Quiltmaking, patchwork and appliqué Books

Book SynopsisLearn to flawlessly construct basic quilting blocks with this pocket guide. Includes techniques and foolproof tips to solve common construction problems for basic quilt blocks.

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Book SynopsisWeekend Makes: English Paper Piecing teaches this traditional patchwork & quilting technique with a stylish collection of 25 simple projects for homewares and gift items. English Paper Piecing (EPP) is a hugely popular form of quilt-making that originated in England in the 1700s. It is a method of hand-piecing using a variety of paper templates to create an accurate mosaic-style pattern with a variety of fabrics. Beginner quilters will love the opening step-by-step instructions, while advanced sewers will enjoy using their existing skills to learn a new technique and create beautiful patchwork from a variety of interesting shapes including diamonds, triangles & clam shells as well as the traditional hexagon. Complete information on tools & equipment plus reusable templates and modern life-style photography give clear instructions for the construction of each project. The patterns are ideal for using up left-over fabrics, with a variety of colours and patterns throughout. Projects include: Brooch, small basket, tea cosy, notebook cover, cushion tote bag, tablet storage. 25 EPP projects for homewares and gift items Hugely popular form of quilt-making Beginner-friendly through to more advanced patterns Clear, illustrated step-by-step instructions, reusable templates and detailed notes and tips Latest in the Weekend Makes quilting collection from Janet Goddard Table of ContentsIntroduction What is EPP Brief history Benefits of portable sewing, relaxation, mindfulness Templates • Choosing and making paper templates • Buying pre-cut paper templates • Use of acrylic templates Fabrics and Thread • How to choose the fabrics for your project • Thread selection Tools and Equipment • The basic equipment for EPP • Tools and equipment needed to finish projects • Measurements • Embellishments/finishing Techniques - the EPP basics • Cutting the fabrics (strip cutting, tracing and cutting or using acrylic templates) • Preparing the shapes, tacking vs gluing, how to tack, methods for different shapes • Stitching the patches together, what stitch to use, starting, finishing • How to remove the papers, pressing • Attaching the EPP design to your project by hand and machine, trimming your work Techniques – for finishing your projects • To include zips, quilting, binding, hand stitching Projects using hexagons 1. Coasters 2. Zippy pouch 3. Lavender bag 4. Brooch 5. Christmas decoration Projects using diamonds 6. Table mat 7. Tea cosy 8. Oven pad 9. Coffee cosy 10. Small basket Projects using triangles 11. Pencil case 12. Notebook cover 13. Phone case 14. Door stop 15. Tablet storage Projects using clam shells 16. Hot water bottle cover 17. Cushion Projects using apple cores 18. Cushion 19. Tote bag Projects combining shapes (any shapes combined together) 20. Needle case 21. Pincushion 22. Button bag 23. Ball 24. Glasses case 25. Drawstring bag

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Book SynopsisDiscover the fun of making pineapple quilt blocks! Renowned author Jean Ann Wright begins with clear instructions for using the 6-8-10 inch Pineapple Trim Tool (sold separately) which makes creating pineapple quilt blocks simple and math-free. The 17 eye-catching and playful projects include Beneath the Deep Blue Sea Quilt, Salt and Pepper Pillows, Tropical Totes, Kitchen Kitsch Potholders and Placemats, and a Baby Bubble Quilt. The author also includes three brand new project patterns: a table topper, a large quilt and a mesh tote. Start your pineapple play quilts and projects today to keep or to give as a gift.

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Book SynopsisFun and easy-to-use, this iron-on book of 101+ labels offers tons of options for personalizing your quilts and artistic projects. Each design comes in multiple sizes and transfers several times!

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Book SynopsisTransform your treasured quilt panels into masterpieces with creative techniques! Explore the possibilities of creating small freeform quilts using a montage technique that will help you unleash your artistic flair. Learn how to create a montage with panels and identify styles that work with repeated block settings like the Irish Chain or Storm at SeaGain practical skills through exercises by piecing together and assembling art quilts from a pre-determined grid to create a unique panel quiltRow by row, make panels the key feature of your new quilt masterpiece by finding your theme and drafting coordinating blocks

