Page from Ein new kunstlich Modelbuch...(Page 37v) 1544

This is a page from a pattern book, printed in Cologne around 1530 by Peter Quentel. The image is made up of lines of hatched squares. But look closer – this isn't just an abstract image. Pattern books like this were essential resources for artisans. They allowed for the dissemination of complex designs to a wider audience, including those who may not have had formal training. The patterns found in these books were used in a variety of crafts, from embroidery and weaving to woodworking and metalwork. They were essentially early forms of instructions for ‘do it yourself’ projects. What’s really remarkable is the way that the printed image replicates the grid-like structure of textile production. The craftsperson could easily translate the pattern onto their material. It also reflects the early modern explosion of printmaking, making designs more accessible than ever before. So next time you see a pattern, remember the skilled labor and the intricate processes that brought it into being. It’s a reminder that craft and art are always intertwined.