Quilting Books

Great book full of very useful information. Only drawback was that I had to get it in paperback with out the spiral spine.

This is a great book: Outstanding illustrations,super ideas, easy to follow directions.
Wish I HAD THIS BOOK TWO YEARS AGO. I bought one for my sister and she loves it.

This is the best book. It gives you lots of info on quilting both hand and machine. With lots of pictures and written info. Good book for the beginner.

A great book for someone getting started in quilt making. Wife has had an earlier copy of this book for some time. This copy was ordered for a Grand Daughter that entered into a new career two years ago, that being a first time young wife dedicated to becoming a profesional Home maker. Am told this book is a step in the right direction.

I've been quilting (self-taught) for 18 months and bought this book about 6 months ago, so I'm not quite a beginner but still have plenty to learn. I use it as a reference work, but unfortunately I have learnt to use it with a pinch of salt. I made the mistake of using one of the tables for calculating how to cut a certain type of triangle. Thankfully I double-checked with a template before cutting my fabric, as the formula given was wrong, although I then had all the trouble of cutting fabric with two sets of markings on it. The formula for calculating the width of binding is also incorrect. I've not checked any of the other formulae, but I'm extremely wary of using them now.

This book has no overall contents section, which is awkward, although there is a contents page for each section at its start. It is divided into the following sections, and the pages are renumbered at the start of each section, e.g. 8-12, which again is an awkward way to do things, although it is useful that the section name is printed in the outside margin of every page.

1. Tools, notions and supplies
2. Fabric and colour
3. Planning pieced blocks
4. Planning the quilt top
5. Cutting
6. Hand piecing
7. Machine piecing
8. Hand and machine applique
9. Assembling the quilt top
10. Basting and backing
11. Hand and machine quilting
12. Binding and finishing
13. Specialty techniques
14. Glossary
15. Index

As you can see, this covers the whole process of traditional quilting fairly well, and as it's a long book, there is plenty in it. There are oodles of nice clear photographs, good headings, diagrams, charts and formulae (which may not be correct!), separate instructions for left-handers where applicable, and spaces at the end of every section where you may write your own notes.

Where techniques are discussed (a few aren't - bargello quilting gets a paragraph saying what it is but no instructions, for instance), they are usually discussed thoroughly. There are usually several ways to do anything in quilting, and a lot of the time this book will describe several options, though not always. For instance, it gives a variety of options for joining multiple pieces to make backing, but only one option (and not the most popular either) for joining two pieces of batting. I'm not wildly happy with the basting instructions generally, though they're certainly useful when used alongside other instructions. I also feel that a lot more space should be given to hand-quilting technique, where only one page is devoted to the all-important quilting running stitch. I can't judge the sections on machine-sewing as I have yet to learn how to use a sewing machine, but as is usual for quilting books, machine-sewing is assumed to be the norm. Where it comes into its own is in giving a lot more information about hand-sewing than most quilting books these days do, and as a hand-sewer I'm extremely grateful for that.

There are very few troubleshooting sections, which is a particular loss in a book which is giving out incorrect formulae: if you follow this book's instructions to the letter, you're going to run into problems. There are definitely gaps. For example, the only method suggested for marking up fabrics is to use templates, when many quilters prefer to calculate the piece sizes and draw them straight onto the fabric using an acrylic ruler (a method that is, in my experience, far more accurate and far quicker). It doesn't even discuss making sure your shapes will fit together the best way possible to use up the minimum fabric (personally I always sketch them out on graph paper first), let alone how to calculate how much fabric to buy.

The most serious omission is that this book is only interested in old-fashioned quilting. If you plan to spend your entire quilting career sticking to traditional geometric patterns based on repeated square blocks, you'll be fine - as long as you don't expect the book to teach you how to make any of these blocks! Some basic units, such as flying geese or a square within a square, are covered, and there are discussions on the grid underlying blocks as well as five pages of pictures of traditional blocks (a couple of which I'd say are wrong), but nowhere does the book walk you through putting together a traditional block. This is unusual in quilting books aimed at beginners, which usually give instructions for a few blocks and indicate the level of difficulty for each. If your only source of quilting instructions is this book, half of the blocks in the gallery will be beyond you, since there is absolutely no information on how to sew more complex blocks depicted such as the Mariner's Compass or Double Wedding Ring. To be honest, an encyclopaedia-style book should really have a much fuller block gallery than this.

