Quilting Books

I love this book. I have made a few cards using the designs in this book. Although it is primarily intended to be used with the patterns inside, I have had great success with punches too.

My mother was a tremendously talented person, and one of the things she instilled in me was the concept of looking at one craft and extracting ideas from it for another. The cross currents of ideas produce some exceptional artwork. My mother would approve of Ms Foose.


I love paper. Really, just paper. It represents such incredible potential. Sometimes it's almost painful for me to make something of it, because that would reduce the sense of latent beauty. Sanda Lounsbury Foose's book makes it evident that until paper is used and its potential released, it really isn't anything yet.

I've had books on origami, Kirigami, and quilling, and all of them have been enjoyable. This book adds to that repertoire and reveals how cut work can be combined with folding, color, texture and design to produce some delightful cards. Although all of the cards are wonderful works of art, some of them stand out as exceptional.

One of my favorites is what the author has labled a "square on square" type, The Gordian Knot (pp. 30-31), which has the character of a Celtic knot or Islamic tiles and carved work. As the author presents it, the colors are very striking. The blue on red card is a particular eye-puncher! Those of the Islamic faith will find this an elegant design with which to decorate cards for Ramadan and other holidays.

The Double Irish Chain (pp. 22-23), in the same section, makes use of folding, windows and color to create an amazing effect. For those of you who are into making your own books or crafting old books and magazines into new art, this card, left slightly open, is a little like the accordian pleated books with a tunnel. You could easily use it in the same way.

Another favorite in this section is the Interlocked Squares (pp.32-33). I was especially fond of the decorative chains and ornaments. For those folks of the Jewish faith, the ornament looks much like a Star of David and would make nice holiday cards for special events.

In the "circle upon circle" section of the book, I liked all of the cards pictured on p. 36, which are based upon small concentric circles folded to reveal different colors and creat different patterns. Those of you who do a lot of quilting will undoubtedly recognize the motifs. My favorite of the section, is the Clam Shell pattern (pp.46-47), where either small circles or scalloped strips are arranged in something of a fishscale pattern in a window. Here an accordian fold is used to provide a glued enclosure for the design as well as a place for your greetings and messages.

My absolute favorite is the Castle Wall (pp. 98-99) design in the last section of the book, "whirling hexagons and octagon design." This is a trompe l'oeil pattern that is created by stacking several layers of colored paper, each with different sections removed. The layering produces what appears like a bird's eye view of the top of a castle tower. Wonderful.

The book is dedicated primarly to cards, but it also has some delightful paper ornaments and several lovely paper boxes--I love box designs and already have many of these from other sources but this is a nice collection for the uninitiated. Patterns for everything are given in the back, and the author is very clear about what needs to be removed or added in order to produce the designs.

A delightful book of ideas.

This book gives good basic information. The patterns in it are great. A little misleading in title but can be adapted to actual paper for cards. The quilts are actually made of cloth using paper to guide the stitching together of the pieces.

This is a marvelous book in the tradition of the author's work. The book builds from straightforward quilt blocks to the most elaborate designs, all in paper! The patterns and directions are clear and well-organized and the results are exquisite - it's hard to tell how they come together on first look, just like a complex quilt, they're like little visual puzzles. The author's paper cards are the kind of things that once given are kept forever.

This seems to have some interesting ideas and patterns for small quilts. I am eager to try some.

Just got the new book from Wendy and it's just as nice as her first book. Actually you can hardly compare them, because of the so different contents, which the cover shows too. In this book are all kinds of mini-quilts. Even one from christmas! This is my favourite! Can't wait to get started with these projects.

Paper piecing ---the minute I hear that, I quake in fear. BUT Ms. Vosters has written a book that just might change all that. Instead of trying to learn this technique on full sized quilts, why not start small? I mean that's how we learned to walk --- taking baby steps!

This book provides 17 small projects all done by paper piecing. There is even a "picture-scape"! And the templates are full sized in the book so all you need to do is copy them and you have your templates ready to go.

Six pages of basic instructions tell you about the fabric, batting, how to paper piece and finishing techniques. Interspersed in this section are lots of tips so make sure to take the time to read this section before starting. Then pick out your projects and start sewing. Each project has a skill level at the very start giving you an idea of just how involved the project will be. There is a material and cutting list, along with assembling and finishing instructions. There is a color photo and a paragraph about the particular project.

If paper piecing is something you have always wanted to learn or, as in my case, have been afraid to try, this is a book to guild you step-by-step to achieving the skills to do it. Remember, we all started out walking by baby steps and making mini quilts will be the baby steps you need to learn paper piecing.

