In a delightful and thorough investigation, London's Victoria and Albert Museum staffer Parry recalls the artistic genesis and glory of the Arts and Crafts movement's fabric makers and their work. The author outlines the history of late 19th century England's textile industry, and shares her understanding of the atmosphere that gave rise to the Arts and Crafts Society 100 years ago. Like the patterns illustrated here, Parry spares no detail in tracing the artists whose work is associated with the movement.