Interior designers and architects need to thoroughly understand fabric in order to satisfy clients and effectively meet the requirements of a given space. Fabric for the Designed Interior is a comprehensive text for students and professionals, addressing both residential and commercial interiors. The first part of the book places fabric in a historic context, examining its connection to the growth of civilization. Additional topics include sources of early fibers and filaments, yarn construction, carpets and rugs, and the evolving technologies of fabric production. Chapters with a practical orientation provide readers with the tools they need for successfully specifying fabric, dealing with environmental and safety concerns, understanding fabric and carpet care issues, working with bids and contracts, and learning strategies for navigating through showrooms and fabricating facilities. Leading designers, fabric manufacturers, and suppliers weigh in with their experiences, giving readers a clear idea of real-world expectations. Accompanying DVD.The instructional DVD that accompanies the text provides a tour of a 110,000-square-foot mill showing how woven and printed fabrics are produced. The construction of trimming is also featured. The process is tracked from the design studio to inspection. Elements of the tour include design conceptualization and artwork, dyeing of yarns, warping, and weaving on various types of looms including 19th-century and modern-day jacquards. The second part of the DVD takes the viewer to several to-the-trade showrooms in New York City. The focus of one design center showroom visit is to explain what prospective designers need to know about establishing an account, reading tags, costing, expectations of staff members, and ordering product. Showrooms specializing in both residential and contract fabric are toured. Mill and showroom employees are featured.This book also has a companion website: www.fabricforthedesignedinterior.comFeatures:-- Photos and illustrations throughout the text-- Key terms highlighted and defined-- Chapter summaries and additional resources-- Index for quick review-- Interviews with prominent interior designers and fabric manufacturers-- Swatch kit with study fabric samples-- Instructor's Guide includes teaching suggestions, projects, assignments, and other classroom aids-- Multi-featured DVD, including instructional tours through a fabric mill and design showrooms