Where can I find out about techniques?

I am interested in starting to create altered art. I find myself drawn to the layering of fabrics, fiber and paper. I have seen 'Cloth, Paper, Scissors', and find the pieces beautiful. I have a feeling that quilted art would also captivate me. Not having any formal training in art, where do I go to learn about techniques, and what mediums are right to use? Thanks for your time.

Cloth, Paper, Scissors is a magazine that we cannot recommend highly enough. We would also recommend Somerset Studio, which is excellent for inspiration and information on resources. Both of these magazines are published in the United States, but are available in the United Kingdom from specialist suppliers and craft stores.

There are many good books available on this subject. We would especially recommend Alphabetica: An A-Z Creativity Guide for Collage and Book Artists by Lynne Perella. Despite its title, this is a definitive guide for all mixed-media artists, and contains information on techniques, inspirational photographs and much more.

You may also wish to consider joining one of the many special-interest groups on the internet, particularly on Yahoo! Members of these groups are always happy to share their knowledge and experience with others. There are many of them devoted to altered and mixed-media art.