Hobbies, Games & Quizzes Books

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Book SynopsisPut those clunky double-pointed needles down and learn to knit fabulous socks on your straight needles. Sharing her groundbreaking technique for straight-knit socks, Alice Curtis provides step-by-step instructions for 20 original patterns that feature a variety of yarns and an array of motifs ranging from cables to argyle. The possibilities for creative variations are endless, and each pattern can easily be adapted to any size. Get inspired and use your straight needles to knit stylish masterpieces that will keep your feet cozy and warm.

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Book SynopsisKnitting is a combination of skill, determination, and adaptability. Whether you’re looking for a suitable substitute yarn, trying to modify a pattern, or fixing a mistake, Margaret Radcliffe offers proven advice that will help you solve all of your knitting quandaries. With this definitive guide, you’ll not only learn how to adjust armholes and shape collars, but why certain techniques work best in different situations. Radcliffe gives you the confidence and inspiration that will help you become a better, happier, and more confident knitter.

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Book SynopsisMake your own custom-tailored and perfectly formed cold-process soaps! Learn how to use milk jugs and yogurt containers for molds, and how coffee, avocado, and even beer can add unique dimensions to your creations. This encouraging introduction to the art of soapmaking makes it simple to master the techniques you need to safely and easily produce your own enticingly fragrant soaps.

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Book SynopsisGet hooked on crochet and bring handcrafted charm to your home and wardrobe. Sara Delaney provides easy-to-follow illustrated instructions for joining, fastening off, selecting color schemes, and much more. Learn how to read crochet patterns and work a basic chain with single or double stitches. You’ll quickly be on your way to crafting your own pretty potholders and delicate scarves.

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Book SynopsisEdie Eckman’s classic Q&A reference book has been updated with helpful answers to even more of your burning crochet questions. From beginning basics like yarn styles, stitch types, and necessary tools to detailed outlines of more advanced techniques, you can trust Eckman to deliver straightforward guidance and plenty of encouragement. With illustrations for left-handed crocheters and tips for broomstick lace, linked stitches, crochet cables, and more, The Crochet Answer Book is full of expert advice on every page.

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Book SynopsisWith simple step-by-step instructions that require only basic sewing skills, Barbara Weiland Talbert shows you how to make your own beautiful and durable quilts. Taking you through the complete quilting process in an easy-to-follow sequence, Talbert shows you how to select a suitable design, choose the best fabric, cut shapes, piece together blocks, assemble the quilt top, and finish your project. You’ll quickly acquire the know-how and inspiration to create unique high-quality quilts that add a charming touch to your home.

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Book SynopsisThe key to perfect patchwork is getting all of the points to match up — which is no easy feat! Set yourself up for success with the rediscovered technique of English paper piecing. Using paper templates to guide your pattern, you can expertly fit your quilting shapes together before you even start sewing. All Points Patchwork takes you far beyond traditional hexagons and accommodates triangles, diamonds, octagons, and even curved shapes. Simple instructions for decorating clothing, bedding, and home decor open up astounding possibilities for quilters of all levels.

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Book SynopsisKnitted cables, with their three-dimensional twists and turns, are a common element in lots of patterns — but most patterns don’t include directions for executing them. Cable Left, Cable Right, by expert knitter Judith Durant, eliminates the mystery with detailed, in-depth instructions for creating 94 different styles of cable, from perfectly plain to fantastically fancy. Close-up photos and clear instructions teach you the techniques you need, including design options like braids, diamonds, and pretzels so you can make your cables truly one-of-a-kind. This book is the perfect companion to any knitting pattern featuring cables, giving you the information and skills to make polished, beautiful, and unique cables for any project.

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Book SynopsisWhether you’re working socks from the toe up or from the cuff down, designer Donna Druchunas’s complete, step-by-step instructions make sock knitting easy, enjoyable, and successful. You’ll learn several approaches for getting started, and you’ll also discover how to shape comfortable toes, create heels that fit, and ensure stretchy cuffs that can be counted on to keep your socks up. Druchunas’s useful tips and tricks include working confidently with double-pointed needles, knitting socks on one or two circular needles, and even knitting two socks at the same time. Once you’ve mastered these basic techniques, you can adapt them to create your own custom sock designs.

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Book SynopsisIrresistible! This collection of 101 projects makes it easy and fun to crochet adorable clothes, toys, and accessories for the babies and toddlers you love. Each project uses just one skein of yarn, many take just a few hours to complete, and plenty are suitable for beginners. Hats and caps, bootees and socks, mitts, dresses, tops and bottoms — plus blankets, bibs, soft toys, bottle cozies, diaper bags, and more — there’s something here for every baby! These original patterns were contributed by 54 designers around the world, and each one comes with complete instructions, charts, schematics, and beautiful photographs.

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Book SynopsisUsing words, drawing, collage, and observation-based list-making, award-winning author Emily K. Neuburger highlights the many paths into journaling. Her 60 interactive writing prompts and art how-tos help you to expand your imagination and stimulate your creativity. Every spread invites a new approach to filling a page, from making a visual map of a day-in-my-life to turning random splotches into quirky characters for a playful story. ?It’s the perfect companion to all those blank books and an ideal launchpad to explore creative self-expression and develop an imaginative voice — for anyone ages 10 to 100! Teachers' Choice Award Winner Mom's Choice Awards Winner Foreword INDIES Gold Award Winner National Parenting Product Awards Winner

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Book SynopsisYou love to crochet, but you’re tired of the granny square and other predictable projects. Let celebrated crochet teacher Sara Delaney help you expand your skills while showing you how to create custom-fit wearable accessories. Delaney’s unique, flexible formulas let crocheters of all levels easily design scarves, cowls, fingerless mitts, mittens, gloves, hats, and socks. With fill-in-the-blank templates and a stitch dictionary, you can use your favorite yarn and stitch pattern, and make accessories that fit perfectly. Delaney offers a starter course in the technique with 18 of her own original patterns, along with the formulas she used to create them. The companion online calculator helps create your customized patterns even more quickly!

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Book SynopsisNow in paperback! Imagine a softly striped crib blanket knit in the comforting colors of the nursery. Or a sophisticated cashmere wrap featuring rich jewel tones that set off a favorite black dress. Knitting teacher and author Margaret Radcliffe presents a world of color techniques in a single comprehensive reference that you’ll consult every time two or more yarn colors are in play. Stitchers of every ability level will love the color-combining methods and professional secrets revealed in The Essential Guide to Color Knitting Techniques. Multicolor knitting techniques are explained with step-by-step illustrations and photographs accompanied by instructive text. Complete chapters on stripes, stitch effects, succeeding with multicolor yarns, stranded knitting, and intarsia cover the theory and how-to behind each method and offer creative solutions for handling tangled yarn, estimating yarn quantities of each color, holding on to all those ends, and employing stunning finishing techniques. A final chapter describes more unusual techniques, such as helix, shadow, mosaic, and modular knitting.

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book SynopsisMath and art might seem like completely different worlds - especially to the number-phobic. But where they intersect, we can find the fractal growth of a snowflake, the spiral seeds of a sunflower, and dazzling abstract designs born of patterns and randomness. Here are 65 math-inspired illustrations to meditate on as you colour, from the Sri Yantra (an ancient Hindu mandala of nine entwined triangles) to a page full of Penrose tiles (two shapes that can cover an infinite surface - but in a sequence that never perfectly repeats)! These Patterns of the Universe reveal their underlying logic as they are filled in, so colouring becomes an act of discovery. Bestselling author Alex Bellos and mathematical illustrator Edmund Harriss include friendly explanations of the math that add to the wonder. Plus, 13 bonus activities at the back of the book invite colourists to help create their own one-of-a-kind designs!

