Toile: The Storied Fabrics of Europe and America

Toile--scenic fabric originally printed from copperplates--has been a decorating sensation since its introduction over two hundred and fifty years ago. Today, toile fabric is still highly sought after in both decorating and collecting circles. This comprehensive guide presents the history of toile, from its beginnings in eighteenth century Britain and France through its evolution in nineteenth and twentieth century America. The book includes hundreds of fascinating scenic designs shown in 225 beautiful color photographs. Antique, vintage, and reproduction toile patterns are described with an identification and value guide. The toile patterns are grouped by their distinctive themes: country life, romance, recreation, transportation, chinoiserie, classical myths, literary works, and American motifs. A useful resource section lists specialized antique toile dealers, books, fabric companies, museums, and retailers with phone numbers and website contacts. Everyone who loves toile fabrics will love this luscious book Vive la toile

Michele Palmer grew up in her father’s textile business. She researches, collects, and exhibits antique and vintage fabrics and maintains an Internet fabric museum at www.fabricmuseum.org. She lives in Connecticut.