Silk Paper: A Guide to Making It and Using It in Textile Art

I came across a comment in another book, about using Silk Paper as a material for mixed media and textile work, and ordered this book as a reference. To begin with, it is a beautiful book, with carefully chosen samples of process and of the finished works. Even though it is classified as "crafts", the author surely has the hand and eye of a fine artist. I liked this book above others I previewed because it includes an extensive description of the many types of raw silk fibers, and all of their particular qualities: ie: gummy in the name refers to silk that still contains a natural gun called sericin, and therefore will require a certain type of handling.There is a brief section on the dying of the fibers ahead of the fusion, or felting process. The author then goes on to describe in detail, four different methods that result in a fused paper-like fiber. The Ironing Method, which uses sprayed moisture and heat from an iron; The Medium Method, which uses the addition of an liquid adhesive; The Stitched Method, which employs free-motion embroidery and water-soluble film; and the fourth, which is a Weaving with Rods and Cocoons process.I love working with paper for collage and other mixed-media works, and I love handling fabric and fibers. Being exposed to this technique of integrating materials is fascinating to me and promises to send my art in New Directions.

The strength of Sarah Lawrence's book Silk Paper - A Guide to Making It and Using It in Textile Art is the eye candy and gorgeous things that have been made with silk paper.I initially gave this book four stars, but after a second reading, I upped it to five. There is how-to information here that I have not seen in any other of the books (5?) I own on the subject of making and using silk paper.The only thing bad I have to say about it is that the brief information on Procion dyeing of silk fiber is just plain wrong. The author states that she doesn't use Procion dyes, which is fine, but it is obvious that she has not paid even a cursory visit to websites of dye purveyors (Pro Chemical & Dye or Dharma, for example) to learn how they are successfully used by home dyers for silk. So, do your own research for dyeing decisions, then get past it to the good stuff.There are usable instructions and lots of close-up pictures of beautifully colored, imaginative uses of silk papers - stitched, beaded, cut, cast - which will make you want to grab your supplies and get to work immediately! Just be careful not to drool on the book and your lovely projects!

I love this book it has so many interesting ideas about working with silk and making silk paper. There is a type of product I can't get here but most things are available. Very informative, book was in very good condition and it was delivered quickly.

This was the most comprehensive and thought-out book in my library....I carry it everywhere I find myself in a waiting room situation; reading, re-reading and memorizing. So thankful to have it nearby.

Lots of ideas and good techniques for using silk in a new and exciting way. Good examples of the various techniques

This is a lovely book with ideas for taking your silk paper art to a new level.

I ordered a copy for my friend, it was such a great book, I ordered a copy for me and both arrived on time and in perfect condition

great book to learn new techniques to apply to art quilts as well as other work

This book has rebooted my love of silk paper creating. Lots of useful info for beginners and more experienced artists alike.

I bought this as a gift and it was very well received for the excellent photography and skill of the creator.

This is a wonderful book. It gives detailed easy to follow instructions and the photos are clear and very helpful.