Inspiration Kantha: Creative Stitchery and Quilting with Asia's Ancient Technique

(Hardback)

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Kanthas, embroidered fabrics traditionally created by the women of northern India and Bangladesh, capture culture, history, and stitching creativity in their layers of repurposed old cloth. This book reveals the beauty in kantha's simplicity--it is based on simple running stitch--and offers step-by-step instructions that enable today's textile artists to enjoy it. Kanthas were originally created from threadbare clothing to rejuvenate it. The used fabrics were layered, then embellished with motifs and themes from nature, everyday life, and spirituality. This guide leads you through the layering of fabrics, transfer of imagery, and the stitching itself. There are handy motif patterns, instructions on how to begin a personal kantha reference library, and more. Both simple and complex projects, appealing to beginners and expert stitchers, get you started, and a colourful gallery of kantha work is included to inspire you. AUTHOR: Anna Hergert was exposed to fibre art at an early age. Handwork was a regular part of the weekly school curriculum in her native Germany, and led to her lifelong work with art and textiles. An enthusiastic and committed teacher, lecturer, and writer, she is also a full time professional artist. Her work has been shown in solo and group exhibitions in Asia, Europe, and North America, and is in private collections and public spaces in Canada, the US, and Europe. She has received numerous awards for her innovative approaches to quilting and surface design, including from the Saskatchewan Craft Council and the Grand National Juried Show. She was named the CQA/ACC Teacher of the Year in 2014. Anna makes her home just north of Moose Jaw with her husband Colin. She creates art in her dream studio overlooking the breathtaking scenery of the Western Qu'Appelle Valley, which serves as a constant source of inspiration. http://annahergert.me 239 colour and b/w images

Reviews

A wonderful book on the history of Kantha Quilts, originating in India.-NetGalley Reviewer

Author Bio

Anna Hergert is a full time professional artist specializing in stitched textiles. Her work has been shown in solo and group exhibitions in Asia, Europe, and North America.