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

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.

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

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

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.

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

The media could not be loaded. As an artist who occasionally makes patten designs, I found this book incredibly fascinating, and full of inspiration. This is a must have to all creative visual artists who are interested in illustration, and pattern design. The quality is outstanding, I like how big the book is, the pages feel nice, and the print quality is excellent. LOVE IT! If there would be a part 2 I’d definitely buy it too.

OMG. This book is over the top! After getting The Handbook of Regular Patters which I love, but is in black and white, then I get blasted with color! This book takes it to a whole different level! Wow! I have an interior designer friend. I will suggest this book. It might be hard to find the exact matches tho since many come from years ago. Many designers are highlighted too. This book is a thrill. Have Bitten By Witch Fever which mainly shows wallpaper made with arsenic. It’s much more limited. This book spans the entire globe. It is a virtual trip around the world telling when and where the fabric swatches were obtained. It’s just fascinating. I am just an artist looking for design ideas. I need a sabbatical to have time to get through this book! Highly recommended. I’m so sorry photos are not coming up. Just buy it. You will see.