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Book SynopsisLearn techniques to tame silk's challenging qualities and create gorgeous silk quilts, breathing life into quilt projects ranging from bed-sized quilts to home decor items. Master the art of quilting with cherished silk fabrics!Learn techniques to tame silk's challenging qualities and create gorgeous silk quilts! From working with reclaiming materials like ties, scarves, and garments to exploring the history of sericulture and its use in historic quilts, you'll find the secrets to quilting with silks. Discover key techniques when working with silks, including traditional machine piecing with fusible interfacing, improv piecing, fabric foundation piecing, fussy cutting, appliqué, finishing, and more! From sarees to kimono, you'll explore ways to combine various silks in one project. Put newfound skills to work, breathing life into quilt projects that range from bed-sized quilts to home decor items. Perfect for quilters of all skill levels, whether you're a traditionalist or a modern

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Book SynopsisSquares are one of the basic shapes used in quilting and can lead to a lot of fun designs. This book features projects ranging from a pillow to table runners to wall and throw quilts in skill levels from beginner to confident beginner. Grab your 5" or 10" squares and start sewing. Most of these projects can be made in a weekend. Featuring designs by Wendy Sheppard, Julie Weaver, Cassie Harms, Preeti Harris, Scott Flanagan, Julie Weaver, Carolyn Beam, Nancy Scott, Mary Beth Temple and Annette Falvo.

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Book SynopsisThis pattern book is full of fun and creative interpretations of two-colour quilts. Whether you are using up your scraps or just a few shades of fabrics, you're sure to find the perfect design to recreate this historically popular type of quilt. Get inspired by these eight different two-color quilts – ideal for confident beginners or intermediate quilters. It is a perfect combination of classy throw and bed quilts! Featured designers include: Nancy Scott, Chris Malone, Jennifer Thomas, Wendy Sheppard, Lyn Brown, Carolyn Cullinan McCormick, Teri Ann Harms & Cassie Harms.

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Book SynopsisPacked with 110 quilt blocks in five sizes including project ideas, expert hints, tips & tricks, simple cutting charts, and helpful references tables.

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Book SynopsisStart and finish your quilt like a pro! Master the use of 2 ½˝-wide pre-cut strips with this complete and indispensable guide.

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Book SynopsisEnglish Paper Piecing (EPP) is a popular and easy method of creating beautiful, hand-sewn patchwork designs. The fabric is cut and folded over a paper template and the resulting shapes are stitched together by hand, making it ideal for sewing whether you're on the move, or at home. Successful and established author Alistair Macdonald provides 18 fabulous projects, including a lovely baby’s play mat, a stylish gentleman's scarf, a useful hobby bag, a tea cosy, a gorgeous tote bag and a make-up purse. All the patchwork is done by hand sewing, using the English Paper Piecing method in fresh, bright cottons and with clear, step-by-step instructions and beautiful photographs. There is some machine sewing for putting projects together, but you can hand sew if you prefer. Actual size templates for every project are included. Trade ReviewThe best book for beginner sewists, which uses the simple art of paper piecing that everyone can do. 18 wonderful projects with simple step by step instructions, and with the inclusion of templates makes this a book for mindful sewing. Paper piecing is a hand sewing technique, which involves cutting shapes of paper and wrapping your chosen fabric and stitching them together to make stunning and useful items. Cushions, bags book covers and quilts I actually started paper piecing when I first learned to sew, and started making a small lap quilt which when I eventually finished was a king-sized quilt which now adorns my bed and is very warm... This craft is very addictive so be warned. -- Tracy Shephard * Postcard Reviews *I had this book to help teach my WI. It is a very useful book for beginners. I have found Alistair uses his experience to mention not machining in a zip until you have checked it works whilst tacked in place. Also how to make a tab with bias binding to cover any visible raw edges. The diagrams were mostly clear and I like the techniques section. I particularly liked the tablet case and storage baskets. -- Jane Ford * Customer review *I recommend this lovely book for anyone who wants to start English Paper Piecing. Alistair Macdonald clearly and simply introduces you to the basic without delay. He shows how easy it is to begin making lovely items. Included are full-size templates, projects, hints, and tips that gave confidence to this nervous newbie. What I love most about this book however is that he shows you that you don't need to buy a lot of unnecessary products. This makes the process so relaxing - which to me, is what it's all about. This book and a few basic tools like scissors, ruler and some bits of fabric are all you need to get going. -- Lesley Bambridge * Customer review *Excellent basic technique section at the beginning, with templates, with 18 really useful projects to make. I will definitely be using this book to teach from. -- Lyn Rochester * Customer review *This is a great book for getting started with English Paper Piecing. Having never tried this technique before, the book clearly explains how to get started and the projects within the book are nice and simply explained. You really can pick them up and take them with you wherever you may be going: car, train or bus. Each of the instructions are clear and easy to read and include a picture template of how you would piece together your various shapes (mainly hexagons). These will make for a few handy presents for people throughout the year such as the ipad cover, hot water bottle cover (I can now jazz up my previously rather boring hot water bottle), tote bag, table rest and the baby play mat. The only negative for me is that the pictures were not as vivid as I was expecting, the front cover lead me to think that they would all be quite vibrant. However I think this is down to the fabric choice, I was expecting all of the projects to use fabrics and colours similar to the bag on the front cover. But this is just my opinion as I am a fan of bright bold colours and patterns. Overall I would say this is a great book to get you started with English Paper Piecing and has quite a few interesting project for you to try the technique out with. The fact that each project is so portable makes it each one great to take with you on long journeys or when visiting family to keep your hands busy in an evening. -- Rebecca Ridyard * Customer review *Table of ContentsIntroduction Basic techniques Projects: Hobby Bag Organizer Pincushion Make-up Bag Tea Cosy & Egg Warmers Gentleman’s Scarf Peg Bag Tablet Case Coat Hanger & Scent Bag Christmas Table Runner Hot Water Bottle Case Book Cover Tote Bag Baby's Play Mat Sparkly Evening Purse Christmas Bauble Storage Baskets Pyramid Doorstop Tweed Tablet Rest