If you want to learn how to make art quilts, or how to piece quilt tops that aren't made of geometrical repeating blocks, there isn't a word to help you. Ruth McDowell is a good author to go to there, and there are many books and websites discussing more unusual techniques.

I've reluctantly given this book three stars. There are too many important omissions in this book, and for a book that sets itself up as a start-to-finish bible, readers may be deceived into thinking that it will cover all of their needs. More importantly, some of the information is plain wrong and will wreck a quilt if followed literally, and some of the instructions give rather odd methods while ignoring the most commonly-used ones. If you take all of that with a pinch of salt, and have other quilting books around to fill the gaps, as well as checking techniques before using them on a full quilt, then it is certainly a very useful book to have in your quilting library.

Very informational book on quilting processes. The pictures are helpful and the information is presented well.

Lots of Quick and Easy patterns in this book. Eleanor explains
things so that you can put them together quickly. My copy is a
class book, and my quilt turned out gorgeous. Has hung in my
quilt shop for several months now.

I enjoyed reading this book and learned a few new techniques for building blocks and I have decided to start some of the book's projects as soon as possible.

I have a collection of dozens of quilting books and this has to be the prettiest, most compelling and easiest to follow. I'm on my second quilt from this book and it couldn't be easier. I can't recommend it highly enough.

The instructions of this book are so good that I made the quarter log cabin quilt in just a few days. The illustrations are very helpful.

I teach a machine quilting class and while there are superb books out there to learn machine quilting, the cost and content are excellent for someone learning the basics. I highly recommend this to anyone who is thinking about trying machine quilting. It has exercises to practice that start building confidence in skills.

I learned, on my own, how to quilt from this one book. It is well worth the investment.
TWyles

I needed help with quilting designs; this workbook helps newbies like me and will be a great reference later. I have followed every practice and have my small practice quilts to look back to as I choose designs for particular quilt tops. It's also helped me get to know my new machine. Excellent all around.

I think the book is very good. It gives you detailed instructions on how to do a quilt. I have not tried quilting yet, but it seems like it would not be to hard to do.

This book has step by step instructions along with practice lessons. I took a quilting course and this will be a great book to refer back to.

Very happy with the purchase and went straight to the coffee shop to drool over it as I couldn't wait until I got home! Can't wait to get started on a project.

I saw an example of this convergence quilt in a quilt store and wanted to learn more about the pattern. Book is well layed out with clear and varied photos. Ricky Tims gives you a simple first convergence project and then shows variations that are gradually increasing in difficulty. He discusses fabric selection, gives tips, has a trouble shooting section. I recommend this book if you want to try a more artsy type quilt that can be made from simple to more complicated.

This is the easiest assembly I have ever done. I used leftovers, two colors I hated, and one of those "What was I thinking when I bought that?" psychadelic squares... Well, the end result was FAB-U-Lous. The directions are very clear, Ricky's writing is enjoyable. Will be a permanent fixture in my quilting room. Thanks Ricky !!!!

To know Ricky Timms is to love him and the incredible energy he brings to his work. His methods are never "same old,same old." If Timms has done it, you can bet it's innovative. He's as much inspiration as process. Definitely should be on your quilt book shelf.

A fantastic book. I was really looking forward to receiving the book and my expectations were realised as the book arrived in double quick time. Thanks Amazon!

This book was in excellent condition, however, it reeked of cats! If you know what I mean. I love the book and have used it a lot (after airing it out a bit.)

One of the best quilting books I've purchased. There are so many quilts that I want to make from this book. This one is worth the money. I've referred back to it often.

I was a bit disappointed in this book. After the first 20 pages the quilts just merged into one another - the same kinds of colours (rather boring) and fabrics and most of them are stars or use other triangle pieces. Nothing that really 'grabbed' me and said 'Wow, this is a great looking quilt'! The instructions can be helpful for other projects, so it was not a total waste. I like my quilts colourful and to make a statement, not mousy and drab. Sorry, hope it doesn't put someone off buying it, but that is how I feel.

This is THE book for any quilter .. beginner or experienced sewer. Beautiful quilts and complete instructions. A MUST HAVE for any quilter's library.