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Book SynopsisDon’t be square—discover exciting log cabins in varied shapes and formations! Best-selling authors Natalia Bonner and Kathleen Whiting put an imaginative new twist on the classic block with bold colors and dramatic lines. Packed with possibilities, this collection offers 20 quilts each in 3 sizes, with a bonus chapter on throw pillows and shams. Quick-sew techniques (no curves here!) make it easy to stitch big quilts. Whether you’ve been quilting for months, years, or decades, these fresh layouts with straightforward construction are sure to inspire!Trade ReviewThese 20 quilts are a modern development of traditional Log Cabin blocks. They are simple blocks in clear bright colours. Only three techniques are used, Snowball block, half square triangles and pieced strips. There is an introduction to assembling the quilts but no quilting instructions, nevertheless the clear photos show the quilting designs. Each quilt has three size options; baby, a throw (60" by 72") and a bed quilt plus some cushions. There are alternative colourways for each quilt. It would be suitable for a beginner as the instructions and diagrams are easy to follow. * British Patchwork and Quilting *Table of ContentsSewing Basics 20 Quilt Patterns Barn Cabins Cabin Keys Dappled Dazzle Dilation Downtown Cabins Floating Cabins Framed Cabins Incline Jawbreaker Math Class Cabins Metropolis Nonchalant Outstretched Peaches & Cream Pinwheel Cabins Pushover Radiance Stacked Up Typhoon Pillows Resources About the Authors

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Book SynopsisStitch a scrap-friendly quilt and pillow inspired by Jennifer Sampou's travels to Thailand.

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Book SynopsisFavourite bag designers and top bloggers share 15 unique organisers, all tailored to a specific purpose.

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Book SynopsisFree-motion fans, rejoice! Natalia Bonner is back with a follow-up to her wildly successful first book that boasts 50 new modern, sophisticated designs that encourage quilters of all skill levels to stretch their skills on a home sewing machine. A variety of simpler straight-line and free-motion motifs invite beginners to dive in, while designs that modernise more traditional patterns will challenge intermediate and advanced sewists. Fullsize patterns can be used for practice or marking quilt tops, and tips on a wide range of topics—supplies, embellishments, layering, and basting—open up a world of endless variations.Trade ReviewAchieve professional free-motion quilting results with this superb book. There are 50 contemporary designs for all skill levels. Use the full-size patterns for practice or to mark quilt tops. These free-motion patterns are the quilts of my dreams. This book not only gives the patterns, it talks about placement, scale and other design considerations. There's a good basics section, great patterns and superb layout and design with clear instructions. This book simplifies free-motion and walking-foot machine quilting designs for professional results that are achievable at home. Step by step instructions help to make the designs fool-proof and full-size template patterns are given for some of the designs. This is an excellent book for the confident machine quilter. Fresh and inspirational. * Karen Platt- yarnsandfabrics.co.uk *As I am new to quilting the free motion part is the biggest thing I have been scared of. However Natalia has taken the fear out of it and really helped to see how each it can be if you follow some simple steps. In seeing this book I have already ordered Natalia's previous book; Beginner's Guide to Free-Motion Quilting. Natalia takes you through a journey in this book. No matter what level of quilter you are I am sure you will be able to learn new free-motion techniques and designs that really will make your quilts pop. I don't feel this is a book you just want to flick through. This is the sort of book that you pick up and decide which design you want on your quilt and you just get started.The book isn't around long arm quilters. This is for the home quilter who just wants to expand their skills and designs to make your quilts even more special. The thing I love about Natalia and the book is she takes you through each design and how to achieve it but then uses the designs and techniques to add to others. You can build up the designs and create a picture or feel to your quilt. My husband complains that my designs are simple enough and that I don't use enough blocks of basic colour. With this book I feel confident that I could fill the space with free-motion quilting and make a quilt that really does show off the colours. I also like the Natalia uses flashes of colour in a quilt design and encompasses them with the free-motion quilting to give a whole new feel to the quilt. This book has so much to offer to any quilter. Why don't you see if you can expand your free-motion quilting? * Crochet Addict UK *Table of ContentsIntroduction Machine Quilting Basics QUILTING DESIGNS ALL-OVER DESIGNS AND BACKGROUND FILLERS Arcs and Circles * Rainbow * Macaroni * Noodles * Pearls * Polka Dots * Orange Peel Straight Lines * Checkerboard * Modern Cross-Hatching * Textured Straight Lines * Chevrons Soft Rectangles * Tubes * Maze Wavy LInes * Waves * Ocean Waves Swirls * Swirly Feathers * Pebble Swirls * Wavy Swirls * Angel Hair * Seaweed BORDERS Triangles * Modern Embellished Triangles * Cones * Perpendicular Straight Lines * Point-to-Point Chevrons * Point-to-Point Zigzags Straight lines * Mod Lines * Faux Piano Keys Feathers * Corner Feathers * Faux Trapunto Feathers Faux Scallops Text SQUARE BLOCKS Orange-Peel Variations * Starburst * Double Orange Peel * Triple Orange Peel Echoed Feathered Circle Straight-Line Motifs * Square Spiral * Diamonds * Alternating Straight Lines * Sunrise TRIANGLE BLOCKS Small Half-Square Triangles * Little Feathers * Arches * Arrows * Off-the-Block Lines Large Half-Square Triangles * Double-Feather Swag * Pebble Feather * Small Swag * Point-to-Point Arrow * Dashes and Ovals * Stripes Flying Geese * Point-to-Point Rays * Point-to-Point Straight Lines How to Choose Quilting Designs Patterns Resources About the Author

