Very good for all sorts of decorative effects and very creative variations. Be warned, however, that that is ALL this book does, though it is excellent if that is what you are looking for.. Most of the techniques illustrate some form of puckering or pleating, and Wolff comes up with effects I've never even dreamed of. Some are very time-consuming, like smocking. As I do not do a lot of decorative needlework (my current focus is tailoring and structure/construction), I have not found a use for many of the beautiful techniques in this book, but some would go very well in a textured quilt or as a detail on a piece of clothing. I keep this book as a just-in-case, since it leaves little to be desired for its subject matter. All illustrations are in black and white.

I love this book. so many techniques I had no idea existed. The book starts by showing photos of things others have created then shows you exactly how to create your own fabric manipulations. For me...very inspirational as well.

I love, love, love this book! It is well written, full of amazing examples, very readable. I've tried quite a few of the techniques in the book, found a few errors (such as one of the smocking patterns is not correct) but the description and photos are so accurate that it isn't difficult to figure out what to change. One of the most clever things about this book is that all the examples are done using the same undyed muslin fabric so you really focus on the fabric manipulation. For quilters, crafters, couture designers and all other sewers this book is a great "bible" of techniques to keep on hand. And so much fun to read through and imagine what you will make next!

If you are a sewer, crafter, quilter, embroiderer, or textile artist of any kind you will LOVE this book! I accidentally ordered 2, but once I got them I decided to hang onto the extra to give as a gift. Clear, simple explanations of a variety of techniques from the mundane to the fantastic. Each section shows you a technique, such as pleating, and progresses from the basics to the more artistic uses of that technique. Lots of pictures and diagrams, as well as explanations for both hand and machine work. It will make you start projects you didn't know you wanted to do!

Look, if you sew, if you work with fabric at all, this is a REALLY handy reference text. I've been eyeing it for 8 years and never buckled down and bought myself a copy. Finally I did, because again, the information in it is very useful and presented well. If you use fabric in any kind of capacity, this book will lend you a hand with all the ruffles and rutchings and gathers you need. (Especially amazing for quilters, I'm sure)