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Book SynopsisMake treasured art quilts from bits of cloth, stitched motifs, and painted details. Dip your toes into the world of art quilting with mixed-media techniques, practice exercises, checklists, and work-along projects presented using 8 design guides. This visual, step-by-step guide will help you unlock your own artistic vision as you quilt in a series, finish small art pieces, and incorporate meaningful symbols into your work.Trade ReviewDec 2016 This book has the tagline ‘How to get from 'start' to 'art''. This is a very apt description of the book as it works as an exercise in mentoring the reader into creating art quilts. You can get a lot of books that try to direct you in this way but don’t always offer practical exercises to achieve it. Joen Wolfrom’s book 'Adventures in Design' did so very successfully (also published by C&T) and Deborah Boschert’s book reminds me of this. It doesn’t go into the subject of design to the depth of Wolfrom’s but instead, concentrates on the art of composition and surface design. What is different here is that you are given a limited set of tools and this helps focus the mind whilst developing the skills. The tools you are given are eight design guides to follow which are presented to you in simple diagrams. These basic layouts apply to all the techniques of creating a quilt through the book and you can see what makes each work. Working alongside that is a Design Checklist (which is a great way of getting you to analyse your work and change your layout accordingly) and the See What Happens exercises which offer a prescribed method of trying out new approaches. One of those exercises, using a photo you have taken, and working out the composition, shapes and patterns, provides a perfect way of improving your observation. This is a great book for working on developing a visual style and thinking more about the mechanics of composition. * Workshop on the Web *Dec 2016 An enticing close up of one of Deborah's quilts as a front cover, plus the quote on the back - 'How to get from start to art', both set the tone for this inspiring and motivational book. Although I am more of a traditional quilter myself, i greatley admire quilts on display at quilt shows and often wonder how the maker has started on the process, how their jouney has taken them from the inspiration to the design and finally to a complete art quilt - something this book covers very well. There are no actual projects in the book, but should rather be used as a guide to work through the individual processes required to create a unique quilt of your own. Each chapter has a bullet list of the skills that are covered so you can flick through to the appropriate support you require. The chapter on Inspiration quickly made me realise there are so many starting points to a design, such as those pieces of fabric we all squirrel away but just don't know how to incorporate into a project. This chapter also has a brief but detailed guide to colour, how to use it and how to change the mood of a piece by adding an accent. The Design and Composition chapter clearly explains in text, diagrams, and photographs of work the principles of the design process, while other chapters cover surface design, stitching and threads and the construction and finishing a piece of work. I found this book very informative in its suggestions and examples. It is a book to inspire and support you in the process of making an art quilt and would be of great value if you were following a course that includes a design component. I am looking forward to dabbling my toe into the world of art quilts with this book at my side. * Popular Patchwork *We do not usually need an excuse to quilt, but if you have been looking for inspiration, here it is in oodles. You'll find easy-to-use design guidelines, ideas and more to get your creativity buzzing. The front cover gives you a real idea of what this book is all about. Inside, the contents include inspiration, design, construction, symbols, surface design, stitch and finishing plus a gallery of work. Throughout there are useful exercises too. Techniques are explained but this is not a step-by-step book as such, more a creative journey that you can join in and learn so that you apply processes to your own work. There was nothing new to me, but things do not have to be new to inspire and bring forth your own slant on ideas. Discover painted surfaces, stencils, applique, edges, text, stitch and more. I think everyone will enjoy the creative processes in this book that are easy to apply to your own ideas. I love the chairs, they are great. * YarnsandFabrics.co.uk *Table of ContentsIntroduction Chapter 1: Supplies Chapter 2: Inspiration and Fabric Selection Embracing Inspiration Gathering a Fabric Palette Ideas about Color See What Happens: Photo Inspiration Exploration Chapter 3: Design and Composition The Eight Design Guides The Design Check List Practice Project, Part 1: Inspiration, Fabric and Beginning Design See What Happens: Quick Fabric Sketches Chapter 4: Construction Raw Edge Fused Applique Tips for Working with Fusible Web Chapter 5: Personal Symbols Finding and Developing Symbols Adding Symbols to Art Quilts Using fabric Using paint Using stitch Practice Project, Part 2: Adding a Personal Symbol and Other Details See What Happens: Symbol Study Chapter 6: Surface Design What is Surface Design? Surface Design Techniques Practice Project, Part 3: Adding Surface Design See What Happens: Simple Repeat Patterns Chapter 7: Stitching Stitching For Art Quilts Planning and Designing the Stitched Layer Favorite Stitches By machine By hand Practice Project, Part 4: Hand and Machine Stitching See What Happens: Zen Stitching Chapter 8: Finishing Fused Backing Squaring Up and Cropping Edge Treatments Titles and Labels Presentation Practice Project, Part 5: Finishing See What Happens: Roll An Art Quilt Chapter 9: Gallery of Art Quilts Gallery of the Eight Design Guides Gallery of Additional Techniques Resources About the Author