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Book SynopsisQuilt the illusion of stained glass. This rich resource of approachable techniques from expert Allie Aller will let you jump right in with 6 stained glass—style quilts, from dazzling wallhangings to throws and bedcovers—full-size pattern pullout included. Outline pieced and appliquéd shapes 3 different ways—using trims, couching, and bias fabric strips. Explore your own ideas for both simple and intricate stained glass designs, and set yourself up for sewing success with tips on organizing your sewing space, using a design wall, and more. 'To sum up a lovely book that will have quilters itching to get started.' www.myshelf.comTrade ReviewMay 17 A couple of months ago, I was on a visit to Chichester Cathedral and saw the stained glass window by Marc Chagall in all its glowing ruby-red splendour, backlit by the afternoon sun. I stood transfixed. Allie Aller draws inspiration for her stained glass quilts from many sources, but the landscape windows by Louis Comfort Tiffany are a particular favourite and inspired the Tiffany’s Peacock quilt on the cover of her book. This is the most advanced project and comes with a full-sized pull out template to create a wall hanging. Whilst you could jump right in with this one, anyone new to stained glass quilting might want to work through the opening chapters, which outline the different leading techniques, fabric selection, and developing your own pattern. Allie describes in her introduction how she spent several years in the 1990s developing ideas for stained glass quilts and then moved into crazy quilting and hand stitching. Her recent return to the technique was inspired by the Modern Quilt movement and the graphic nature of stained glass quilting with its focus on composition, colour, line, shape, and fabric. This is evident in the Mondrian’s Window couch quilt project using different thicknesses of leading to outline bold colour blocks. If I ever get around to making this, it’ll go on my wall! * Popular Patchwork *Stained glass quilts have been around for a long time, but here is a book that “reimagines” them by updating the whole idea and making it more versatile. Why only use traditional materials when there are so many other choices, and why only use traditional methods when there are all sorts of other options? One of the reasons why handcrafts are currently so popular is the way so many of them have been reinvented for modern people’s time, tools and tastes. While traditional quilts are lovely mixing it up a bit and coming up with something fresh and new is the best way of keeping things up to date and this book manages all that well. The book begins by looking at patterns and ways of being inspired by them such as coloring books, old embroidery transfers and searching the Internet. The next chapter talks you through the process of making a typical stained glass pattern, from simplifying a drawing to resizing it, making into a set of templates and transferring the pattern to a background fabric. Then there is a look at “leading” options from basic iron-on to less conventional choices such as yarn and ribbons and how to use them complete with practice exercises. When you are ready there are six projects to make with patterns on a sheet at the back for a throw, bed and couch quilts and wallhangings. Everything you need is listed and most of the steps have a photograph so you can see what your work should look like. This is not a book on how to quilt for beginners; there are many of those around (check out the Search Press catalog) but a book that shows quilters how to do this particular style. Basic quilting knowledge is assumed but you don’t have to be too advanced to be able to tackle these projects. Subjects for the projects include a Tiffany style peacock, floral welcome wreath, Frank Lloyd Wright and Mondrian windows, leafy vines and abstract shapes inspired by wind and sun. There is a list of suppliers at the back if you are in the US and even a helpful look at good work habits including organizing a work table and keeping things tidy. To sum up a lovely book that will have quilters itching to get started. * myshelf.com *Creating a stained glass effect in quilting is fascinating. There are only 6 projects in this book from quilts to wall decor. There are also 3 ways to create the 'leading' without bias tape. The front cover shows a beautiful peacock and typical stained glass colours in the border of the cover that belong to another quilt called 'Mondrian's Window'. The back cover shows a beautiful 'vine' in gorgeous greens. These form the best three projects in the book in my opinion. Chapter One deals with design sources and strategies; the sources might surprise you, Chapter Two with Glass and Leading supplies and approaches - any experienced quilter will probably already have tried these methods, especially if they do applique. In the close-up of Frank's Window you can see how far out the leading is (and again twice in the instructions) and Chapter Three with Techniques and Exercises including a Gallery with some superb samples and Chapter Four with Work Flow plus Projects. The instructions for making the projects are clear. * yarnsandfabrics.co.uk *Table of ContentsIntroduction Chapter One: Design Sources and Strategies How to find, enlarge, and transfer designs to suit your needs A small stained glass project, from start to finish Chapter Two: Glass and Leading: Supplies and Approaches Fabrics, tools, and notions to use Couching, appliqued ribbon, and iron-on leading Chapter Three: Glass and leading techniques, with practice exercises Detailed explanations and practice sessions lead you through the three techniques How to set up your workspace for best results Gallery Chapter Four: Workflow and Good Habits Project One: Windy Sunshine; a summer throw Project Two: Leaf Vine; a bed quilt Project Three: Mondrian's Window; a couch quilt Project Four: Window for Frank; an improvisational couch quilt Project Five: Welcome Wreath; a wool and cotton wallhanging Project Six: Tiffany's Peacock; a classic stained glass wallhanging Conclusion Resources About the Author

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Book SynopsisDon't crumble under the weight of your scraps—embrace them with best-selling author, Quiltmaker columnist, and esteemed teacher Bonnie K. Hunter. Piece 12 unique, multicoloured scrap quilts in Bonnie's signature style. Turn leftover strips into usable fabric that’s readily available for projects with the easy-to-use Scrap User's System. This complete guide to scrap quilting includes full-size templates, 2 paper-piecing patterns, and a full chapter on quiltmaking basics.Trade ReviewFeb 17 I have scraps for sure but I wouldn't call myself a scrap addict. I know people who at the end of a quilt class go through the rubbish pots seeking out unwanted scraps for their stash - and after reading this book, I can now understand why. In the first chapter, author and 'scrap expert' Bonnie Hunter provides a comprehensive guide to the sewing techniques used throughout the book, which include methods of sorting and cutting scraps so that they are ready to use. I am thinking this may be the answer to my 'scrap drawer' issues of overcrowding and rumpled fabric. This chapter also explains how to make half-square triangles, quarter square triangles and flying geese using quick piecing methods that are used throughout the quilt projects. The remaining chapters each host a project. The quilts are colourful and as scraps are used the pieces tend to be quite small. The quilts have a very 'Traditional American' look to them but would suit any colours in your scrap box. I think the challenge of scrap quilts is just to go with the colours you have and trust that it will work, this certainly seems to be Bonnie's philosophy. Each project starts with a summary of the colour choice and design from Bonnie, explaining why she chose the scraps and how she sorted them. The instructions for making the quilt blocks are very clear and there is a handy section called 'at a glance' that illustrates each block part and the pressing instructions. The projects are completed with the assembly of the quilt with no specific guidance given for the quilting. I am not sure I'd want to make twelve scrap quilts but think it more likely I will start to sort my scraps to make one or two. The book is very colourful, well written and certainly makes you think about the scrap pile in your stash. If you're a scrap addict, its definitely one for you to read and enjoy. * Popular Patchwork *

