Quiltmaking by Hand: Simple Stitches, Exquisite Quilts

I couldn't believe my eyes when I first saw this book title. I hadn't been able to find much about hand piecing and, though I was very interested in piecing my quilt tops by hand (for all the reasons the author goes into in this book!), I lacked confidence and know-how. No more. There is nothing I need to know about hand piecing and quilting that is not in this book. Concepts and techniques of fabric choice, pattern drafting, all kinds of piecing, adding borders, preparing the quilt for quilting (including mounting on a frame or in a hoop), hand quilting, and binding the finished quilt are all given in exquisite detail. There are numerous extremely helpful photos showing each step of the techniques, as well as painstakingly written and very understandable text directions. In the chapter on pattern drafting, not only is there detailed direction on using graph paper and drafting tools, but also covered is using a computer drawing program to create grids and to draft and design blocks. (The author uses a program called Canvas and the detailed instructions are geared to this program, but the basic ideas are very adaptable to different software.) If there is one aspect of this book that does not work for me, it's the chapter on using border prints within the quilt. I'm sure there are many, many quilters out there who would greatly appreciate the very detailed (and ingenious) directions on using specially printed border fabrics in multiple ways within the quilt, including mirror imaging and creating new shapes from border designs. It's not to my taste, but it is in line with the extremely high quality of the rest of the book. The author seemed pretty opinionated about a lot of aspects of the design, construction and finishing process; however, I feel equipped, after reading this book, to try doing things different ways until I find the way that works for me. Finally, the many references and sidebars about antique quilts and needlework greatly enriched the book, giving it a historical background that I found very inspiring. My next project will be hand pieced!

I hand piece and hand quilt virtually everything---I'm a luddlite, I guess, and when I first began to quilt I quickly realized that I detest sewing machines----what's the point of production sewing, exactly? This is a lovely book, with lots of great advice and terrific photos. However, I think that for one-piece patterns (such as hexagons or diamonds) there can be a better way than templates---check out shapes of the template stamps sold by Stamps By Kate on her website. I have just finished quilting my 2nd queen-sized field of diamonds and am wrapping up the piecing of a seven sisters using the stamps---and, yes, I stitch even the sashing and borders by hand....so this book together with Kate's product simplify and complement.I adore the forgiveness quality of handwork, as well as the serenity and relaxation of the process. I think that Jinny's techniques are esay to follow and certainly she is an inspiration. This is a great gift, too; it's relaxing just to read it!

For years I have been tempted to make a quilt by hand--I usually sew by machine. An ad for this book made me more determined and I immediately ordered a copy before I changed my mind. I couldn't believe the detail--literally hundreds of photos of hand movements that make each step so easy. For the first time, I've been able to make an eight pointed star without cutting off the corners. As well as hand-piecing, there is tons of information on coordinating colors, drafting designs, figuring borders--all great stuff for machine quilters, too. This is the best book I have bought for myself in years. I also picked up the tool that goes with the book--Jinny Beyer Perfect Piecer--very handy, especially for making more stars!

I am truly inspired by this book. I made my first couple of quilts by hand, but I didn't feel that I was a "real" quilter until I had bought the sewing machine. All the books and magazines seemed to be completely geared up to machime piecing and so I felt that hand piecing was seen as quaint and outdated. So it was a revalation to find out that Jinny Beyer, a reknown quilter and teacher whose quilts I had always admired, made them ALL by hand! Her explanation of how quilts can be advanced piece by piece in "found" moments has made me think that perhaps handpiecing is THE way to quilt for busy women today. Her directions and detailed photographs make it easy for anyone who has never picked up needle and thread and her enthusiasm, on every page of the book, will build your confidence. Also, the photographs of her lovely silver needlework accessories and the insets about quilting history add to the inspiration.If you think you haven't got time to hand piece, read this and think again.