I had made 4 quilts before making one from this book, so I would describe myself as between a novice and an intermediate-level quilter. Even though I have some experience,
1) I am disappointed that the instructions are not more detailed (e.g., "assemble the blocks as shown on page such and such"). I can figure it out, but it would be nice if the instructions were more specific.
2) I also find that I don't sew well enough to profit from the shortcut techniques they reccomend at the beginning of the book. My pieces do not match up well when I use those techniques, so I find myself resorting back to the way I used to construct these pieces.
3) I only like a handful of the quilts in the book. However, I am constructing one that I am very pleased with, so I guess it's a matter of personal taste.

In general, I think this book has a nice assortment of quilts, most of which don't seem terribly difficult to make. I'm glad I have this among my quilting books.

I was fortunate enough to see the Gee's Bends quilts when they toured in Houston, and they are astonishingly beautiful. The women who made these quilts found an artistic outlet in their functional craft, and these quilts represent the truest form of modern art, sewn well before painters used oil and canvas that mimic the quilt designs. This book does a beautiful job of presenting the quilts for the enjoyment of all those who can't see them in person.

In July 2006, I saw the exhibit of the Quilts of Gees Bend at the DeYoung Museum in San Francisco I didn't fully realize the importance of the quilts, so I didn't buy the book and regretted it. The quilts and their story, are haunting. Since then I have heard the quilts referred to as the the most outstanding example of US art.

Whenever I talked to quilters, I wished that I had the book to show them. Now I have it and I am very happy with the purchase. The book is beautiful and the photograhs of the quilts are great.

Because of the personal stories, the beautiful layout and large, clear colorful pictures this book was like candy to read. I learned about the history of the area, the closeness of the community and families, and the sharing and pride of a folk art. I love when people find an outlet for their art in surprising and practical ways.

The book "The Quilts of Gee's Bend" by William Arnett is a great book of history within a particular culture that is rich in resourcefulness and creativity. It easy to read if one enjoys life stories that are true and down to earth. The pictures complete the full circle of this culture- use what is available and enjoy the outcome. The world could learn a lot from this book. The Quilts of Gee's Bend: Masterpieces from a Lost Place

I remember the first time I saw photographs of the quilts of Gee's Bend in a magazine about seven years ago. I couldn't wait to learn about the amazing artists whose vision the quilts portray. This book is more outstanding than I imagined it could be. It is powerful, beautiful, sensitive, and historically accurate. I recommend The Quilts of Gee's Bend to anyone with an eye for artistic genius and a love for discovering a community of women willing to express themselves outside the box of convention. How refreshing and inspiring! Simply Exceptional!!

What a lovely trilogy of books. I hate to sew but Jennifer Chiaverini has made me want to make a pot of tea, put a thread in a needle, sit with a bunch of friends and create a work of art with fabric.

This book is such a great value - three books for the price of one. I love this series and am excited to dive into these titles. Although, be warned - it's a BIG book. Probably not one I'd want to lug on to an airplane.

I loved this book and loved that there was three books in one binding. I love this whole series.

I am fast on my way to reading every novel in this series. Each is heartwarming, informative and spellbinding.

I have always loved to sew but have not had the time in recent years because of my parents health. My good friend has me sewing again and next year I am going on a retreat with her and several other quilters. She told me about this book and I bought it on Amazon.com and read all three books while in Florida with my husband on a business trip. I called my friend while I was pool side and crying. I loved the books but I am sure my pool side friends were wondering what was going on. It was a great experience.

The best part(s) of this book are the stitching techniques demonstrated right along with the sample quilt(s). You're able to see how the stitching will look as the quilt comes together. Beautifully done with excellent diagrams and photos. The historical information is also very good. A great book to have for your quilting repetoire.

Just received this book and it exceeds my expectations. Made my selection due to the reviews of this book and thanks to all for the comments because this is a great choice. I wanted a book that gives basic instruction on making crazy quilts plus some of the more frequently used stitches,and thats just what I got. Author gives 20 pages to show different stitches and their various possiblities on a project. Inspiring photos, and suggestions for applications of crazy quilt method. This has been a find for me, doubt anyone will be disappointed with this books and all it has to offer. enjoy.