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Book SynopsisRooted in the Victorian era, crazy quilting has a powerful allure for today's quilters, who use it to let loose and tell a unique story with fabric. Embrace crazy quilting with 35 must-know stitches and endless variations, shown in clear, step-by-step photographs for both right- and left-handed stitchers. Fine artist Sharon Boggon reveals design fundamentals to guide you in your process, so you can sew thoughtful, visually appealing blocks. Learn the theory and process behind this fascinating art - how to choose fabrics, piece stitch-and-flip blocks and embellish seams with embroidery, beads, buttons and charms.Trade ReviewAre you a magpie hoarder of scraps of fabric, fancy threads, shiny beads and odd charms? Do you have leftovers from other projects, broken jewellery or old clothes? If the answer is a loud yes (and it usually is with crafters) this is the book for you. Repurpose all this junk (ahem stash of treasures) into something beautiful with this useful primer. I had heard of crazy quilts but was unsure what they were or how they were made. You don’t need to be a quilter to make them or even own a sewing machine (although it helps) as after the irregular shaped pieces have been stitched onto a base the real fun begins. It is all about surface decoration, taking a few simple embroidery stitches a long way and having fun with your stash. This is not a book of projects as the nature of crazy quilting does not lend itself to this type of thing; it is all about what you have and what you want to do with it. Instead the book guides you through what you need, how to do the basic part and then lets rip with a glorious range of different ways of embellishing your seams. There are plenty of helpful diagrams and lots of examples of sections from finished work; it would have been great to have seen a Victorian sample but this is all modern. It is the sort of book filled with color and instantly doable things that make a crafter want to raid their hoard and make something. The author’s approach is very hands-on and suitable for anybody who has this type of stash, basic sewing skills and plenty of time. However, as this is a craft that can be done on a lap it is ideal for relaxing with in front of the TV even this might not be a problem. Highly recommended. * Myshelf.com *When I heard the Sharon Boggon was writing a book on crazy quilting, I knew I had to have it! I pre-ordered it, and when it arrived, it flew to the top of my book stack. Sharon blogs – and has for a long, long time! – at Pintangle about crazy quilting and other artistic and stitch-related interests. Her encrusted approach to crazy quilting has fascinated me for years. I love to look at her elaborate crazy quilt squares, with exquisitely arranged ground fabrics, perfectly placed and spaced stitches, ingenious stitch combinations, fantastic textures, and judiciously and tastefully added embellishments. Her work is really a feast for the eyes! And while I’m not a crazy quilter myself (I did dabble a bit with it – and goldwork – here), I love to look at beautifully executed crazy quilting. There’s a lot to learn in crazy quilting that can be applied to other types of stitchery, too. I appreciate especially the freedom of crazy quilting. I think it’s a perfect outlet for creative stitchers who like to sew and who enjoy playing with fabric, threads, beads, ribbons, texture, and color. Visual Guide to Crazy Quilting Design is a colorful volume that is bound to catch the eye of any needlework enthusiast. The title relays a little bit about what’s inside, but this is much more than just a design book. It’s crazy quilting from start to finish, made accessible to the beginner but super useful for the advanced CQ-er as well. The book covers a lot of content in its 144 pages! Not only will you learn all about the materials – fabrics suitable for crazy quilting, threads, embellishments, tools, and the works – but you’ll also learn about designing squares (and layouts), constructing them, planning embellishment, color choices, textures, movement, stitches, decorative treatments, and pretty much everything that you need to know to create outstanding crazy quilt projects. Throughout the book, the reader is treated to photos of Sharon’s gorgeous work. I remember when I first saw the piece above on Sharon’s former blog “In a Minute Ago,” and was struck by it. I love the colors, the arrangement, the needle painting! I think Sharon is one of those natural-born teachers who not only easily spreads enthusiasm for her subject, but who knows how to make the subject approachable and achievable. She breaks down method and technique into logical, manageable steps, taking the learner from basics to beyond seamlessly. There’s no huff-and-puff, no unachievable loftiness. It’s as if you’re on an mild, pleasurable stroll down the path of learning, and the next thing you know, you get it! Visual Guide to Crazy Quilting Design is written in a really easy, friendly tone that’s just plain nice to read. Aside from the excellent instructional content that you’d hope for from any technique book, I think this is what I like best about the book. From the learner’s perspective, there are a few sections in the book that raise it above other books on the same subject. After all, there are lots of books on crazy quilting out there! For example, I especially appreciate this section on movement. The whole notion of “movement” in visual art can be applied to more than just crazy quilting. Once you consider movement in design, you’ll find yourself applying the concepts in this section to other pieces of needlework, too! Sharon thoroughly discusses and instructs on the structure of squares in crazy quilting designs and how to consider the placement of embellishments in a way that they will draw the eye around the piece and encourage it to see and explore. She demonstrates how to create something that, although it might be seemingly disordered due to heavy embellishment, is actually pleasantly ordered so that the eye makes sense of it almost upon contact. While crazy quilting often celebrates an abundance of decoration that can often seem haphazard and perhaps even “overdone,” Sharon shows how the judicious placement of key decorative elements brings an order to the disorder, making a piece a real pleasure to explore rather than just a mass of confusion. Another section that I really like in this book is the section on color. Lately, I’ve been drawn to any book that discusses color. Color Confident Stitching, which I reviewed earlier this year, has been my go-to book lately when I want to think about color in designs. I’ve also reviewed Color Confidence in Embroidery, which discusses the subject at length and provides needlepainting projects that demonstrate beautifully the blending of colors in embroidery. I always learn something from every author’s take and interpretation of color. Sharon has a real knack for color combinations that work, and so I was eager to read this section of the book. It doesn’t disappoint – I picked up some good information and perspectives for making color choices. Have you ever noticed that there are creative folks who have an intuitive, natural sense for color, while other people rely on more of an almost-scientific approach to the subject? I think you’ll find Sharon’s section on color pretty helpful, if you flounder on the question of color in needlework design in general! Of course you will find thorough information on embellishments other than thread and beads. There’s a good section on lace, braids, doilies, hankies – and other stuff! – and how to use it all effectively… …and plenty of luscious silk ribbon instruction! The technical instruction in the book is excellent – lots of clear step-by-step photos that will make learning a breeze! There’s a thorough stitch dictionary with classic stitches and all kinds of variations and lovely combinations. Finally, what every crazy quilter craves – lots of inspiration for seam treatments! You’ll find pages and pages of seam treatment ideas! Again, these can be applied to other types of needlework besides crazy quilting, too. They’d be really fun in band sampler format, if you just wanted to practice or play with bands of stitches. In a Nutshell A terrific book! And on so many levels! All pros, no cons. https://www.needlenthread.com/2017/08/visual-guide-to-crazy-quilting-design-book-review.html * Mary Corbet's Needle n Thread *Table of ContentsIntroduction The Process of Making a Crazy Quilt Project Choosing a Suitable Crazy Quilt Project Part 1 Crazy Quilting and the Encrusted Style The Foundation Fabric How Much Fabric? Fabric Choice Fabric Type Using Men's Ties Design Considerations When Choosing Fabric Sourcing Crazy Quilting Materials Part 2 Using Design to Take your Viewer on a Journey Emphasis and Subordination Movement Using Repetition to Create Balance Using Color Using Composition and Design to Manage the Bling Part 3 Piecing a Crazy Quilt Project Stitch-and-Flip Foundation Piecing Embellishment Decisions Including Lace, Ribbon, Braids, Doilies, Hankies, and More Adding Prairie Points Part 4 Stitching Starting and Finishing Thread Needles Silk Ribbon Embroidery Beads Marking Your Fabric Decorating Your Seams and Designing Stitches Combining Stitches Part 5 Stitches and Techniques Foundation Stitches Buttonhole Stitch (Blanket Stitch) Chevron Stitch Cretan Stitch Feather Stitch Herringbone Stitch Linear Stitches for Motifs and Flourishes Backstitch Chain Stitch and Chain Stitch in Silk Ribbon Couching Running Stitch Stem Stitch Motif Stitches Bullion Knot Buttonhole Wheel Detached Chain Stitch Fargo rose Fly stitch French knot Leaf stitch Straight Stitch Part 6 Adding Beads, Sequins Buttons and Charms to Your Block Using Beads, Sequins, and All Those Fun Shiny Bits! Bead Tassels Using Sequins Creatively Don't Forget to Add a Spider! When to Stop About the Author

