerns "tapestry" in a fairly formal sense. You're making the objects on the cover: flat woven 2D structures, mostly decorative/artistic in nature, probably meant to be hung on a wall. This is not about so-called contemporary boho-chic weaving that incorporates twigs and roving and other interesting materials (that stuff is great, but it's just not addressed here). This also won't really help you weaving a scarf or a dishcloth or functional textile—and it doesn't pretend to, it's right in the title!
(2) because it is so encyclopedic and comprehensive, it's slightly hard to use as a "manual". Beginners will likely be overwhelmed. For example, say you have a heirloom simple untensioned frame loom and some cotton warp and some random yarn, and you're eager to get started. You won't start warping until page ~70, and then the first body weft hits the warp at page ~130. You also have to sort through lots of (to you, irrelevant) info about beamed warps and shed mechanisms that you don't have. To be absolutely clear I don't mean to critique the book or organization at all — rather this is a caution for the reader to understand what they're getting into. This is not a quick pick-up-and-go thing, this is truly about understanding the "art" of tapestry, to understand the story of each tapestry you encounter, to learn to appreciate clean selvage and lice-less weft, to learn to become a more mindful and slow weaver in pursuit of excellence in weaving.
(1) this strictly concerns "tapestry" in a fairly formal sense. You're making the objects on the cover: flat woven 2D structures, mostly decorative/artistic in nature, probably meant to be hung on a wall. This is not about so-called contemporary boho-chic weaving that incorporates twigs and roving and other interesting materials (that stuff is great, but it's just not addressed here). This also won't really help you weaving a scarf or a dishcloth or functional textile—and it doesn't pretend to, it's right in the title!
(2) because it is so encyclopedic and comprehensive, it's slightly hard to use as a "manual". Beginners will likely be overwhelmed. For example, say you have a heirloom simple untensioned frame loom and some cotton warp and some random yarn, and you're eager to get started. You won't start warping until page ~70, and then the first body weft hits the warp at page ~130. You also have to sort through lots of (to you, irrelevant) info about beamed warps and shed mechanisms that you don't have. To be absolutely clear I don't mean to critique the book or organization at all — rather this is a caution for the reader to understand what they're getting into. This is not a quick pick-up-and-go thing, this is truly about understanding the "art" of tapestry, to understand the story of each tapestry you encounter, to learn to appreciate clean selvage and lice-less weft, to learn to become a more mindful and slow weaver in pursuit of excellence in weaving.
July 17, 2020
I love weaving, so when I seen this book it was love at first sight. I was really excited to dive in and find out what this book had to offer. It includes a lot of info about what tools you will need and how to use different types of looms. Which is very helpful for getting a beginner off to a good start. I also really loved that this book included info on how to build different types of tapestry looms yourself. This book also has wonderful info about yarn types/sizing, an in depth look at colors, how to weave using amazing tapestry techniques, and so much more!
Because I had an ARC of the book for review a lot of the pictures were not yet placed in the book, but the pictures it did have in place were simply breathtaking. The pictures were very clear, detailed, and made things very easy to understand.
I think it would be a great book for someone who wanted to get started with tapestry weaving. It has a ton of info packed into one convenient place, and the pictures make it very inspiring to look through. And even if you are already an experienced weaver, you will probably learn some amazing new tips and techniques from this book.
I received this book free through NetGalley from Storey Publishing for my honest review. The opinions are my own.
Because I had an ARC of the book for review a lot of the pictures were not yet placed in the book, but the pictures it did have in place were simply breathtaking. The pictures were very clear, detailed, and made things very easy to understand.
I think it would be a great book for someone who wanted to get started with tapestry weaving. It has a ton of info packed into one convenient place, and the pictures make it very inspiring to look through. And even if you are already an experienced weaver, you will probably learn some amazing new tips and techniques from this book.
I received this book free through NetGalley from Storey Publishing for my honest review. The opinions are my own.
June 26, 2020
I received a free e-book ARC from #NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book is not just an introduction to tapestry weaving, but full of everything you would need to know! It feels almost like an encyclopedia of tapestries.
There are beautiful pictures, clear and precise instructions, and almost every little last detail. Because of this, at times I felt overwhelmed and confused. Some terms were referenced at the beginning that I didn't read the definition of until later in the book. In addition, something about the way the information was organized really didn't work for me. I wish the basics of weaving had come earlier in the book, rather than 1/3 of the way in. I don't think the book was poorly organized, it just didn't work well for me and my brain.
Don't let that deter you from purchasing the book, however. If you are sincerely interested in tapestry weaving (I have more of an observational, casual interest) I think this book will become a lifeline for you.
This book is not just an introduction to tapestry weaving, but full of everything you would need to know! It feels almost like an encyclopedia of tapestries.
There are beautiful pictures, clear and precise instructions, and almost every little last detail. Because of this, at times I felt overwhelmed and confused. Some terms were referenced at the beginning that I didn't read the definition of until later in the book. In addition, something about the way the information was organized really didn't work for me. I wish the basics of weaving had come earlier in the book, rather than 1/3 of the way in. I don't think the book was poorly organized, it just didn't work well for me and my brain.
