Forage & Stitch: Using natural materials in textile art

Have a few books on textiles, but there aren't so many that directly cover how to use nature in your work in this way. Had seen artist Caroline Hyde-Brown's beautiful work on Pinterest so decided to take a chance on this book - very glad I did. One of her strong points is that she shows you how to sew botanical material directly onto your work.This is quite a comprehensive book, it talks about how she relates to the landscape in Norfolk where she lives, how she goes out to forage, what she collects, processing and storing what is gathered, her work in notebooks, projects to try and then lots of very informative pictures of her fantastic work. I only had to get a few supplies (eg silk tulle, 100% Acetone, chiffon) the rest are things you would have in your stash (eg soluble backing). There is a section on dyeing small bits of fabric, free motion embroidery, image transfer, but also quite a few other techniques she uses like Hapa-zome. I think this book is a very nice balance between showing you her wonderful artwork and 'how to' techniques. She is generous with her knowledge because the book tells you exactly how to do it. So far I have tried the image transfers of trees from my own photographs (have to give it a few more goes to get it how I want). Can't wait to try the dried flower wall hanging and sewing fallen lichen onto work. So glad to have this book to work through over the coming months.Highly recommended if you want to use the natural world around you to incorporate into your work.

This book is beautifully produced. excellent clear photographs and instructions. This book is inspiring and, even for those, like me, who are new to foraging and creating art, it encourages us to give it a go. I am looking forward to being outside and looking with 'renewed eyes' at all that nature provides to enable creavity.

Fab book, even got to meet the author who is local to me.

Can't wait to try some of the projects.

This book is fantastic, great knowledge, well put together, great photos, fascinating and inspiring. The big format makes it even more fantastic.

This is the book for anyone who enjoys craft work and who cannot go for a walk in the countryside without coming home with a pocket full of ‘treasures’, acorns, interesting wood, leaves ,flowers, the author will help you find a use for them all.I have tried some of the dying methods and all have worked very well.The book is beautifully illustrated through and the instructions are easy to follow.

The first time I saw this book I knew that I would love it, and I'm not disappointed. It's not only an instructional book but also a wonderful read. Just browsing through the pages makes me want to go foraging and try yet another technique. Caroline's instructions are clear and cover everything - particular items to look for in each season, how to prepare and store the items, natural dyeing and creating lovely artwork. Her love of both nature and stitching is clear to see on every page and I think anyone with similar interests will love this book as much as I do.