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Book SynopsisSew 19 simply embellished projects (with full-size patterns), including a card holder, coin purses, earbud holder, small wallets, pouches and organisers. These cute and useful bags are perfect for holding and organising all of your little things. Personalise the organisers with adorable embellishments and appliqués and use up your scraps, trims and other odds and ends in the process. Whip one up in an afternoon or bring your handwork with you - small pieces make these projects fun and easy to work on anywhere. Great to give as gifts or keep for yourself, these tiny bags will bring a smile to anyone's face. 'This is a fabulous glossy book with 19 projects to make. Sew Small has missed nothing out. It is easy to follow and each project can be done in a few hours or more.' Tracy Shepherd at Postcard Reviews '... I love making bags of various kinds... so when I saw this book, I thought I'd give it a go to see if it might have some different kinds of projects for me to make, and I wasn't disappointed!' https://janetgranger.wordpress.com 'The instructions have plenty of diagrams showing what to do and everything is laid out with double spacing giving it an airy, easy to read appearance.' www.myshelf.com Trade ReviewOctober 2017 Jennifer Heynen has a lovely blog, jenniferjangles.blogspot.co.uk and her mission is to make the world a happier place. This great little book taps into her talent for making cute, colourful objects that make you just want to smile! These are all mini-bag projects designed to organise the little things in your life and include: a Whale Coin Purse, a Flip Flop Travel bag, a Log Jewellery Roll and a Key-ring Coin Purse. Jennifer says in her intro that little bags are one of her favourite things to sew because in an afternoon, “You’ll have something useful to keep your things where they need to be.” As somebody that regularly buys chargers, combs and holiday Euros having been unable to locate the originals, this book certainly appeals. There are masses of great gift ideas and a whole host of ways to use up your scraps in this beautifully illustrated book. To start with there are pages on fabrics, trims and embellishments as well as advice on hand stitching and embroidery techniques. All the projects include three or four pages of easy-to-follow instructions, and pullout templates are included for some of the designs. Many of the projects include zips so if this is not your forte, be prepared to give them a go. I rather fell in love with the Ladybug Bag, a tiny clip on bag for loose change or receipts that will become an indispensible add on to my everyday shoulder bag. Sew small yet sew good! * Popular Patchwork *September 2017 It is really is true that you can never have too many bags, so here are 19 more to add to your collection immediately. From handy wallets and ladybug coin purses to clutches and log-shaped jewellery roll, there's something for everyone here. * Sew *You can have a place for everything when you make the bags in this book. As the subtitle says you can “stash your coins, keys, earbuds, jewelry and more” in the pretty wee bags which are not only fairly simple to make but are a great way of using up oddments left over from larger projects. All the bags in here are rather special and many do not even look very bag like. There is one shaped like a house, another like an ice cream cone, a ladybug, whale, flower and even my own favorite a log. As well as plain machine and hand sewing you can have a go at appliqué, patchwork and embroidery plus enjoy working with lots of fun trims. This book is aimed at improvers and up; anybody who knows their way around a sewing machine and has done some sewing ought to be able to make these projects. At the beginning there are instructions on how to add trims, topstitch to make appliqué and so a few embroidery stitches namely running stitch, backstitch and French knots. It does help to have another embroidery book handy however (check out the Search Press catalog) as in the second project you will need to know a couple more. Each project has a large photograph of the finished item plus a list of what you need and a cutting list with sizes in imperial. The instructions have plenty of diagrams showing what to do and everything is laid out with double spacing giving it an airy, easy to read appearance. All the projects have quite a number of steps too which is ideal for anybody who has not done much in this line before. The bags would make excellent gifts, and show well how things that are practical can also be very pretty. * myshelf.com *I’ve recently come across this book, called “Sew Small: 19 little bags” by Jennifer Heynen, so I thought I’d review it for you. Anyone who has been following my blog for a while will know that I love making bags of various kinds (usually bags for keeping sewing tools in), so when I saw this book, I thought I’d give it a go to see if it might have some different kinds of projects for me to make, and I wasn’t disappointed! The book is more of a sewing projects book than an embroidery one, as the title suggests, but if you haven’t ever done much sewing, that’s OK, as the projects are clearly explained, with lots of diagrams for each one. It’s got a modern look to the projects, too – not always my thing (I’m an old-fashioned kind of person!), but I did like the innovative projects in this book enough to want to make some of them for friends who really love the contemporary style. And I can see myself adapting some of them, too – just by changing the fabric, a project could easily have a more retro feel to it. The nineteen projects for the little bags cover all kinds of things – small wallets, a coin purse, a bag to keep your ear buds in, and several bags that are just….well….bags! I like the way that the contents page lists the projects in a visual format, as well as the more normal text version – it makes it so much easier to find what you’re looking for. The book starts by covering the basics – fabrics to use, threads and trims such as ric-rac braid that can be applied, beads and buttons, and basic embroidery stitches. These are VERY basic stitches – Jennifer suggests people find online tutorials if they want to use stitches other than these really basic ones of running stitch, backstitch and French knots. But that’s great if you’re a beginner, or want a project finished quickly. She also covers how to assemble the projects both using a sewing machine or by hand stitching. Then on to the projects themselves – each one has a materials list, a cutting list, and instructions with colour diagrams. There aren’t any photos of the projects themselves during assembly – just the finished item – but the ‘process diagrams’ make it very clear what you need to do. I should think each one could be completed in a day – even the more complicated projects, if you gather all your materials together first. There’s a lift-out sheet at the back of the book with all the pattern pieces shown at full size, which I think is a real bonus for a project book. It annoys me when patterns are shown in other books with a tiny note that says ‘enlarge by 150%’ or something. How frustrating, when you just want to get started and make something! So, this is one of the biggest pluses of the book, for me. There’s also a note inside the front cover which gives permission to photocopy the lift-out sheet (but not the text of the main part of the book). There are a couple of projects which really caught my eye: This one is a jewellery roll in the shape of a log. I love jewellery rolls, and actually have several, which I do use when I’m travelling. I need my jewellery to be protected, and this one would do that. This second project REALLY got me! A little drawstring bag, only five inches high. Simple shapes are appliqued to the walls for the doors, windows and plants. A cord goes around the top, pulling the roof sides together. I think this is the one I’ll make first. It would be good to put more embroidery on it, I think, in the Carolyn Pearce style, but that’s just me, Full review and Images: https://janetgranger.wordpress.com/2017/05/25/book-review-sew-small-heynen/ * Janet Granger *Sew 19 simply embellished projects (with full-size patterns), including a card holder, coin purses, earbud holder, small wallets, pouches and organisers. These cute and useful bags are perfect for holding and organising all of your little things. Personalise the organisers with adorable embellishments and appliqués and use up your scraps, trims and other odds and ends in the process. Whip one up in an afternoon or bring your handwork with you – small pieces make these projects fun and easy to work on anywhere. Great to give as gifts or keep for yourself, these tiny bags will bring a smile to anyone’s face. This is fabulous glossy book with 19 projects to make. With colorful illustrations, ideas and advice on fabric, embellishments and stitching, Jennifer Heynen’s Sew Small is an ideal book to work from. Sew Small comes with a double sided pattern sheet that has all you need for each of the items. Full review and images: https://tracyshephard.wordpress.com/2017/05/23/sew-small-19-little-bags-jennifer-heynen/ * Tracy Shephard - Postcard Reviews *19 little bags to organize your life. From make-up to money, brushes and charge holders and more. Being organized need not be boring - take a look at the fun wallets, bags and purses. What could be cuter than the whale coin purse or the birdcage bag. Or the fab drawstring birdhouse bag. These tiny treasures are ideal to carry your essentials. You can use small scraps to create useful gifts. Book contents include fabrics, threads and trims, embellishments plus 19 great projects. Instructions include a full-size colour photo of the finished item, materials, cutting and written instructions with colour line drawings. Measurements for cutting fabrics are given and there is a pull out template section included. I enjoyed this book. * yarnsandfabrics.co.uk *Table of ContentsIntroduction Fabrics Ribbons, Threads, and Trims Buttons, Beads, and More Attaching Embellishments Projects Card Holder Key-Ring Coin Purse Ice Cream Ear Bud Holder Wrap Around Wallet Ladybug Bag Birdcage Bag Whale Coin Purse Small Wallet Drawstring House Bag Stand-Up Flower Pouch Ruffled Brush Bag Bangle Wristlet Journaling Wallet Wallet Clutch Log Jewelry Holder Clear Zipper Pouch Tablet Bag At the Beach Purse Flip-Flop Travel Bag About the Author

