The Complete Pattern Directory: 1500 Designs from All Ages and Cultures

If you are intersted in historical patterns this is a good book but you have to have some understanding of these methods and it is not a book you just pick up and read.

Wow, a real encyclopedia of patterns. Can’t wait to flip through every page for palettes and sheer inspiration…. Just what I wanted for my art library. My only issue is how heavy the book is. Like crazy heavy. But oh well. It is loaded with pattern choices. And I can use it to flatten artwork. A bonus, haha

If you’re on the fence about this book, I say go for it! It’s a beautifully printed book, filled cover to cover with color pictures of patterns both traditional and modern. While its title says it’s complete, as other reviewers have noted it’s not a tremendously multi-cultural book. That said, for the price point especially, it’s a very worthwhile spend for a pattern enthusiast or artist looking for inspiration. I am an artist and know I will return to this reference book again and again seeking inspiration for color combinations, motifs, etc. It’s just a lovely book and a useful reference.

N9ce book with a lot of inspiration!

Had it been titled "1500 Textile Patterns from Many Ages and Cultures" I wouldn't have ordered it. In one sentence buried deep In the introduction, the author admits the title is just a bit of harmless publisher-speak. More regrettable is that the actual focus really is on fabric designs, with a bit of wallpaper, tiles, etc. If you are looking for architectural, graphic arts or other kinds of patterns, this isn't your best source.My copy arrived in great condition. It is, however, a thick heavy book. The publisher did right by using sewn signatures, so it would be easy for a middling amateur to rebind it into two thinner volumes when it begins to fall apart.I say "when" because, caveats aside, the book is beautiful and makes for pleasant if not compulsive browsing. The spine -will- break if you open it abruptly anywhere near the middle, so search online for "how to open a book" (I'm serious).I got this for half off, so will keep for inspiration and ideas.

I am a new surface pattern designer and I wanted to have a reference to look at for inspiration and ideas and this has been amazing. I reference it daily. Not only is this book HUGE and heavy it must weight 10 pounds, (you can get a nice workout with it for sure) but it is filled to the brim with information about the history of surface patterns and beautiful historical art. I love flipping thru to see color choices and motifs and usually can create something of my own after spending a few minutes feeling inspired by others work. I love that it is organized into categories like animals or abstract which can be helpful if I am looking for an idea in a specific area, but most of the time I just randomly will pick a page a start reading and flipping. It is a beautiful book worthy of a space on your coffee table or desk. My boyfriend loves it too, we both enjoy looking thru it regularly and keep it handy. We haven’t found a true home for this book yet because it is always out and being used. If you are looking for a reference guide this is it.

Stunning - Gorgeous! I can spend hours exploring. I'm a surface pattern designer and this is a gem of a resource.

Such a well illustrated book. There is hundreds of reference inside. Modern and less modern. Very inspiring