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Book SynopsisFourth-generation quilter Rebecca Bryan is back — this time with beautiful 3-sided blocks sewn from pieced stripes, chevrons, curves, and more. A dedicated graphic design chapter will help you choose a winning colour palette, play up unexpected elements, and achieve balance and symmetry. Grab your favourite ruler and the full-size block templates to create equilateral, isosceles, and right triangles with ease. With no tricky seams, these sampler blocks are perfect to mix and match.Trade Review70 pieced triangle blocks make bold, geometric designs to play with in your quilt-making. There are 3 basic triangular shapes used to make blocks. These are used singly or joined to make diamonds or larger triangles. You'll also find 11 sampler quilts that are simple to piece with no set-in seams. Explore bold, dynamic design, colour, visual texture and balance. Enhance with stitch. I love the Upstart quilt (I would have put this one on the front cover). It is dynamic and a very adaptable design, as shown in Skylines and Facets. At the back of the book are fold-out template patterns. The instructions are clear and I would expect this to be one to be a bestseller. * yarnsandfabrics.co.uk *Table of ContentsPreface Introduction Elements of Graphic Design Equilateral Triangle Blocks The Blocks (Base-36) The Quilt Projects Equilateral Sampler Upstart Skylines Facets Right-Triangle Blocks The Blocks (Base-20) The Quilt Projects Graphic Right-Triangle Sampler Saturn Wake Twilight Isosceles Triangle Blocks The Blocks (Base-14) The Quilt Projects Isosceles Sampler Riptide Stardust About the Author Pattern Pullout Pages

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Book Synopsis

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Book SynopsisStained Glass Medallions is a collection of eight stunning quilt projects. Create that oh-so popular look of stained glass appliqué the easy way. Whether you're looking for table toppers or wall hangings you'll love the selection. You can get this popular look without all the work. It's easy!

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Book Synopsis12 stunning quilt designs that you can make from both fat and long quarters, from international bestselling authors Pam and Nicky Lintott.

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Book SynopsisTheseareyour grandmother's quilts! This portable pocket-sized book contains more than twenty timeless patterns, fully colorized for modern crafters. There is even space for notes, for any adjustments or tips you learn along the way. Perfect for experienced and beginner quilters alike, Heirloom Quiltsis a must have!

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Book SynopsisFeatures five incredible quilt designs, each shown in two different colourways. This title includes a 'pick-and-mix' quilt gallery that gives ideas for combining favourite blocks for even more quick quilt designs.Table of ContentsCombines two of the most popular quilting topics – sampler quilt-making and using pre-cut fabric selections Enables quilters to achieve great results and develop their skills using just one jelly roll

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Book SynopsisCombines the appeal of traditional cultures' crafts with the pure enjoyment factor of this colorful, simple embroidering.

