The Woven Coverlets of Norway

The Woven Coverlets of Norway by Katherine Larson (2001)

This book about weaving techniques, patterns, tools, and materials is also about emigration and cultural heritage. It traces the centuries-old traditions of the Norwegian coverlet: decorative textiles that are both utilitarian and symbolic, used in ceremonies from christenings to funerals as well as in everyday living. Larson (a weaver and researcher based in Seattle) works in colorful bits and pieces about her own Norwegian American background as she describes the steps of cloth production. The many beautiful illustrations (both b&w and color) include images of coverlets as well as weavers and the places where they worked.