Fusing Fabric: Creative Cutting, Bonding and Mark-making with the Soldering Iron Paperback – 14 Sept. 2007

This is an excellent book - full of ideas and inspiration for anyone interested in fusing fabrics. Techniques are very clearly explained and my tentative efforts have, for the most part, been reasonably successful, to the extent that I am fairly confident about moving forward. The only thing that slightly disappointed me was the lack of inclusion of Lutradur and techniques for using it. When I ordered the book I was under the impression that this was included in it but I have been through several times from cover to cover and there is no mention of it - so I have now to search out information on various uses for this product which is a little annoying but, to be honest, the wonderful ideas and explanations do make up for it. Margaret Beal has made a point of listing suitable tools, fabrics and threads which are suitable to use and whilst my efforts so far are not quite as sharp and neat as those illustrated in the book, the results are reasonably good and I expect to improve as I become more familiar with the techniques. I would definately recommend this book for those interested in the subject of fusing fabric.

I found the projects in this book as an art student suprising up to date and contemporary, i have also tried out a few with a lot of success. the method is totally origional (using a soldering iron to bond fabrics) and is reletively inexpensive. You need to buy felt and organza plus a special craft soldering iron for fabric but its well worth it. The book itself is easy to follow without being annoyingly or patronizingly simplistic- plus a serious emphasis on great photos and unique ways of embroidery and making things such as fibre art pieces and even lampshades.I've learnt alot and always refer back to it. You can buy the right equippment direct from the author (UK based) if you email/ring her and they're very friendly. It also saves you alot of time on applique and you dont have to use fabric glue ever again.

I am delighted with this book. Ms Beal's knowledge, expertise and willingness to show and share are inspirational. The techniques and possibilities are explained in complete detail, showing how the soldering iron becomes a magic wand for cutting, bonding and embellishing (mostly) synthetic fabrics. The photographs are clear and a good size. The suggested projects are encouraging and viable even for complete novices - myself included in that. I bought an iron from the author and she was very helpful with a query. The technique - which I had not considered at all - can be a starting point for so many exciting directions. As with any skill, practise and practise again to achieve fluency, but thanks to the first-rate instructions, success is within reach.

This is the sort of book you open and immediatley want to start having a play. Which was great for me as I had already purchased the soldering iron needed. You are taken through step by step how to use the iron and with what fabrics and then you just have fun playing. The book really is a course - you build up your knowledge as you complete each task and they are beautifully photographed projects. For anyone wanting to let go and have fun this is a wonderful book to get your teeth into.

Beautifully illustrated with projects to inspire you. A very good read which leaves you buzzing with ideas. Thank you.

Great book for inspiring new ideas. Clear visual illustrations allowing appreciation of technique without necessarily having to read 'how'. Great for inspiring ideas across different media and for those who like to skim read.

If you are interested in textile surface decoration and other types of decoration - this is a great book and is very informative and inspiring!

A bit disappointed with this book.Too complicated and over wordy. The ideas were not very exciting.Expensive (even at Amazon prices) for what it is.