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Book SynopsisPatchwork Quilted Bags helps you create unique bags that put a little charm into carrying your stuff around or storing the things you don't need every day.Trade Review"…a book dedicated to incorporating your patchwork creations into everyday bags. This will be a great way to bring your creative showpieces around with you since it is quite impossible to bring your quilts wherever you go." --JapaneseSewingBooks.com"…I love the designs in the book…if you are an experienced quilter and sewer, who loves new bag ideas this book is for you." --Crafty Moms Share blog"…it's got all types of quilted bags, which each are so lovely and perfect for gift giving, carrying everyday crafting items, baby items and so much more!" --Test Try Results blog

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Book SynopsisA cat in a tutu is worth a thousand words!Using the most common embroidery stitches, Cat Mania Embroidery places your feline friends in wacky situations of the kind they'd probably get themselves into, given half the chance. Wide-eyed Whome? cats; dancing, frolicking cats; cats in the air and in the water(!); and cats full of attitude who'll try just about anything once. Whatever the setting or situation, they have never been more adorable!With this book you can make nearly 70 quirky cat motifs, and almost 30 different projects, including:Decorative items featuring adventurous cats in bottles, teapots and other tight spacesA wind chime of under-the-sea catseven a mermaid cat (oopsa mercat?)A rather surprised airborne cat on a little pouchCats making themselves useful for once, as bookmarksCats in the bathtub, flying to the moon, dancing the hula, and up to all kinds of lighthearted anticsIllustrated step-by-step instructions teach the basics and offer a refresher in the stitches you'llTrade Review"Cat fans and readers who are completely new to embroidery will gain a solid set of skills by the time they work their way through this book. Experienced embroiderers will find adorable patterns that could be easily replicated or adapted." —Eva Mitnick, Library Journal Life+Style: The Best in Crafts, Cooking, Gardening & DIY

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Book SynopsisFlowers areperennial favourites in patchwork, appliqué and quilting. Pauline Ineson showsyou how to create amazing three-dimensional flowers with machine quilting,patchwork and appliqué techniques. This garden of 20 irresistible fabricflowers includes pretty little marigolds, intricate fuchsias, stately foxglovesand elegant tulips.A wide variety oftechniques are used to make the flowers, including ruching fabric, gatheringand coiling fabric and many appliqué techniques. Detailed step-by-step artworkand gorgeous photography beautifully illustrate Pauline''s innovative designs,which are accompanied by full-size templates. There are also instructions formaking stems and various leaf shapes. Variations for each flower show how you canadapt the colours and styles to create your own unique versions. The book alsoincludes examples of stunning quilt blocks incorporating the flower designs foradded inspiration. Floral Dimensionsis a beautiful book that will inspire you to creTable of Contents• The amazing flower designs are all derived from Pauline Ineson's quilt 'Floral Dimensions', which won first place at both the Festival of Quilts and Quilts UK in 2010 • Detailed step-by-step artworks and gorgeous photography beautifully illustrate Pauline's innovative techniques • Variations for each flower show how you can adapt the colours and designs to create your own unique versions • Includes examples of stunning quilt blocks incorporating the flower designs

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Book SynopsisCreate incredible quilts for your home with this collection of foundation paper-pieced quilt patterns featuring 12 different animals. Learn how to create realistic representations of your favourite animals and birds in stunning paper-pieced quilt blocks. This unique collection of 12 contemporary quilt patterns includes a tiger, butterfly, swan, owl, peaccok and polar bear as well as many more. There are instructions to show how to resize the quilt blocks if you want to make them larger, as well as instructions for how to add borders to increase the size of the overall quilt.Juliet also explains how the fabric choice can really alter the overall effect of the quilt patterns to create very different results, and she encourages you to have fun and adapt the quilt patterns through your own choice of fabrics. There are step-by-step instructions showing Juliet''s foundation paper-piecing tecTable of ContentsIntroduction Getting StartedEquipment Paper Piecing Fabric Selection The Quilts • Panda • Monarch Butterfly • Rhino • Night Owl • Peacock • Highland Cow • Tiger • Clydesdale Horse • Polar Bear • Hunted • Howl • Swan General Techniques

