Subject
Dyes and dyeing Books
Best books
Josef Bersch
The manufacture of mineral and lake pigments : $b Containing directions for the manufacture of all artificial artists' and painters' colours, enamel colours, soot and metallic pigments
"The Manufacture of Mineral and Lake Pigments" by Dr. Josef Bersch is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. This text serves as a comprehensive guide for manufacturers, artists, and chemists, detailing the processes involved in the creation of various pigments used in art and industry. The book discusses the evolution of color manufacturing, emphasizing the shift from natural to synthetic pigments and the importance of non-toxic alternatives in contemporary usage. The opening of this work sets the stage for a deep dive into the historical significance and technical aspects of pigment production. Bersch introduces the longstanding tradition of color-making, tracing its origins from ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and Greeks to the modern advancements in chemical technology. He outlines the fundamental chemical principles underlying pigment development while providing an overview of the various techniques employed over the centuries to synthesize colors, highlighting both the artistic and practical applications of different pigments.
Ethel Mairet
A Book on Vegetable Dyes
"A Book on Vegetable Dyes" by Ethel Mairet is a practical guide on the art of dyeing using natural materials, likely written in the early 20th century. The book delves into the traditions of vegetable dyeing, discussing its decline in favor of synthetic dyes and emphasizing the importance of natural color in craftsmanship. It aims to revive and document the practices, knowledge, and recipes for dyeing various fibers with traditional substances. The opening of this book sets the stage for a robust exploration of dyeing as an artistic craft, lamenting the loss of traditional methods in a modern world inundated with synthetic options. Mairet reflects on how the beauty of colors obtainable through natural dyes has been overshadowed by the ease of chemical dyes, urging artisans to reconnect with the rich history of dyeing. The introduction also outlines the book's contents, which reveal a structured approach to not only the dyeing process but also the types of materials and techniques needed for effective results, ultimately encouraging readers to develop their own practices in this fading art.
Walter Davis Baker
Batik and other pattern dyeing
"Batik and Other Pattern Dyeing" by Walter Davis Baker and Ida Strawn Baker is an instructional text on textile art, specifically focused on the batik dyeing technique, written in the early 20th century. This work explores not only the history and principles of batik but also various methods and processes associated with textile dyeing, including wax resist and pattern dyeing. The book appears to target educators and art students, encouraging practical application in artistic education. The opening of the book begins with a detailed exploration of the history and significance of batik, tracing its roots to ancient Asian textile traditions, particularly in countries like Java and India. The authors introduce readers to the importance of color in batik decoration, describing the intricate process of applying wax to fabric for creating patterns before dyeing. They highlight the artistic and educational value of batik in school curriculums, emphasizing how engaging with this craft can cultivate creativity and a deeper appreciation for textile design among students.
Gertrude Clayton Lewis
First lessons in batik : $b a handbook in batik, tie-dyeing and all pattern dyeing
"First Lessons in Batik: A Handbook in Batik, Tie-Dyeing and All Pattern Dyeing" by Gertrude Clayton Lewis is a practical guidebook written in the early 20th century, specifically in the 1920s. This handbook focuses on the methods and techniques of batik dyeing, along with tie-dyeing, providing detailed instructions and insights into this intricate artistic craft. It aims to bring awareness to the processes associated with batik while encouraging artists, students, and craft workers to explore and create vibrant, individualized textile pieces. The book delves deeply into the batik process, from its historical roots and traditional methods in Java to practical guidance for practitioners in America. Lewis shares thorough explanations of tools and materials, including the tjanting and wax mixtures, as well as knowledge about dye preparation and color theory. In addition to presenting various techniques such as crackle effects in batik and suggestions for creating designs, the author emphasizes the importance of craftsmanship and the personal touch in batik work. Readers are encouraged to experiment and find their style, making this resource both informative and inspiring for textile artists and hobbyists alike.
Ethel Mairet
Vegetable Dyes: Being a Book of Recipes and Other Information Useful to the Dyer
"Vegetable Dyes: Being a Book of Recipes and Other Information Useful to the Dyer" by Ethel M. Mairet is a practical guidebook written in the early 20th century. It delves into the craft of dyeing with natural plant materials, providing readers with an array of recipes and detailed insights on various dye sources. The book focuses on the use of vegetable dyes for different textiles, such as wool, silk, cotton, and linen, illustrating both traditional techniques and the properties of various dye plants. The opening of the book offers foundational information on the types of fibers suitable for dyeing, including various qualities of wool and the importance of mordants in the dyeing process. Mairet emphasizes the significance of using clean, soft water and proper cleaning methods for each fiber, stating that raw wool should be retained in its natural grease until it is ready for dyeing. Additionally, the text introduces key concepts in dyeing, such as the roles of mordants and the chemistry involved in fixing colors. This initial section sets the stage for various recipes and discussions on specific dye plants and their applications throughout the rest of the book.
Thomas Packer
The Dyer's Guide Being a compendium of the art of dyeing linen, cotton, silk, wool, muslin, dresses, furniture, &c. &c.; with the method of scouring wool, bleaching cotton, &c., and directions for ungumming silk, and for whitening and sulphuring silk and wool; and also an introductory epitome of the leading facts in chemistry, as connected with the art of dyeing
"The Dyer's Guide" by Thomas Packer is a comprehensive manual on the art of dyeing, written in the early 19th century. The text serves as a practical resource for dyers, integrating methods for dyeing various materials such as linen, cotton, silk, and wool, while also providing insights into the chemical principles that underpin dyeing processes. It aims to bridge the gap in knowledge for practitioners in the dyeing industry, making it accessible to both experienced dyers and apprentices. The opening of "The Dyer's Guide" introduces the reader to the structure and content of the manual, including a detailed outline of various dyeing techniques and necessary mordants. It describes different branches of dyeing, highlighting specific processes for treating wool, silk, and cotton. Importantly, Packer discusses the importance of understanding the chemistry behind dyeing, such as the substances used and their interactions, in order to improve dye quality and permanence. He also emphasizes the practical experiences and observations accumulated over his career to ensure that the manual is rooted in everyday applications rather than theoretical ambiguity.
Charles E. (Charles Ernest) Pellew
Dyes and dyeing
"Dyes and Dyeing" by Charles E. Pellew is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. The book focuses on the art and science of dyeing textiles, exploring historical methods, modern dyestuffs, and practical instructions for amateur craftsmen. It aims to provide accessible information for individuals interested in hand-dyeing, contrasting traditional practices with advancements in chemical dyes. The opening of the book provides a context for its purpose, detailing the author's motivation stemming from his experience teaching dyeing principles to craftspeople engaged in hand-weaving. Pellew underscores the superiority and diversity of modern dyes compared to traditional methods, highlighting the need for straightforward, practical instructions that enable amateur dyers to achieve colorful and lasting results without the often tedious processes of the past. The introduction sets a tone of encouragement, expressing hope that the content will inspire budding textile artists and enrich their understanding of dyeing as a craft.
Recently surfaced classics