An exploration of abstract textile work with practical tips on how to progress from the realistic to the abstract within your own practice. From Amish quilts through to contemporary makers, abstract textile work is a captivating art form that can capture a mood or feeling. In this fascinating book, renowned textile artist and tutor Anne Kelly shows you how to incorporate the abstract into your own work through experimentation and process. From shapes, colors, and surface patterns to line art and textile influences, you will be armed with everything you need to make and experience your own personal responses to the theme. Beautiful artworks by the author illustrate the themes and techniques in the book. There are also contributions from other exciting contemporary artists and makers, such as Sarah Z. Short, Lorna Crane, Iain Perry, and Helen Banzhaf. Chapters include: • “From Nature to Abstract: Getting Started” • "Shapes and Color: Midcentury Influences” • “Surface Pattern and Mixing Media” • “Capturing Emotion” • “Playing and Process: Materials and Experimentation.” This fascinating and evocative book is suitable for all ages and abilities, from students to experienced practitioners, or anybody seeking to inject new inspiration into their textile practice.