Deb Brandon: Living in Radiant Color

Threads Around the World

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In Threads Around the World: From Arabian Weaving to Batik in Zimbabwe, author Deb Brandon weaves together the stories of 25 diverse world cultures by showcasing their unique take on textile art.

Using original methods, modern fiber artists continue an age-old tradition of cultural storytelling. Threads Around the World examines everything from espadrilles to mirror embroidery, and offers well-researched context on the histories behind the wall-hangings.

Brandon—a weaver, writer and mathematics professor at Carnegie Mellon University—is a decade-long contributor to Weave a Real Peace (WARP), a nonprofit networking organization dedicated to improving the quality of life of textile artisans in communities in need. Her enthusiasm for the craft and its community brings an open-eyed understanding of textile arts, appealing not only to textile devotees but also to those interested in understanding diverse cultures through heritage crafts.

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Cover image for "Threads Around the World"

ISBN-13: 9780764356506

hardcover | 160 pages | 197 color images

What people are saying about Threads Around the World:

Once in a while, a book comes along that reminds us why textiles are so integral to human endeavors. This is a book to savor.

A global tour marked by depth, insight, and intrigue... a gift for textile enthusiasts and for the future.

Fun, full of surprises, and a valuable contribution to understanding a wide range of cultures, something sorely needed in this ever more conflicted world. Written in bite-sized chapters, with stunning photography... recommended for textile lovers and world travelers alike.

Draws attention to the rich cultural meanings of textiles whose sparkle and shine might otherwise distract the viewer from going deeper.

In my heart I am very much part of the WARP "tribe."  I immediately bought your book from WARP and literally have read it from cover to cover.  It is amazing in its technical descriptions but even more so as a personal journey. You have made the readers feel as if we were on this marvelous trip and have had the opportunity to reach out to these artisans.  I can't  thank you enough for the enormous effort that has gone into such a publication.  For me it will always be in my studio waiting for inspiration.

Winner, Benjamin Franklin Award (silver), Multicultural, 2020

Winner, International Book Awards, Art, 2019

Finalist, Next Generation Indie Book Awards, General Nonfiction, 2019

Winner, Independent Publisher Award IPPY (silver), How-To (Crafts / Hobby / Industrial Arts)