Kilim Designs in Needlepoint – Book Review

Dorothy Wood, (Ward Lock,London), 1998 out of print

I didn’t buy this book when it came out, since Kilims aren’t my favorite type of rugs. I found it at the library a couple of weeks ago, and now I regret my initial decision. This is a lovely and creative book, well worth seeking out.

The book has a short, but thorough introduction going over the history of Kilim (flat woven rugs from the same area as “Oriental” rugs), the people who make them, and the yarns and designs used. In this section there are many inspiring pictures of rugs and motifs.

The projects in the book are divided into three chapters, sorted according to the area where the rugs originated. Each area has nine projects and, because the designs have many motifs and borders, you could uses sections of them to make many more. For each project there is a color picture of the finished item, a clear material list, stitching and finishing instructions, and large, color charts.

Some of the projects are large, some small. There is a huge variety of them, something not often found in needlepoint books. Along with the expected pillows, there are wallhangings, footstools, tote bags, book covers, neck purses, and so much more.

At the end of the book there are short chapters on materials, equipment, and techniques, wrapping up an excellent book.

It’s out of print and the prices for used copies look high. This isn’t surprising considering how wonderful this book is. If you find one at a library sale or thrift store, pick it up, you won’t regret it. And if you have one you’d like to sell me, let me know.