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For Instructors

Textbook Description

Origins of FabricThe complexity, purpose, and place that fabric has for interiors is the subject of the text, Fabric for the Designed Interior, Third Edition. The integrated instructional materials found in the text and supported by STUDIO are intended for interior design and architecture students, designers, and industry representatives such as budding fabric editors who are interested in knowing details 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 role of fabric as force that permitted travel beyond the cave cannot be underestimated.

The 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. The new chapter entitled, “Fabric for Travel and Leisure” informs what is appropriate for all modes of travel including space exploration. Advancements in fiber structures are examined along with nanotechnology. Environmental impacts of fabric creation, use, and disposal are examined as well.

warp and creelUnique 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 full-service New York City workroom observing details on how fabric and all necessary hardware is transformed into window treatments, furniture, and bedding. The construction of custom-made seating that starts with the kiln-dried wood selection is also reviewed. Additional workrooms were consulted to cross-reference this information

The book, academic yet practical in nature, includes interviews from experts who have contributed to each chapter. Individuals such as Professor Rong Yin, Ph.D. from North Carolina State University and the Wilson College of Textiles weigh in on technical aspects of fiber and fabric while Lynne Willis, Executive Director of the Association for Contract Textiles (ACT), examines fabric for contract applications. The book is international in scope and includes Mary Schoeser, Senior Research Fellow at the V&A Museum in London who educates on fabric history. Zaniz, founder and Director of Zaniz, Ltd London who specializes in yacht design contributed to the chapter on travel and leisure. An example of her work is exemplified by the 353 foot (107.6 meters) yacht Luminosity. This chapter and interview reminds students that interior design work can be more than creating home living spaces. (https://www.fraseryachts.com/en/yacht/luminosity/)

The influence and significance of AI and Generative AI is undeniable. Fabric for the Designed Interior, Third Edition explores the potential of AI for interiors as well as its implications for fabric production through Machine Learning (ML).

Teaching Assistance

Fabric for the Designed Interior, Third Edition is pedagogically sound and relates to individuals who are visual learners that comprise the majority of designers in all design professions. The Third Edition includes over 30 up-to-date video references. Opportunities for advanced study include Immerse and Expand that broaden the student learning experience. 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’ with answers for each chapter.

Bloomsbury’s STUDIO provides a convenient method of addressing the many supporting and reinforcing aspects of the text. Although the Third Edition paperback appears in black and white, the popular eBook is in full color.