Wendy has done it again with a great book! The construction approach to the mini quilts has been greatly simplified. I just got my book and ran to copy all the patterns. I cannot wait to get started on the wonderful projects this book has! The book is loaded with hints and colored pictures. If you ever wanted to try to make a mini quilt but were afraid of all the little pieces, get this book because it take mini quilts to a great new level. Keep up the good work Wendy, I love your books!!

Has Joen Wolfrom ever written a bad book? She's really amazing. I have four of her books now, and have learned so much from each one of them. The ideas in this book have changed the way I look at quilts. She presents practical, clear methods for modifying traditional designs to make more complex and striking quilts. The color pictures alone are worth the price of the book; the quilts are SO beautiful. Be aware that this is a book intended to provide you with the tools to design your own quilts; it does not include detailed designs, piecing instructions, etc.

This book features some of the most stunning, dynamic quilts I have ever seen. I think the major theme of this book is optical illusion quilting. Most of the compositions aim to tease your depth and/or motion perception. The use of color is also remarkable. This book has inspired me to open up the old scrap bin. Highly recommended!

I love this book. It is a must for any quilter's library. There are many examples of stunning inovative quilts made from traditional patterns. There are also some less traditional art quilts, but the majority are traditional with a punch. I borrowed this book from my library and now I am buying it because I don't want to return it to the library!

PATCHWORK PERSUASION by Joen Wolfrom is more art book than work book, but interesting nevertheless. If you've been making quilts for awhile you will find this book relatively straightforward. If you've never made a quilt or are not terribly practiced then it will prove less useful. Wolfrom provides an illustration of each of the quilts she discusses in the text (there are many of them) and for some, examples of the basic block used in the construction of the quilt.

Some of these quilts are quite literally works of art--many of recent origin, such as "Layfayette Square" (1993) and "Georgetown on the Potomac" (1995). In fact, most of the quilts were recently made by contemporary American artists. Excluding the cover example ('Sunlight and Wheels' by Junko Sawada of Yokohama-shi Japan) my favorite is Carol Bryer Fallert's 'Oswego, Illinois' which shows a stylized idyllic fall river scene viewed through a garden lattice. Consider this book the next best thing to the annual quilt show (or better depending on the exhibits at the show).

I think I will really enjoy this book. I have a few of her other patterns that I really like. They are fun to do and makes it look like you have worked harded than you really have. Well written.

This is a great technical method for using this particular technique for making piecing looked curved without actually sewing curves. I love it.

Wonderful book, it was recommended by a friend. I couldn't find it in the quilt store. Loved the price, as well! Thanks!

I made a quilt made from the author's pattern at a class for my quilt guild retreat. The technique is not hard the way she describes it. There were some gorgeous ones made. I haven't made anything from the book yet but I hope to do so soon.

Loved this book and the stories of the people and how they lived. From the poor to the wealthy, they all found a way to bring a little color, warmth and light into their lives. The pictures are excellent and the stories are touching. One of the best I have found so far.

This book isn't just about quilts and not just about people. This book is about how quilts helped a primitive Appalachian people survive the cold winters. Each quilt is not only described but the story of it's maker is told with it and why or how they made the quilt. There are amazing touching stories of survival throughout. A must read for collectors of quilts and for those who want to remember a past so different from today. Any Appalachian grandparent would treasure this book.

This book is superb & worth the extra effort to special order it. The author interviews women (and a few men) of Southern Appalachia, where quilting as a mainstay of life has never really gone out of fashion -- hence they've never had a quilting "revival" either. Photographs are gorgeous, and the stories about the people make you feel rooted to the land. One of the more intriguing stories is the "Hanging Elephant" quilt, which shows an applique block of an elephant being hung for the crime of killing a Tennessee man in 1916. The book is printed on heavy, high quality paper. Quilt history buffs and anthropologists will love this book. As for hobbyists, it's not a how-to book, but the photographs will furnish much inspiration and food for thought.

I bought this book while visiting Williamsburg with a friend. It so captured my attention that I had to read some of the stories to my companion. We were both quickly enthralled. I brought it back with me and introduced my quilting group to it. Several more copies sold the next day. The stories are heart warming. The photographs are incredible.

The man who picked up quilting only after his wife passed. Well. Just amazing.

The wedding quilt made in the late 1800s by friends and relatives of the bride. Awe inspiring.

This book is not a "how to" book. But if you are interested in quilts, quilting and quilters, it is a must for your library.

I became inspired looking at the designs. The only problem was finding the gouge blade she uses to make the stencils. I still haven't found it - even in the listed resources.

