What"s Ikat? "A method of tie-dying yarns that, when woven or otherwise constructed, produces patterns with characteristically blurred edges"--a subtle, painterly effect. Of interest to accomplished weavers, it"s a relatively difficult, complicated process, dependent on a good color sense and meticulous tieing-- seepage can add to or undermine desired results. Battenfield enumerates materials and procedures, offers ample historical illustrations, most made of cotton or silk, and many modern adaptations (striking even in black-and-white photographs) using less traditional materials--linen, Boulez mohair, heavy one-ply jute. A specialty item, attractive but demanding.