The PDF version does not work. After you buy it, you can't access anything, just get an error message.

Anyone who knows the word Språng knows Collingwood’s book is the most detailed book on the topic.  The question you may have is what the difference between the first and second edition is?  I am looking at a paper copy of the 1974 edition and comparing it to this digital version of the 1999 edition to confirm for you that whatever changes were made were very minor.  Every word of every chapter heading and subheading is identical.  Every page number is identical.  Every figure and plate is identical.  As far as I can tell without checking word by word for 300 pages, the only difference is the foreword to the second edition.  This digital version is absolutely worth buying and I am immensely grateful to all thise involved in making this happen!  My main complaint against this book is that Collingwood should have, in addition to naming locations where språng is made, given the local-language names for the technique in a neat list in the appendix or introduction.  I have started my own list, so far I have the following (if you know others, please add your own review!):

I am really delighted that this excellent book is now available again. For too long it has been out of print. It is written and described by a maker, and teacher, who has hands-on experience and practical understanding,

Most carefully researched, clearly and logically compiled by Peter, it was first published in 1974, long before we came to rely on the internet. This e-book is taken from the second edition 1999, with an additional paragraph in the forward noting how much more research had been done and many more examples of Sprang discovered and identified.

 

As with other techniques that Peter wrote about, he was very thorough, and even had to develop appropriate language in order to explain as many aspects as possible in words, even if these explanations are long. They are assisted by his crisp clear diagrams that show the anatomy of what is happening, together with how the hands hold and handle the threads. I feel sure that his medical training aided his clear thinking and the ability to analyse the structures so admirably.

 

The book begins with the simple and progresses through to complex, but he does not regard this as the best way to work. He encourages the maker to refer to the different techniques as required. The very detailed Contents pages, and Index are extremely helpful.

 

The black and white photographs, so crystal clear and sharp, are grouped together at the back, but meticulously referenced to relevant pages in the text,.as is the very extensive bibliography. In this each book has a note as to relevance to different aspects of Sprang. What an asset for the researcher.

 

Peter’s own examples of different Sprang structures, some show a range of textures, others using black and white threads, are a joy. He acknowledges all the support and encouragement he had from Noémi Speiser,. Her innovative timeless pieces are amazing and inspirational.

 

I really recommend this  book. It is a great addition to my library joins other later books on Sprang.

 

Jennie Parry

President of The Braid Society

President of The Association of Guild of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers.