In our busy contemporary society, do we stop to consider the narrative woven through the very fibres we have mindlessly flung on to protect us from the elements, the items which silently walk with us each and every day as loyal companions? Within this publication, Thanhauser takes us on travels throughout the world, to investigate the key fabric bricks of our world today, namely Linen, Cotton, Silk, Synthetics and Wool.

In SASHIKO 365, Briscoe here brings together her experience of Japanese culture and the meditative concept of stitching each and every day as a rule, a challenge to ourselves. This is a tuition based book, not centred around the therapeutic aspects which often coincide hand stitch and particularly the slow stitch concept which resides in a sashiko stitch.

Using natural resources as a constant tap of inspiration, artist Ann Goddard envelops us in a wholesome and educational hug. She dots throughout this book; ideas for us to be inspired by, yet not feel the need to copy exactly. From leaves to in depth studies of even stitching into concrete, this book proves a wonderful showcase of Goddard’s artistic prowess.

In this data x textiles mash up, learn how artist Jordan Cunliffe has used data visualisation within textile art to create thought provoking simplistic designs, with deep meaning.

Making a Life, written by Melanie Falik and published by the Artisan Division of Workman Publishing

What drives us to create? Why do we seem to feel an inner need to vocalise this visually? Why do others feel differently or never imagine they require creativity in the first place? Within this 320 page strongly bound publication, Falik debates and illustrates the working world of many makers.

Without leaving our own location, let this writer walk you through the lives of many contemporary makers.

In Wild Textiles, Alice Fox successfully marries together nature and textiles to create a timely guide on how to use our own outdoor environments to inspire the creation of art. She offers guidance spanning both creative arts and horticultural topics, drawing them together is this mindful tome.

In Contemporary Weaving in Mixed Media, acclaimed textile art expert Rachna Garodia leads us through how to use contemporary media such as natural finds on our woodland walks, dried pressed flowers and even items discovered in our memory boxes to create contemporary woven art works.