Pepper Cory first published this book in 1987. The old book featured full size patterns and was 11 x 17" which still doesn't fit in my book shelf. The new book is a much better size to make it easier to resize patterns. It has more patterns plus pages with photos of how to make stencils, mark quilts,choosing the right quilting design for your quilt,and 70 pages of quilting designs. There is a small section of "judging tips" in case you are interested in entering your quilt in a show. Some, but not all of the patterns are continuous line designs for machine quilting. I believe that the others could be adapted if you wanted to use them for machine quilting. There is also a 2 page section of miniature quilting designs.
I think the Pepper Cory Quilting Pattern Collection would be a good edition to your quilting library

Pepper Cory's QUILTING PATTERN COLLECTION is actually a collection of best-selling patterns from QUILTING DESIGNS FROM THE AMISH and QUILTING DESIGNS FROM ANTIQUE QUILTS, completely redrawn and compiled into this new collection. Over six dozen such designs have been resized to make for easier enlargements, reductions and scanning, while tips on how to blend these patterns into continuous lines, using stencils, and more offer both hand and machine quilters a range of options and ideas - and some twenty new designs, too.

Precisly what you're looking for whether or not you're a beginning quilter or an old timer if you need new quilting patterns for your projects.

I'm a beginner so this book is expanding my horizons. Maybe in 5 years when I retire I'll make a little extra $$ by quilting professionally. Until then, I'll keep practicing (so I can get really good) and dreaming about the future. There are so many hints & tricks that I wouldn't have considered. Thank you for pointing me in the right direction!

This book is an absolute necessity if you are going to become a professional quilter or even think you might want to be one. Thelen takes you through the process: from the very beginning questions you need to ask yourself, to providing you with charts and numerous 'worksheets' to figure your timing, planning and managing clients. She walks you though figuring out how much to charge, how much time you spend, how to market your services, what services to provide and even what office supplies you should probably have. She goes through the difference in stippling, custom quilting, and patterned meandering, charging by the hour or by the size. She goes through it all. This is not a pattern book though. Look elsewhere for patterns, look here for good solid information. Worth a purchase for the reader interested in starting a business.

This book is a MUST READ for anyone considering running a Quilting Business! Straight forward advise and guidance.

This book was so valuable in helping me start my business. Carol gives so many helpful examples of how to draw up the necessary forms, etc. Very helpful and uselful overall

I'm thrilled with ths book. The instructions are well written for the beginner to understand. The illustrations are great, I can't wait to start a quilt from this book.

THis book was bought only for the Quilt on the cover. I love it easy instructions and fun to make. Beginners will love this 1 as well.

Sandy's book is a delight. The quilts are designed well and her clear concise instructions make each quilt easy to construct. The photography in the book, as well as the display, is very nice, showing a newer hip Leisure Arts publication. I have made several of the quilts from this book and have been pleased with the outcome. I would highly reccomend this book to other quilters.

I received Quick and Easy Romantic Quilts. I made one of the quilts, Heather's Lacy Heart which is featured on the front cover of the book. The directions were quite easy to understand and the finished product was a sight to behold. I would definitely recommend this book for beginner to intermediate.

Barbara Deming is a fabulous storyteller! Her collection of short stories in The Quilt Maker is testament to this fact. She has the ability to draw in a reader with the lead sentence of every story, and keep the reader's interest throughout. The Quilt Maker is filled with down-home type stories, of city and country life. Each story is titled after a quilt pattern, and talented Ms. Deming brings more meaning to each pattern than just a designed piece of fabric. The patterns as stories become fabrics of life that any person can relate to and cherish. I highly recommend The Quilt Maker to anyone seeking short, but wonderful reading material.

The stories in this collection are very human. The author has a special ability that transfers emotions right off the pages and into the reader. If you like the Chicken Soup Series, you'll love this book. If you don't, you'll love this book.

There are quilters in my family and they, too, have read Barbara's book and rate it as highly as I. Her stories woven around various quilt patterns are most interesting. Some of them are heart gripping while others put one in the center of the setting as though experiencing the event itself. Also, the size of the book makes it handy to carry to read while waiting in line. One of my favorite stories is 'Flower Garden' on page 121, perhaps because it has sentimental value, and also because it tells a vivid story.

The Quilt Maker by Barbara Deming is a fine collection of short stories revolving around the art of quilt making. Ms. Deming creates a patchwork of hand-stitched stories all wrapped up in love, nostalgia and romance.

I have just had the privilege to read a unique, fascinating book,Quilt of America by Carole J. Gariepy! Although I would normally read a book straight through, I could not do it this time! Branden Books has created a true "coffee-table masterpiece" that should be prominently displayed. It is beautifully created with bright colors, fine detail and presentation, but more importantly, you will want to take your time and read each segment with careful study.

Quilt of America is about quilts, yes. But it is so much more!

Carole Gariepy and her husband selected "Turtle" and went on a tour of America! After each visit to a national monument, the home place of a famous individual in history, a visit with not-so-famous quilters, or with individuals representing a certain profession, such as firemen or teachers, Carole forces us to stop and consider each and every situation in a unique, intimate way.

You see, Carole was on a Mission! She was making a quilt for her son!

No matter where Carole and her husband Gerry traveled, she immediately became your tour guide to the place, to the person. In a left-hand block at the beginning of each story, Carole shared her quilt patch selection for that particular story. Some you could immediately enjoy and appreciate; e.g., the white longhaired cat of course called to this "lover" of all things feline! More often, though, you next began to learn about their latest tour stop, and Carole personally shares what she learned! (She wrote later in the book that she started writing immediately after each visit and they were once again on the road.) Along with the historical lesson, Carole then presents a quilt, sometimes directly related to the site visited. More often, she has selected the quilt based upon her blending of the unique personalities involved in the events, and she merges the two into a perspective that is hers but is so easily viewed that it also becomes yours.

At the end of each segment, she then writes a few personal lines to her son, explaining exactly why she chose the two quilt patches to represent their experience. I admit it, I had to go back to the beginning of each segment so that I could see and respond to her choice for the remembrance. It truly was an insightful experience to have an artist explain how each and every choice was made in the creation of her latest work.

With so many options to choose from I chose my favorites to share!

· A Signature Snowflake quilt of 1848 from Weymouth and Braintree Massachusetts provided the only documentation of the women in that locale since only men were recorded in the census.
· Graveyard Quilt made from clothes belonging to the family documented the birth and death records for the family of Elizabeth Mitchell.
· Miami Centennial Quilt documented Southern Florida and featured Henry Morrison Flagler's railroad into the area.
· Jesse Owens, one of the country's top athletes in the 20th century, won gold medals in four strenuous track events proving to Hitler that his theories about race were wrong. Of course Hitler left the games there in Germany so he would not have to shake the winner's hand. Jesse's Memorial Park is in Oakville, Alabama.
· About 50 cats reside at Hemingway's Key West Florida home--both then and now!
· "The Totally Techno Babes," a quilting group volunteered to help and wound up making 30 bright and funny quilts for the children of a Ukraine Orphanage.
· A woman sees a quilt being used to cover furniture in a truck bed as she waits for the green light. She followed that truck, and wound up with a Grandmother's Flower Garden!
· Louis Tiffany, known for his beautiful artistic masterpieces, never knew that Sandra Dockstader mimicked his designs first in her quilt, Glass Roses.
· Mount Desert Rock's story highlighted the history of those who maintained our lighthouses for hundreds of years. When the lighthouse keeper went for supplies, the wife took over his duties. He always brought her a gift, the best of which was soil in a barrel and seeds. Fall and winter seas washed the soil away but the process was begun again each spring. Later, sailors transported the earth so the Mistress's rocks could continue to bloom!
· Kathleen Lee created Mama and Baby to alert the public of the need to protect Endangered Species. Mama and Baby is a beautiful quilt portrait of a manatee and her baby. The manatee is the most endangered marine animal; the greatest threat is the motorboat!
· My personal favorite was the story about Carole Lombard after whom the author was named, and Wyvern, the Middle Ages term for dragon, a truly breathtaking quilt!

This author may have been creating a quilt for her son and her family; however, in turning the activity into a book, she has created a true masterpiece that needs to be shared across the world. The historical writings are concise and informative, well written and documented. The pictures of quilts are outstanding and carefully representative of the various types of work, not just those that are beautifully created, but those that were sewn by millions of women for the sole purpose of providing warmth, comfort and a touch of beauty into their respective homes. I applaud this work! Not only is it a must-read for quilters, but also it truly is a coffee-table asset for all American homes! Consider it as a wonderful Christmas or birthday present! You just "gotta" get this one!

I'm a new quilter and like it that quilts ranging from
the top winners in the country to the most humble
everyday ones get recognition for their importance to
the quilter and our American heritage.

I was pleasantly surprised with this book, and my wife found this book this book to be a interesting and fun to read. In over 230 pages you'll be treated to over 100 stories about different people, thus allowing the quilt to take on a life of its own.

Stories about Eli Whitney, Uncle Sam, Martin Luther King, Norman Rockwell, Clara Barton, Elvis, Jefferson Davis, Davy Crockett, Sacagawea and Casey Jones are but a few of the characters you find in this book. The history along with the travel is what builds this quilt.

It is truly a great reading and written for all age groups and along the way you might find out something about yourself, an excellent job!

This book gave me such an appreciation for the art of quilting. I will never look at a quilt in the same way again. I have never made a quilt before. But, after reading this book I want to. This book explores how woman used quilting as a means of expressing their emotions and as a way of preserving their faminly history and memories. This book is also a wonderful reference book for history buffs. Every page is filled with interesting facts about great americans who have given so much to our country and our way of life. I highly recomend this book. Not just for quilters, but for anyone who loves history and trivia.