Colour on Cloth

Colour on Cloth by Ruth Issett is an inspiring English-language book for anyone who wants to use colour on textiles more confidently. A leading specialist in textile art, the author shows how thoughtful colour combinations, technique and experimentation can create striking results on a wide range of materials.

This book is ideal for embroiderers, patchworkers, textile decorators, students and teachers of design. With clear guidance and richly illustrated examples, it gives you both fresh ideas and practical support for working with fabric by the metre, threads and dye processes.

Colour, technique and inspiration for textiles

Colour on Cloth covers dyeing natural materials such as heavy cotton, silk, satin, linen and cotton velvet, as well as threads. You will learn how to mix colours, how tones, tints and shades work together, and how complementary colour schemes can strengthen your work. There is also plenty of practical advice on fabric preparation, colour families, equipment, overdyeing and different fabric types.

For experimentation and deeper learning

Alongside the basics, Ruth Issett explains techniques such as resist, discharge and bleached effects. That makes this book suitable for both beginners and more experienced makers who want to get more from their textile projects. The mix of technical guidance and visual inspiration makes it a valuable reference for anyone working with colour in textile art, patchwork or embroidery.

If you are looking for an inspiring book about colour on cloth and textile technique, Colour on Cloth is an excellent choice for anyone who enjoys experimenting and discovering new possibilities with fabric and dye.