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Book SynopsisA natural follow-up to the best-selling Create Your Own Free-Form Quilts, this book applies Rayna's no rules, no mistakes, no stress style to modern quilting. Starting with strips and geometric shapes, you'll cut and sew without patterns, required yardage, or complicated diagrams. This freeing method lets you create modern quilts organically as you follow your instincts, ask "what if...?", and experiment with scale, colour, value and placement.Trade ReviewSubtitled 'Modern Quilting With No Rules and No Rulers' this book shows you how to improvise to make modern quilts. It includes modern design, getting started, improvising in different ways, inspiration and a question and answer section. It's all about cutting freehand, letting go of perfection, not following patterns but creating and experimenting. Rayna's favourite two words are the maxim of many a designer 'What if?' In this book she looks at playing with shape. You'll come to understand the way a designer's mind works. It's not quite 1,2,3, it's more 1a or 1b, what if, oh yes 1c is better. It's about looking at possibilities and knowing which one makes the best quilt, or if you have enough ideas for a series. Includes Improv Paper Piecing without patterns, wonky blocks and even using leftovers. There is an inspirational gallery too. Recommended. -- Karen Platt * www.karenplatt.co.uk *Wow - what a book! I have to say I sat and read this whole book over a weekend and am including in my book tally for 2018 because of that. I do mean read - this is much more than a pattern book and is the first time I have read such a book from cover to cover. You could also dip in and out of it but I think you may want to read it all. I have been drawn to the improv quilting style over the last couple of years but have still to relinquish control and go for it! It is hard coming from an engineering background and loving the perfection of perfect points to let go of the rulers and measuring and to not match seams! I also thought that improv should surely be improv - you don't get it from a book do you? Well I was wrong and, as I said, this is much more than a how to book. The subtitle is Modern Quilting with No Rules and No Rulers which is just perfect. Rayna explores some of those 'rules' that have sprung up around Modern Quilting, such as no batiks are to be used in a modern quilt, the use of highly patterned fabric over all solids and even improv paper piecing - a contradiction in terms surely?! There are several technique sections which talk you through the process and give you exercises to do to get you improv quilting. As a newcomer to this technique, I think they would prove very useful and the great thing about this is that a whole group of people could be given the same fabric and technique and the resulting pieces would all be unique. There are lots of quilts to look at, both Rayna's and other quilters and towards the back there is a gallery containing information on others such as Catherine Whall Smith, Cindy Griselda and Debbie Anderson to name a few. Rayna talks about her inspiration and as I am someone who sees quilts in almost every thing I see I totally get that. I have not yet translated these thoughts or visions to fabric but this book has really sparked something in me. In fact, before I even finished reading the book, I went and searched through my drawers of scrap fabrics and found some scrappy improv pieced blocks which were, one day in the very distant future, destined to a scrap vortex quilt. However, I now realised I could do something different with them and taking huge inspiration from this piece of Rayna's, I set to with putting them on my design board and then started to fill around the edges with white Kona. I had a most enjoyable few hours over a couple of day and LOVED the process - then real life and prior deadlines called and it has been at this stage ever since. DEFINITELY recommend it for anyone who may be interested in improv quilting or who is looking for some inspiration for their next quilt. -- Abigail * Cut&Alter *May 2018 In the foreword to Create Your Own Improv Quilts, author Rayna Gillman says that reader should use this book as an ideas generator, not as a recipe book. Beforehand, she has already explained how the book was a process of discovery and that many of the experiments that she set out to achieve didn't actually make it on to the pages. Improv quilting is by its very definition a freeing approach that leaves you open to serendipity and sometimes failure. Having started out on her quilt-making journey in the mid-70s, Rayna was used to using rulers and scissors as opposed to rotary cutters, so wonky lines were nothing new. The discovery of Gees Bend quilts at the Whitney Museum in 1996 only reinforced her principles of no rules; no borders, and personal expression. Here, you start with strips and geometric shapes and simply follow your instincts. Rayna tells you how to see a design through a camera or someone else's eyes, and explains how to do no-pattern piecing or make use of leftover fabrics. This is a great book for quilters who are already proficient and fancy breaking out of traditional techniques. There are no projects as such but plenty of ideas. -- Julie Sheridan * Popular Patchwork *

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Book SynopsisThe author of best-selling Wool Appliqué Folk Art presents a treasure trove of 12 seasonal wool appliqué projects, with three for each season. Her Americana aesthetic, although very true to early decorative arts, would look great in many homes today. Presented in a lovely antique colour palette, these simple and elegant projects include a journal cover, cushion cover, wallhangings, storage boxes, table rug and more, perfect for your home or to give as gifts. Includes a basics chapter and an updated chapter on the collection, storage and use of wool. "Lovely designs, lovely stitching, good projects...all done to a good standard with pleasant motifs." www.yarnsandfabrics.co.ukTrade ReviewLovely designs, lovely stitching, good projects from cushions, notebook cover, pegbag, scissor holder to table runner, nothing too imaginative but all done to a good standard with pleasant motifs. One thing to remember is that wool comes in many colours and you can dye your own because the first thing that strikes me about this book is that it is brown. Rebekah has chosen a limited, muted palette. On the back cover two cushions are shown, one dull green with a brown squirrel, the other orange with a brown bird. Just think what a happier guy that squirrel would have been if he were rusty orange. All the projects can be seen at the beginning of the book, and there's that overall brown-ness. As we are going through the seasons, you might imagine a palette of colour to match the seasons but that only seems to be evoked by a touch of orange in autumn. I like the pegbag, my mother used to have one, and if you adjust the pattern slightly, it could be any sort of bag you want. Each of the 12 projects is shown with details, introduced with a paragraph or two, and contain instructions to make the projects. There is a short guide to preparing wool and embroidery stitches at the back of the book. Included are 2 pages of pattern templates, these are double sided. I love the birds. * Yarnsandfabrics.co.uk *This book would be a lovely introduction to hand embroidery techniques and the ‘folkie’ theme is currently popular for interiors. Yes, it’s a project book but one with attractive and useful ‘makes’ that are described clearly in step photos and diagrams. The book is divided into seasons but, as the colour scheme is much the same throughout, it is just the motifs that change. The photography is good and full-sized patterns are included. Preparation, cutting-out and a very good guide to simple stitches would really encourage a newcomer to make something really lovely. * Workshop on the web *Table of ContentsIntroduction Projects Spring March Musings: Journal Cover Sewing in the Seed Time: Wall Hanging At the Urn of the Season: Pillow Cover Summer Sew Many Berries: Stool Seat, Scissor Holder, and Sewing Basket In the Pursuit of Picnics: Blanket Carrier On the Line: Clothespin Pocket Fall September's Storage: Boxes Pillows from the Patch: Pillows Autumn Abundance: Wall Hanging Winter Winter's Ramble: Table Rug A House for Tea: Tea Cozy Her Hearts: Table Runner Remarkable Wool Snipping and Stitching About the Author

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Book SynopsisExplore new options in improvisational piecing and empower your creativity. Cut and combine solid-colour fabrics to create your own 'prints' - stripes, polka dots, chevrons, plaids and more. Forget the rules (and even your ruler) as you piece colourful solids into compelling quilt designs. Use colour, pattern and repetition to develop your personal design aesthetic as you stitch freely to create unique quilts that pack a punch!Table of ContentsContents Start Where You Are My Journey as a Quiltmaker Your Journey To Developing a Quiltmaking Practice How to Use this Book The Psychological and Emotional Benefits of Being a Maker Tips on Being a Fearless Quiltmaker Space and Tools Quality Tools Sewing Machines A Short Discussion about Space Finding the Perfect Iron Color, Pattern, and Repetition Color Basic Color Theory Color from a Quilter's Perspective Four Simple Things You Can Do to Improve Your Color Sense Value Building a Color Palette Print, Pattern, and Repetition Finding Quality Solid Fabrics Search Garage Sales, Thrift Stores, and Ebay Buy Commercial Quilter's Cottons Dye Your Own Tips on Being Fearless with Color Ruler-Made Stripes The Simple Stripe Fabric Prep Cutting Stripes Stitching Stripes Designer StripesCreating Recipes for Ruler-Made Stripes Working with a Ruler-Made Stripe Piecing off the Grid Press Like a Professional Mat-Made Stripes Preparing and Cutting Mat-Made Stripes Controlling Wonkiness in Mat-Made Stripes Ruler-Made Stripes versus Mat-Made Stripes Short Row StripesAnother Fun Stripe to Make Tips for Cutting and Sewing without Rulers Mat-Made Stripes Quilt Ideas Polka Dots Classic Polka Dot Multi-Colored Polka Dots Polka Dot Stripes Polka Dot Quilt Ideas Triangles Triangles Made with Lines Isosceles Triangles Made from Shapes Half-Square Triangles / Right Angle Triangle Rulers Perfect Pinning Triangle Quilt Ideas Chevrons, Herringbones, and Zigzags Chevrons Herringbones Zigzags Chevron, Herringbone, and Zigzag Quilt Ideas Checks, Tracks, and PlaidsThe Ultimate Linear Print Checks, Ginghams, Plaids, and Tartans Defined Checks Lattice Checks Regular Checks Tracks Plaids Resources About the Author