I prefe the books by Judith Montano. This was well written and illustrated. It was for the beginner, ideas were limited.

In my opinion this is the BEST book out on making Crazy Quilts. I have four others but this is my favorite. You'll love it.

Good comprehensive book on crazy quilting -- from basic construction of crazy quilt blocks to stitch diagrams and materials suggestions. Also includes drawings of how stitches would be used in crazy quilt blocks.

This book is extremely well written for new and experienced quilters alike. It has fabulous photographs of quilts and also instuctive designs in photographic form.
A must as a browsing book or as a book to use and to learn from. Also a book to enhance your handquilting skills

Quilting is my passion and this book 'feeds' it. Clear pictures and instructions, exciting use of colour and shading, personal comments by Jinny Beyer. The quilts in the book are not simple to make but can be regarded as a personal challenge to achieve the desired finished product. A satisfying reference book for all aspiring quilters, even if you do not decide to make any of the featured quilts.

I WAS VERY PLEASED WITH THE CONDITION AND SPEED WITH WHICH THIS BOOK WAS RECEIVED

I purchased this book earlier in the spring. I look at it almost everyday. I have taught myself how to hand piece and I never for one moment thought that I could. This book is a treasure, if you have the patience to teach yourself and have this book, you will learn to do exquisite work. I also purchased the CD from Amazon and have used it but not as much as the book-it would all depend on your individual learning style. The CD does a wonderful job of explaining and showing you how to create the stitches; I enjoying having both but now find myself using the book more than the CD. I also purchsed the perfect piecer from Jinny Beyer's site (althought at the time I am writing this Amazon has one listed)and this tool is a MUST HAVE if you are going to learn to hand piece in my opinion.

The book is beautiful, well written, includes some historical prespective (but not too much) you will not be sorry you purchased this book.

I quilt on my own--without benefit of classes or working with anyone else--much of the time. This book has helped me tremendously! Unlike most pattern books, the book tells the details of what it means to sew a certain type of stitch, suggests materials and tools, and even has quotes from older sewing and quilting reference books. Instructions for each process are available in as much detail as I have needed. Plus the pictures are beautiful and it's an added bonus to have patterns in the book, as well. I highly recommend this book.

I USED THIS BOOK FOR YEARS, MAKING ALMOST EVERY PATTERN IN THE BOOK AND LOANED IT TO "SOMEONE". I FELT I WAS IN WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT IT SO I PURCHASED ANOTHER. THE PATTERNS ARE SO VERSATILE AND THE TECHNIQUE CONTINUES TO BE MY FAVORITE TO TEACH AT THE LOCAL QUILT SHOP. EVERY STACK-N-WHACK I ENTERED IN A COMPETITION HAS BEEN AN AWARD WINNER. BETHANY IS A GENIUS TO HAVE CREATED THIS DRAMATIC TECHNIQUE AND TO ALLOW US TO REALLY APPRECIATE OUR LOVELY FABRICS.

I purchased this book to go with the companion book. I received it the day before I got the companion book from a friend who went to town and purchased it and brought it back.!! Speedy delivery.
Thanks

I decided to tackle a stack-n-whack for my second quilt and loved this book! The beginning couple of pages did a great job of explaining the basic process. I found that cutting out the pieces was the hardest part and once that was done, the blocks went together so quickly. I can't wait to make the same quilt again in different fabrics and compare the two results! The illusions in this book are also so amazing that it makes my quilts seem so much more professional because the design appears so complicated to a novice quilter!

I decided to tackle a stack-n-whack for my second quilt and loved this book! The beginning couple of pages did a great job of explaining the basic process. I found that cutting out the pieces was the hardest part and once that was done, the blocks went together so quickly. I can't wait to make the same quilt again in different fabrics and compare the two results! The illusions in this book are also so amazing that it makes my quilts seem so much more professional because the design appears so complicated to a novice quilter!

If you are just getting into Stack and Whack, get Karen's first book. If you really love it and want more ideas, this book will inspire you. It's such fun to see what Karen makes using today's large scale prints - she deserves a quilter's hall of fame award for inspiring many to play with prints! The mirror-image variations in this book are interesting, but I've had a hard time finding fabrics that are appropriate for them (the color saturation on the back needs to be almost as rich as the front for these to be effective since you are using both sides).