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Book SynopsisA brand new collection of beautiful quilted and stitched projects by internationally-renowned designer, Lynette Anderson. Lynette brings her distinctive style of patchwork mixed with exquisite hand embroidery and applique to the theme of nautical quilts.Table of ContentsIntroduction Materials & Equipment Projects Nautical Flag Quilt Storm at Sea Picture Ship Ahoy Needleroll Ship Ahoy Snip Cover Far Horizon Duffle Bag Seagull Quilt All Aboard Wall Quilt All Aboard Pillow Seafarer’s Journal Seafarer’s Pencil Case Sail Away Quilt Sail Away Pillow Techniques Basic Techniques Embroidery Stitches Templates Suppliers About the Author Acknowledgments Index

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Book SynopsisLearn how to create stunning modern quilts with the Modern Quilt Bible: the ultimate reference guide to patchwork and quilting techniques. Author of Beginner's Guide to Quilting, Liz Betts, explains over 100 techniques and design ideas used by designers to create eye-catching modern quilts. Try your hand at improv piecing, free motion quilting, playing with scale, curved piecing and much more. There are featured quilts from the world's best modern quilt designers and ten unique quilted projects using a range of modern quilt techniques so you can practice your new-found skills.Table of ContentsWelcomeTools and Equipment Technology Fabric Design Focus Colour Fabric Grids Negative Space Symmetry and Asymmetry Optical Effects Playing with Shapes Modern Traditionalism Making Your Way Quilt Basics Sewing Basics Piecing Applique Finishing Templates Acknowledgements Contributors Suppliers About the Author Index

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Book SynopsisA collection of 12 quilt patterns for classic quilts made using jelly rolls. Pam and Nicky bring their expertise to classic quilt designs with Jelly Roll Quilts: The Classic Collection. Learn how to make all your favourite quilts and blocks quickly and easily with this brand new collection of jelly roll quilt patterns. Jelly rolls are a fantastic short cut to patchwork and quilting: you can avoid (some) of the hours of cutting and preparation required for making a quilt and go straight to the fun bit ; the sewing!Table of ContentsIntroduction .................................................................................6 Getting Started ..........................................................................8 Dawn Chorus ............................................................................ 12 Neapolitan ................................................................................. 18 Exploding Stars .......................................................................24 Regency Baskets ....................................................................32 High Seas at Hastings .........................................................40 French Lace ..............................................................................46 Lime and Soda ........................................................................ 52 Fantasy Forest .........................................................................58 Floral Quickstep ......................................................................64 Birdsong...................................................................................... 72 Dresden Carnival ................................................................... 92 Russian Dance ....................................................................... 104 General Techniques ..............................................................113 Templates ..................................................................................122 About the Authors ................................................................126 Useful Contacts ......................................................................126 Acknowledgements .............................................................126 Index ............................................................................................127

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Book SynopsisA collection of 18 English paper piecing (EPP) projects and techniques by EPP expert and TV presenter, Jenny Jackson. EPP is a traditional patchwork technique which is done by hand making it the perfect 'sofa sewing' project that can be done while relaxing in front of your favourite TV show or while socialising with friends.

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Book SynopsisChristmas at Cowslip is a compilation of the best festive sewing projects from Jo Colwill's two books Cushions and Quilts and Patchwork Quilts and Gifts. This collection of festive projects is the perfect resource for all your seasonal sewing.

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Book SynopsisA collection of quilts and quilted projects for landscape-inspired quilts including full-sized bed quilts, wall hangings and more.

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Book SynopsisA collection of 40 patterns for animal-themed bed quilts, rugs, mats and wall hangings made using jelly roll pre-cut fabric.

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Book SynopsisFind the perfect design for a pot holder for any time of the year or occasion to dress up your kitchen. Pot Holders for All Seasons includes 20 easy-to-make whimsical appliqued pot holders which will appeal to both quilters and sewists. Select one of the designs, pull out your scrap basket and you're ready to start stitching. Tutorial sidebars include raw-edge fusible appliqué, padded appliqué, mitered corner binding and cutting bias strips. Templates are also included. 'Jazz up your pot holders and bring life to the kitchen with these fun designs. Practical yet charming to look at. These quilted pot holders are in a variety of designs, quick to make and perfect for gifts.' www.yarnsandfabrics.co.ukTrade ReviewJazz up your pot holders and bring life to the kitchen with these fun designs. Practical yet charming to look at. These quilted pot holders are in a variety of designs, quick to make and perfect for gifts. Chris has created pot holders for occasions and more. There are traditional square pot holders but with adorable animals, round ones and there are also pear-shaped, apple-shaped or leaf-shaped, fish-shaped, heart-shaped pot holders and many are decorated with animals. The camper van and house are superb. There is even a microwave bowl cosy. Great for fetes and bazaars, these quilted pot holders will use up your scraps too. There are 20 in all to choose from, and you might wish to make them all. Some are based on traditional quilt block patterns, some are pieced and some appliqued. You'll find general instructions and also raw-edge fusible applique, padded applique, mitered corner binding, bias strip cutting instructions too. Each project comes with clear photos and step-by-step instructions. Pattens are graded for skill level. The templates are given full size. Recommended. * yarnsandfabrics.co.uk *