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Book SynopsisGrow your cache of quilter's tricks with 5 awe-inspiring patchwork techniques that are easier than they appear. Learn a new piecing trick in just 15 minutes or less and watch your skills soar to a whole new level. Say "presto!" with partial seams for both quilts and blocks, Y-seams, mini improv piecing and free-form curves. Victoria Findlay Wolfe shares 17 projects, including the eye-fooling Herringbone and LeMoyne Star quilt patterns, plus full-size templates and 6 quilt colouring pages to help you work your own quilt magic.Table of ContentsIntroduction Looking Parlor Trick #1: Partial-Seam Construction Herringbone Herringbone Pillow: Class Project Lavender Walls At the Crossroads of Modern and Grand Marion Lane Enough Negative Space, Positive Attitude The Happy Wanderer Parlor Trick #2: Blocks with Partial Seams Blocks Partial-Seams Block Baby Quilt: Class Project Mindful Balance Parlor Trick #3: Mini Made Fabric Miniature Play Mini Quilt #1: Class Project Mini Quilt #2: Class Project Mini Quilt #3: Class Project Parlor Trick #4: Y-Seams Lemoyne Star Lemoyne Star Pillow: Class Project Soigne Parlor Trick #5: Free-Form Curves Free-Form Curves Lolling Landscape: Class Project The Difference Between Things Cascade Additional Resources Coloring Design Pages Patterns About the Author

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Book SynopsisThis coffee table book delves into Angela Walters' free-motion quilting journey in gorgeous detail. The best-selling author gives insight into her design process, with full-page photography of her own quilts and commissions for well-known designers. Discover how she sketches with grand details and lavish texture to complement each quilt’s specific design.Trade ReviewI have admired all Angela Walters' books but this one has me mesmerized. That gorgeous cover is soft to the touch and I keep stroking it - it is almost like a piece of fabric. This is a collectible book of the stitches and quilts created by this amazing machine quilt artist. See how she chooses free-motion stitches to adorn her quilts. Such a magnificent book with incredible knock-out photography. Includes beginnings, hand to machine quilter, going pro, go big, back to the future, about the author, Special detail has been paid to extra thick paper and a cover with flap and it is simply superb in a word. It's like stitch combining to accommodate the quilt design and enhance perfectly with stitch. Sharing her fabulous skills for all to see what they too can achieve. This is all about the beauty of quilting, highlighting the stitch. It's not what you do, it's the way that you do it. Angela does it so fine. It is not a step-to-step free-motion instruction manual, but Angela talking about her incredible journey to be one of the best quilters. Highly recommended. * YarnsandFabrics.co.uk *

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Book SynopsisPick your project then pick your block: mix and match 8 super-easy projects with 16 adorable paper-pieced blocks just for Christmas. Simply follow Mary's clearly illustrated instructions to create fun and fresh holiday blocks. Plus, use her time-saving technique for paper piecing with less waste to create custom winter decor ranging from tree skirts and table toppers to gift bags, mug rugs, pot holders and more. Sew by number and watch your image emerge.Trade ReviewChristmas 2017 Warning: this book may get you hooked on paper piecing. It shares great stash and time-saving tips to help you make 16 festive blocks with the technique, which can be used to make eight home and gift projects - you'd need a workshop in the North Pole to get though all the possible combos. * Sew magazine *November 2017 If there's ever a time to inject a bit of fun and kitsch into your life, it's gotta be Christmas, right? In this jaunty little book, Mary Hertel encourages us to create our own festive goodies including a table topper, tree skirt and gift sack using 16 of her block designs. These feature well-thought-out characters including Santa and Mrs Claus, a cheeky elf, Rudolph, a penguin, a polar bear, a gingerbread man and a snowman. Other blocks feature details such as a smartly wrapped present. Perfect for paper-piecing beginners, the blocks, once made can be mixed and matched to create your own take on the projects, offering lots of variations. Whilst the designs and styling are not going to be everyone's cup of tea- I know that the eight-year old me would have fainted with joy at the excitement of a placemat featuring Rudolph and a gift sack covered in polar bears, and cut to several decades later and my own kids moan that I won't even allow them to have tinsel! I bet Mary Hertel allows heaps of tinsel in her house.I think I need to lighten up... let me take a look at that gingerbread man block again. * Popular Patchwork *Fabulous fun design for Christmas. With a little ingenuity, these designs could be adapted to year round, in fact some of them are seasonal more than Christmas - gingerbread men and polar bears, lending this book great appeal. Work from scraps using paper piecing and cut as you sew. This book provides a variety of whimsical projects such as place mats, Christmas stockings, table runners and more that are suitable to create for your own home, or to solve the gift-giving at Christmas. 16 paper-pieced blocks are mix and match providing much scope for a personal touch. There are 8 holiday projects. Simple fun designs with clear instructions, including photographs. * Yarnsandfabrics.co.uk *Table of ContentsIntroduction Paper-Piecing Basics Tools Things to Know Preparing the Patterns Paper Piecing Joining Segments Projects Table Topper Tree Skirt Christmas Stocking Table Runner Place Mat Mug Rug Potholder Gift Sack Block Patterns Santa Claus Mrs. Claus Elf Rudolph Penguin Snowman Gingerbread Boy Gingerbread Girl Gingerbread House Polar Bear 1 Polar Bear 2 Polar Bear 3 Candy Cane O Christmas Tree Stocking Present About The Author

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Book SynopsisCreate four pictorial quilts with easy-to-use, paint-by-numbers colour keys! These complex quilts may look difficult, but Kerry Foster takes the guesswork out of fabric choice so that you can sew animal portraits with sophisticated areas of light and shadow. Use the colour keys and diagrams to easily choose a palette from your fabric stash and create amazing portraits with turned-edge machine appliqué. Choose from a fabulous fox, an adorable raccoon, a majestic stag, and a fierce bear!Table of ContentsGetting Started How to Use This Book Tools and Materials Choosing Fabrics Appliqué Smaller Projects Raccoon Mug Rug Himalayan Cat Cushion Hank the Pointer Pillow Rabbit Journal Cover Barn Owl Tote Bag Wallhangings Loose Moose Grizzly Bear Fabulous Mr. Fox Whitetail Deer Triptych Barley the Mouse Finishing Quilting Squaring Up and Binding

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Book SynopsisLearn 61 basic embroidery stitches, including silk ribbon and beaded stitches, through step-by-step photos, plus get crazy-quilt block piecing instructions and helpful information on tools and supplies. Then put it all together in a gorgeous, intricate sampler. Join the author's popular Facebook group, Joyful Embellishments, to stitch along with fellow embroiderers.Trade ReviewThe book contains everything you need to get going...The inspiring examples used throughout are vibrant and fun. This form of creativity is very portable, so you will be able to work anywhere and before you know it, your piece will take shape beautifully. -- Down Under Textiles * www.downundertextiles.com *If you want your crazy quilt projects to look their best you need some innovative and eye-catching ways of decorating your seams. This book contains 500 of them to inspire you to find time to do some stitching every day. Of course, you don’t have to want to decorate crazy quilt seams to delve into this book for some beautiful stitch combinations. Two-thirds of the book is devoted to those 500 patterns, but before you get to that there is a wealth of other information for the hand embroiderer. This includes a section showing most of the hand embroidery stitches you are likely to need plus variations, many including beads and ribbon. Each stitch is shown in several good-sized photographs with detailed captions for a pretty foolproof result. I was impressed throughout the book on the pretty color scheme of green, pink and purple and combined with pale fabric each photograph shows the stitch very visibly. Before this is a short section on basic crazy quilting methods plus other useful tips, but the bulk of the book is devoted to those beautiful seam decorations. These are arranged in stitch families, so you can easily find what you want if you have a stitch in mind you want to design your seam around. As well as old favorites such as back stitch, lazy daisy and French knots there are stitches based around beads, ribbons and even some embroidered motifs. For ease of use each pattern has a list of stitches used underneath, and the detailed index at the beginning ensures you can find what you want quickly. Although all the stitches are shown in detail for beginners it is the slightly more experienced embroiderer who will get the most out of the combination stitch section. At the front are two small photographs of crazy quilts, but apart from that no other images of them are present which is a bit of a shame. However, this book shows one aspect of hand embroidery very well indeed, namely decorative seams. * Rachel A Hyde *

