There are quilt books to suit every skill level. These books will appeal to both novices and experienced quilters.
S is for Scraps-18 Great Quilts
By Gayle Bong, this highly recommended title was released by Martingale/That Patchwork Place. These rich and vibrant designs showcase those long neglected scraps quilters have hidden away. The projects include wonderful classic favorites, such as the Log Cabin, Nine Patch, Fox and Goose, and numerous star blocks.
The projects feature scrumptious quilts in a broad range of sizes from throws and large wall quilts to bed quilts. The Log Cabin project would make a wonderful seasonal project if appropriate colors are used. Most of these delightful designs are suitable for beginners. Some of the quilts are quick and easy enough for weekend projects. .
The author explains several of her innovative techniques, including easy strip pieced triangles called Twin Peaks and the Thirtysomething star blocks. For the most part, these are strip-pieced projects. For each project, this has a list of materials and supplies and a cutting chart. There are color illustrated, step by step directions from start to finish along with color layouts.
This title takes the guesswork out of choosing fabrics for your scrap quilts. The author offers time-saving sewing and organizational tips as well. This also covers all of the basic cutting, sewing, and quilting basics from start to finish.
Word Play Quilts-Easy Techniques from the UnRuly Quilter
By Tonya Ricucci, this was also released by Martingale/That Patchwork Place. The author’s easy, fuss-free method of shaping letters and numbers involves no precise piecing or templates. Perfect for beginners, this method is much easier than appliqué. With these innovative techniques you can create sensational fabric greeting cards, cubicle and wall quilts, and bed quilts in all sizes.
The author explains how to select the best fabrics, such as special prints, for word quilts. This features nearly 24 examples of free-pieced quilts in all sizes. It explains every technique that quilters need to know. This has a sample alphabet with complete, step by step, color illustrated instructions on how to cut and piece each specific letter and number. There is also a gallery of inspiring alphabet and word samplers made with these techniques.
Quilters are sure to love the three quilt projects. The items include Christmas and Halloween quilts as well as a patriotic Americana design for summer. These small, seasonal, quick and easy projects would make great banners, door and wall decorations, and table toppers. For each project this has a list of materials and supplies along with a cutting chart, a color layout, and color illustrated, step by step directions from start to finish.
Quilting 101-Look Learn and Create
Released by Creative Publishing International/Quayside, it is part of the 101 Series. This hardcover with a hidden wire-o binding has a DVD with projects, techniques, and tutorials. This wonderful quilting primer is a must-have for beginners. It features 16 appealing projects. Each project demonstrates specific sewing/quilting skills and techniques.
Among the designs are the Log Cabin, Rail Fence, and Nine Patch. The easy, no-fail projects feature all sorts of items for home and personal use. These include quilts in all sizes, pillows, coasters, place mats, and a bag. There is also a quilt-as-you-go Christmas stocking.
The techniques include various appliqué methods, paper piecing, hand and machine quilting. The first section presents all of the basic sewing and quilting techniques, including how to use the sewing machine. This also discusses quilting supplies and aids, and explains how to cut the fabric. Throughout the book, there are boxes with quick tips.
For most projects, this offers additional options, such as seasonal motifs. There are complete, easy to follow, color illustrated, step by step directions for each project and technique. For each project, this has a chart listing the materials and supplies and a color layout. The appendix includes a glossary of terms and templates.
For disclosure purposes I received review copies of these books from the publishers.
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