Shadow Quilts: Easy-To-Design Multiple Image Quilts

I ordered this book because I'm interested in learning to create the illusion of transparency in my own quilts. I found it an excellent resource for this process and would highly recommend it for anyone else who is interested in achieving this type of process in their work.

It is no surprise to discover that Patricia is a methodical, organized designer while Donna is a "what if" sort of person. They have blended these two approaches perfectly in Shadow Quilts. The concept is that you begin with a traditional block and layer it over a shadow version of itself (or even another block). The shadow is formed by making the block appear in the background in a different fabric. The first half of the book is devoted to exploring the possibilities and explaining the concept so that you can go out and create your own Shadow Quilt. The second half contains 9 projects so you can have your hand held until you are ready to fly on your own. Their writing style is entertaining and easy to read. There are numerous sections with detailed instructions for techniques such as adding a sleeve or hand painting your fabric. If you are looking for a way to be more inventive and want a little guidance, this is a good place to start.

Maxiner and Slusser lead the quilting world in structure and color with this new book. The quilts in the full-color photographs are stunning. The author/quilters have once again shown their artistic abilities. Quilting is an American tradition, but the authors have moved this tradition to a higher level in their choice of color placement and geometric patterns. In this book, they show that quilting is no longer just a process of using what is left to create a practical item. We can no longer envision quilters hand-sewing squares of scraps together to create a necessity. The authors of this book use up-to-date methods and tools. They have created beautiful works of art that are methodically thought out and carefully pieced and, as are traditional quilts, sure to become heirlooms. A beautiful book!