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Book SynopsisSew (and design) graphic paper-pieced patterns! Learn about every stage of the process with piecing basics, a guide to pattern design, and choose-your-own-adventure design prompts to create your own foundation paper piecing (FPP) patterns. With an annotated overview of the best FPP methods, countless tips, and over thirty paper-pieced quilt blocks plus seven design exercises to put your skills to the test, you'll have the tools you need to thrive when confronted with any paper-piecing challenge.Trade ReviewFoundation Paper Piecing is a technique where intricate designs can be stitched with precision. Patterns are drawn onto paper and each section is numbered in sequence for stitching. Each fabric piece is placed one at a time on the back of the paper and stitched on the drawn lines. This means that the printed paper side is the back of the finished block and therefore the mirror image of the finished block. The book is divided into three sections, method and technique, design and design exercises. Six full patterns are included from easy, to highly intricate. A comprehensive book. * British Patchwork & Quilting, May 2019 *Get set to go with foundation paper piecing for quilters with step by step instructions and design exercises. This book includes The Method, Design and Prompts providing a detailed overview of foundation piecing, building blocks, design and how to get your creativity flowing. Foundation paper piecing enables the quilter to craft intricate designs. You’ll find everything you need to know from paper, needles and tips on fussy cutting and mirrors. Enjoy the quirky houseplant designs that let you get comfortable with the process. In the design section, you’ll see how to transform a photograph into a foundation paper piecing design. The 7 design prompts give you ideas for design. Examples and patterns are given by the author, including quilt construction for each prompt. There is also a crash course in repeat design. Some great patterns and templates here including a double wedding ring, various plants, animals and much more. -- Karen Platt * www.karenplatt.co.uk *Table of ContentsIntroduction Part I: The Method Getting Started In Foundation Paper Piecing The Piecing Method Tips and Tricks: Plant Lady Part II: Design Getting Started in FPP Design The Design Process Pattern Design Exercises My Approach to Fabric, Color, and Design Graffiti Foundation Paper Piecing Part III: Design Prompts Learning By The Letter Snooze Traditional with a Twist Prickly Path Objects Voodoo Feather Pincushion Creatures Folksy Friends Think Outside the (Square) Block Fireflies Repeat Designs Jungleview Single Foundation Paper Piecing Double Diamond Wedding Ring Patterns and Templates About the Author

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Book SynopsisQuilting rulers have long been used by longarm quilters to make uniform shapes while quilting, but now, with the advent of the domestic ruler foot, domestic quilters can join in on the fun too! Amanda Murphy, best-selling author of the Free-Motion Quilting Idea Book, starts by showing you how to use 6 basic shapes of machine quilting rulers to lay a foundation for your quilting, then moves on to teaching you 59 different designs. Finish up by following Amanda's suggestions for filling in the background space with free-motion quilting.

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Book SynopsisFrom the sewing machine whisperer comes this in-depth, visual guide to how a sewing machine works, how to keep it in good working order, and how to solve common problems. Perfect for sewists and quilters of all levels, this friendly approach to learning about and troubleshooting your sewing machine gives you the tools you need to sew and quilt with less frustration and better results!Trade ReviewOften, I have a love/hate relationship with my sewing machine because if something goes wrong (tension - I am looking at you!) I don't feel equipped for knowing how to sort it. This book is written by a sewing machine technician and offers a comprehensive guide for getting to know your sewing machine (including how a stitch is formed, needle plates, electronic vs mechanical vs computerised, foot controls, bobbins, feed dogs), maintaining a good relationship with your machine (including how to use the different feet such as applique, walking, 1/4", free-motion, cleaning & oiling the machine, using spray basting, turning the handwheel) and problems & how to fix them (including tension, burrs, threading, needles, anatomy of the needle, sizes, types, when to change needles, pressure-foot and buttonholes)!! I can 100% say that I believe this book should be supplied alongside the manual for every sewing machine! It covers EVERYTHING and has been a real game-changer for me in understanding my sewing machine and how to work with it!! -- Naomi Clarke * @naomialicec *A complete explanation of the workings of a sewing machine. There is a list of questions to ask when buying a machine. The maintenance section covers cleaning and lubrication stressing the importance of regular servicing, lint can accumulate in areas unseen by the user. The section on tension tells how to achieve the perfect stitch, threading the machine correctly is essential e.g. lifting the presser foot when threading, opens the tension plates and enable the thread to sit correctly. The qualities and differences of needles are explained clearly. There is a final troubleshooting section to solve problems. We are told not only how but why our machines work. It is my Book of the Month. * British Patchwork & Quilting, March 2019 *

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Book SynopsisDresden Plates, pinwheel blocks and flying geese ... piece like a pro with The Piper's Girls. Starting with the simplest patchwork squares and working your way up to more challenging appliqué and paper piecing, you'll sew through a cheery, 11-row sampler quilt and 2 bonus projects. Build 27 specific quilting skills such as getting an accurate 1/4" seam, constructing on-point squares and using the 45 degree angle on a ruler. Straightforward how-to photos and full-size patterns are included. Gain confidence and learn new tips along the way, whether you're just a beginner or a more experienced quilter.Trade ReviewSkill building quilting in a row is designed to take you from beginner to expert. Each row involves different skills and techniques. Sometimes piecing a quilt can become a little monotonous or even boring - with this method, you stay involved and interested because you are doing different things each row. After tools and basic techniques, this book gets down to business, presenting 11 fun rows to quilt. Each row has full instructions and pictures. All the skills are seen in box, for example "using the 45°angle on a ruler", or "accurate cutting". You'll learn too many techniques and skills to mention in detail but amongst them are Dresden Plates, Pinwheels, Paper Piecing, On Point, Flying Geese, Machine and Reverse Applique, Sashing, Borders and Finishing. There are also two bonus quilt designs. Great skill builder and a lot of scope for injecting your own ideas. -- Karen Platt * www.karenplatt.co.uk *Table of ContentsIntroduction Getting Started with The Pipers Girls Row Quilt Row 1: Simple Patches (piecing) Row 2: Ribbons (piecing) Row 3: Dresden (piecing and applique) Row 4: Pinwheels (pieced/folded dimensional) Row 5: Birds (pieced) Row 6: Posy Flowers (pieced) Row 7: Dancing Squares (pieced) Row 8: Spring Garden (pieced) Row 9: Flying Geese with Flowers (piecing and applique) Row 10: French Braid (piecing) Row 11: Happy Trails (applique) Putting It All Together Bonus Projects Project #1 Project #2 About the Author

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Book SynopsisDo you love Outlander? Do you have Scottish heritage? Learn to make modern, graphic quilts based on the woven patterns of traditional tartans of Scotland! Though the interweaving of tartan colours can be complex, the author has simplified the instructions for easy piecing. Simply cut strips, make strip sets, and sub-cut sections to make pieces that you can sew together to create rows. With a range of project types for each tartan, from runners and throws to bed-size quilts, there’s something for every quilter. Includes patterns for clans Elliot, Maxwell, Maitland, Barclay, Hannay, Macrae of Conchra, Fraser, and an original design, Amador, to honour the area where the author lives.

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