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book SynopsisAre scrap piles wreaking havoc in your sewing space? Not sure what to do with all those tiny bits of gorgeous prints you hate to part with? Modern quilters Amanda and Cheryl share a passion for scraps-they're here to help you get creative and sew new life into every last little piece. Your Sunday mornings just got a whole lot cozier! Trade ReviewFeb 12 Sunday Morning Quilts shows you how to use every last scrap of treasured fabric in your collection. In sixteen new and delightful projects, the book champions the original ethos behind patchwork - make do and mend. However, the quilts in the book are decidedly modern in design, construction, fabric choice and colour. The quilts are mostly made from what would normally be seen as leftovers, i.e. any piece of fabric less than a 1/4 yard in size. Careful attention is paid to the need to sort your scraps before embarking on a scrappy quilt: in fact, preparation and quilting/binding basics take up almost half the book before the projects begin. The projects are then organized so that you can take advantage of your scraps from the largest pieces to the smallest. This is to encourage you to work through your oddments in a systematic manner and eventually end up with no scraps at all, and then you have the perfect excuse to buy lots more gorgeous fabric. The first project is a lovely idea to get your preparation started - quilted storage boxes in rainbow colours to organize all your scraps! The quilts are bold, bright and clean, and the co-authors actively encourage you to be creative and to come up with your own designs. * Popular Patchwork *June 12 elebrate great fabric by using every scrap-this is the premise behind Sunday Morning Quilts. Modern quilters Amanda Jean Nyberg and Cheryl Arkison share a passion for scraps. From sorting to piecing to finishing, this book will help you turn your treasured leftovers into a modern quilt with your own Sunday-morning style. * Stitch *

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Book SynopsisConfidently pair fabric prints, using three no-fail strategies: controlled colorway, distinct blocks, or scrap crazies! Whatever your approach, you’ll love stripping along with the popular pattern and fabric designer behind GE Designs. Gudrun Erla’s quick yet impressive patterns only look complicated. Complete with helpful charts and illustrations, everything from fabric selection to block construction is made clear and simple, even for beginners. Trade ReviewStrip with precision. 12 designs in multiple sizes. Easy to follow, clear instructions. Styles to suit everyone. If you have a collection of strip rolls in your workroom, here is how to store, design and make strip quilts. Each project has at a glance materials, construction, fabulous photos and beautiful designs. I love Stash books, they know just what quilters want - colour, design and ease of use. It isn't often that I can say I like every design in a book - but this one is a classic keeper - I love them all. This is an inspired book that is well designed and perfect for stitching the quilt you'll love. * Karen Platt- yarnsandfabrics.co.uk *I’m not a patchworker but I love this book! It makes me think that I could be one! The instructions are fantastic, so clear, with lots of pictures and diagrams, and tables to show you exactly how many blocks and how much fabric you need for each type of quilt. So, I decided to have a go at the Ripple quilt. A small one. I chose this one because it was all straight lines and no diagonals so I thought I’d have a chance of getting it right! It starts off with an insight into how to collect, prepare and store your strips, which would be really helpful for someone with a larger stash, and suggests steam ironing them before use to reduce the chance of shrinkage. The book then talks about each quilt design and gives some ideas for how to select fabrics to make them look effective. It also has some pages of general instructions, including some great pictures on how to bind a quilt using straight-grain binding. Each section of the book is a complete project. This makes it easy to concentrate and not get lost! It also tells you the size of your finished block, which in the “Ripple Effect” version is 12ins x 16ins. I knew I didn’t need a full size quilt, so wondered whether I should just make a couple of blocks and turn them into cushions or bags … Or whether to make a long thin one to go across the end of the bed … which would also mean it would fit in the sewing machine! Decisions! I had an absolutely awesome fun time making this and I LOVE my new cushion! I even managed to put in a zip! For the full review and pictures of Jane's project go to: http://www.janecameron.co.uk/blog/search-press-book-review-strip-your-stash-dynamic-quilts-made-from-strips-gudrun-erla * Jane Cameron *

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Book SynopsisWith more than one million books sold, the author who taught the world to quilt is back again! Internet and television personality Alex Anderson’s “big book” of quilting includes indispensable, straightforward advice—essential tools, binding basics, and easy-to-understand piecing and appliqué. Become a master of hand and machine quilting, and finish with professional touches that will turn you into a confident, lifelong quilter. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced quilter, this must-have compendium will find a permanent home next to your sewing machine! Lessons on fabrics, color theory, rotary cutting, piecing, appliqué, paper foundation piecing, settings, borders, hanging sleeves, labels, and more Must-read tips for quilters of all skills levels Complete quiltmaking course in a book Helpful how-to photography and stunning finished quiltsTrade ReviewThis is a comprehensive introduction to patchwork and quilting. It begins with the anatomy of a quilt, terms such as block, pieced and sashing are explained. It progresses through equipment, fabric and drafting patterns to binding and adding a label. The advice for rotary cutting and piecing is given clearly. It is well illustrated with photos. There are no instructions for blocks but there are techniques for tricky Y seams and curves. Quilting, both hand and machine, are explained well. In fact it is almost impossible to find any areas that are not covered. It is an encyclopaedia of patchwork and quilting. * British Patchwork and Quilting *Don't know how to quilt? Want to learn but can't get to classes? Here is a superb book to help you along the journey. Few sit down and create a masterpiece straight away, but this book will certainly iron out a few wrinkles. Learn all about materials, tools and techniques. Found out how to design, draft, cut, piece, applique, construct, quilt and finish. Expand your quilting horizons no matter what your skill level. This is not just about tips and measurements, this book encourages you to play and think before committing. Includes great photography and easy to follow instructions throughout. An absolute classic. * YarnsandFabrics.co.uk *

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

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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 SynopsisRescue your fabric scraps—even the smallest pieces—with 16 satisfying quilts and projects. Sew modern quilts for everyday use that will help you get back to the roots of quiltmaking, with projects designed to help you use up every last scrap. Learn sorting and storage tips to help you plan your next quilt, with projects categorised by type of scrap—squares, strings, triangles, or little snippets. Sew pretty pincushions and cards for instant gratification, saving the most treasured pieces for a full-size quilt. You’ll never look at scraps the same way again! ' We all have them and sometimes they overwhelm the sewing studio. We're talking scraps - too good to throw out and awaiting the "someday" they might be used. If you're looking for 16 great scrap-suitable projects, this is the book for you.' American Quilt RetailerTrade ReviewWe all have them, and sometimes they overwhelm the sewing studio. We're taking scrapstoo good to throw out and awaiting the "someday" they might be used. If you're looking for 16 great scrap-suitable projects, this is your book. There's good info on storing and organizing your bits, how to work with colors and values, using tiny bits and orphan blocks. Look for fun projects using strips, squares, triangles and snippetsfrom to quilts to small accessory and decor items. American Quilt Retailer, February 2017 Amanda Jean Nyberg, who co-authored the popular Sunday Morning Quilts with Cheryl Arkison, has now written her own book of delightful quilt patterns, using something every quilter has plenty of - scraps! Quilter's Connection, Spring 2017Table of ContentsIntroduction The Journey How It All Started Frugality and Rescuing Fabric Going Scrap Crazy Finding Your Niche Scrap Management Where Do All The Scraps Come From? Where Do I Start? Sorting and Storing Mixing Materials Making Scrap Quilts Choosing a Color Scheme Paying Attention to Value You Don't Need To Use It All Context Is Important What to Do When Things Aren't Working Using Up the PiecesAlternate Project Ideas Taking Your Time The Flip Side Scrap Options Stash Options Using Orphan or Test Blocks Projects Using Squares Mini Nines Hot & Cold Subtle Projects Using Strings & Strips Slopes Donuts (The Size of Your Head) Scrap Happy Rails June Projects Using Triangles All Sizes Chain of Diamonds Remainders Projects Using Snippets Ring Me Skinny Pinnie Fabric and Paper Pincushion Bright Birch Tree Pincushion Pillow Pincushion Cards About the Author

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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 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 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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