Don't let that deter you from purchasing the book, however. If you are sincerely interested in tapestry weaving (I have more of an observational, casual interest) I think this book will become a lifeline for you.
July 18, 2020
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
As someone who is very active in fiber arts, and interested in tapestry weaving at the entry level, I was thrilled to get my hands on this book. It basically encompasses a beginner level class, and contains all the information you need to start weaving.
The Art of Tapestry Weaving covers everything from the history of tapestry, to color theory, all the way through a step-by-step walk through of technique and design. The directions are clear and easy to follow, with plenty of photos. It even contains directions for a basic pipe loom.
I would definitely recommend this to anyone who is interested in a beginner tapestry weaving. Both comprehensive and encouraging, Rebecca shares her years of teaching and weaving experience in this fun and accessible book.
As someone who is very active in fiber arts, and interested in tapestry weaving at the entry level, I was thrilled to get my hands on this book. It basically encompasses a beginner level class, and contains all the information you need to start weaving.
The Art of Tapestry Weaving covers everything from the history of tapestry, to color theory, all the way through a step-by-step walk through of technique and design. The directions are clear and easy to follow, with plenty of photos. It even contains directions for a basic pipe loom.
I would definitely recommend this to anyone who is interested in a beginner tapestry weaving. Both comprehensive and encouraging, Rebecca shares her years of teaching and weaving experience in this fun and accessible book.
September 18, 2024
This is an impressive book. Just exactly what I wanted, and even more than I expected. I love the contemporary weaving examples from other artists as well, as I haven't really seen that much tapestry personally.
I'm a beginner Weaver, so only a bit of this makes sense at first go through. I got this book specifically to learn about designing my own weavings for tapestry, and while that section isn't huge, it's got more than any other book I have seen.
Plus no lame or ugly "projects" like other books. Yay!
I consider this more a tapestry textbook, as it is serious and it's approach is serious, too.
Overall, it gives me hope to read this book, and I know it will up my weaving game.
I'm a beginner Weaver, so only a bit of this makes sense at first go through. I got this book specifically to learn about designing my own weavings for tapestry, and while that section isn't huge, it's got more than any other book I have seen.
Plus no lame or ugly "projects" like other books. Yay!
I consider this more a tapestry textbook, as it is serious and it's approach is serious, too.
Overall, it gives me hope to read this book, and I know it will up my weaving game.
May 18, 2020
The Art of Tapestry Weaving is an intricately detailed how-to book. The instructions are perfect for a beginner weaver. While there are no specific patterns to follow, there are instructions on how to weave designs and shapes and each section also has troubleshooting tips. While the book has information on different types of looms, the design instructions are all done on a handheld-size loom. This book gives the reader freedom to apply the concepts to their own designs and allow their creativity to shine.
November 20, 2020
The Art of Tapestry Weaving is equal parts passion and precision. The depth and detail Rebecca Mezoff brings to teaching the craft of tapestry weaving guarantees you will need no other book to learn the essential skills. The breadth and joy she brings to teaching the art of tapestry assures the growth of your ability, creativity and excitement at the loom for a long, long time.
February 4, 2021
If you want to learn tapestry on your own but this book.
Best how to fiber book I have read. Wonderful step by step instructions with beautifully photographed illustrations. Plenty of good advice about how to practice the techniques. And great pictures of fabulous tapestries using the techniques. All woven together with clear lucid prose from an expert who feels like a friend.
Best how to fiber book I have read. Wonderful step by step instructions with beautifully photographed illustrations. Plenty of good advice about how to practice the techniques. And great pictures of fabulous tapestries using the techniques. All woven together with clear lucid prose from an expert who feels like a friend.
November 3, 2020
I love it!
Beautiful photos, easy to follow explanations, lot of concepts and examples! I am a beginner and I found his books is a fantastic adition to my consult library. I also recommend Rebecca's courses.
Beautiful photos, easy to follow explanations, lot of concepts and examples! I am a beginner and I found his books is a fantastic adition to my consult library. I also recommend Rebecca's courses.
February 16, 2021
A full color how-to! Covers how the type and size of yarn and the number of threads alters your weaving, how to choose a loom for your project, and making color cards before you begin. Details tools and techniques to add texture and shape to your weavings to truly make pictures with yarn.
April 7, 2023
a good overview of techniques but not actually about images in weavings so much. all about traditionalism and doing things "the right way" and less so on free-form. although still had some tips and tricks I will add to my practice
October 16, 2020
A lovely overview of the craft of weaving. A great guide for beginners, and some inspiring input from textile artists. This is a beautiful book, and highly recommended.
November 6, 2020
I can't wait to put this content to use!
October 8, 2021
Excellent and complete guide to tapestry weaving. Everything you need from A to Z. Also includes plans for building pipe looms.
December 17, 2021
Very helpful book . I'm learning to weave and this book tell information on type, tools, supplies and more.
June 4, 2022
Great reference book for anyone interested in learning to weave tapestry. A good accompaniment to Mezoff's Intro to Tapestry Weaving course available through her website. Highly recommend.
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August 27, 2022Excellent learning and reference book
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews