Basic Appliqui

but not what the subtitle promised. the instructions for both hand and machine applique are excellent, very thorough with many alternate suggestions to encourage quilters to find the best ways for their individual needs. there are photos accompanying the techniques, but i can't judge how useful they would be to someone not familiar with sewing and quilting. the projects are beautiful. the use of color, fabrics, settings and quilting is inspirational. the gallery includes variations of the patterns given and even a few photos of clothing embellished with applique. the reason i haven't given it a five star rating is this: the subtitle promised 1930s patterns, which i am always looking for. however, i don't think that a 19th century pattern published in the 1930s is a '1930s' pattern. there are several designs taken from 30s patterns that were in the style of the 30s, but they have been modified and simplified. and, too often, the original quilt from the 30s that was the inspiration is not pictured. whatever the design era, i have a major problem with what seems to be the quilting industry's increasing insistence on simplification of pattern and technique. i don't understand why the 21st century quilter is expected to be less skilful than a 19th century child--especially given the high standards of most of the quilters i know. while this is not the book i hoped for, it has several designs that have gone of my list of future projects and has given me ideas i will use in my own designs. i would recommend it to any quilter, especially a beginner, for the beautiful projects and the wonderful instructions.

Collaboratively compiled and presented by needlecraft and quilting experts Cindy Walter & Gail Baker Rowe, Basic Applique: 1930s Quilt Patterns Created With Traditional And Contemporary Techniques showcases the fine art of applique from cutting to quilting. Featuring lovely patterns and easy-to-follow directions (illustrated with hundreds of photographs) for making sixteen beautiful quilts, even the most novice quilter will be able to create memorable quilts to grace any home. Basic Applique is a welcome and much appreciated contribution to the growing library of needlecraft references in general, and quilting manuals in particular.