Relax and Quilt (For the love of quilting)

I loved this book! Not only are there clear instructions on several quilt patterns, I just love the anecdotes included on each page. There were testimonials and poetic lines and just great thought provoking thoughts included. I recommend this kind of book to anyone looking for a smile.

Oxmoor Publishing and Leisure Arts present a collection of projects with the same great appeal quilters loved in their earlier publication, "Quick and Easy Scrap Quilts". This new title includes 21 quilts and a table runner plus embellishment for a shirt and note cards. It is geared to tops that can be completed in a relatively short time working individually or with friends wanting to participate in a fabric exchange or a quilting retreat. As the editor says, projects geared to helping you relax and quilt.Both applique and piecing projects include a variety of styles--traditional, country/homespun, contemporary, and whimsical-appropriate to the skill level of beginners and more experienced sewers. For example, pieced quilts feature homespun plaid log cabin blocks, traditional patterns like Rail Fence, Birds in the Air and Sister's Choice along with Depression era baskets and a contemporary, colourwash Courthouse Steps. For those wanting more of a challenge, there is a lovely traditional Tree of Life quilt that includes suggested quilting designs.Those who like applique may use traditional methods or try any of the soft-edge, fusible web or freezer paper techniques that may appeal to beginners or those in a hurry. A colorful double four-patch top has a folk art border of soft edge applique held down by a utility stitch of floss or pearl cotton. Note cards and garments are embellished using fusible web. A 1920s era Day Lily quilt is finished using a hand or machine buttonhole stitch. For traditionalists there is a stunning red and green hand appliqued Princess Feather top that also includes a suggested hand quilting design pattern.The last 21 pages give helpful information on fabric preparation, cutting and sewing techniques, quilt construction, binding and quilting, hanging sleeves, and care and cleaning.