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For Instructors

Text and Video

Textbook and Video Description

Origins of FabricThe complexity, purpose, and place that fabric has for interiors is the subject of the text, Fabric for the Designed Interior, Second Edition and Video. The integrated materials are intended for interior design and architecture students, designers working to become established, and industry representatives such as budding fabric editors who are interested in knowing more about the role of fabric for interior spaces, both public and private.

The twelve chapters include a review of the colorful history of fabric, calling attention to its “powers” as well as how it has contributed to the study of archaeology, anthropology, sociology, religion and symbolism, politics, and economics.

The book describes woven structures and literally shows how fabric for interiors is produced and printed through an interactive Video tour of the renown, 110,000 square foot Scalamandre mill, formerly located in Long Island City, New York that existed for 75 years. The author worked in the mill for five years. Although the vertical mill no longer exists, most of the processes and technology that were employed in the mill remain relevant today. Additionally, for students who are not conveniently located near a design center, the Video synched to the text explains how a showroom functions and how fabric is acquired by professional designers through a visit to the Lee Jofa showroom in the Decoration and Design Building (D&D), New York City and to other showrooms featuring both residential and contract fabric.

warp and creelThe book covers a wide range of topics relevant to understanding fabric, its construction, and use. Chapter topics include, “Dyeing, Printing, and Finishing.” There are two chapters dealing with specifying residential and contract fabric. Another addresses carpet and rugs as well as codes, and safety issues. Sustainability and the notion of “cradle to cradle” is examined as well as how fabric, carpeting, and rugs are to be maintained. Advancements in fiber structures are examined along with nanotechnology. Furthermore, Fabric for the Designed Interior, Second Edition and Video examine, in detail, passementerie. The importance of trimming is underscored as a functional entity as well as a source for additional revenue for designers.

Unique aspects of the book include a chapter entitled, “Inside the Workroom.” Information for this chapter was gained during the author’s six-week experience with a prominent New York City workroom observing how fabric and all necessary hardware is transformed into window treatments, furniture, and beds. The construction of custom-made seating starting with the wood selection is also reviewed. Additional workrooms were consulted to cross-reference this information. The book, academic yet practical in nature, concludes with interviews from prominent and well-published interior and fabric designers and manufacturers worldwide. Topics range from how they specify and scheme fabrics and rugs in a room, to dealing with showrooms, workrooms, and clients. Fabric suppliers are also interviewed in order to discover what they believe designers need to know about sourcing fabric and what can and cannot be expected from fabric manufacturers.

Teaching Assistance

Fabric for the Designed Interior is pedagogically sound and relates to individuals who are visual learners, which encompasses the majority of designers in all design professions. The Second Edition includes over 20 videos embedded in the text for optional viewing and integrates learning activities that can take the learner ‘deep’ on a topic (Immerse) or broaden their learning experience (Expand). All chapters end with a Summary, Activities, Vocabulary List, and a Read On section.

The Instructor’s Guide offers methods of teaching based on current thinking. The Guide includes Chapter Goals, Vocabulary Check Quizzes, and Test Questions with Answers. A detailed Syllabus featuring Reading Assignments, Activities, and Evaluations is also included.

Bloomsbury’s STUDIO provides a convenient method of addressing the many supporting and reinforcing aspects of the text. The book, also available as an eBook, can be purchased with an optional Swatch Reference Guide that includes 145 fabric samples measuring three inches by four inches. The Guide comes with a pick glass for detailed fiber analysis.