Compendium of Quilting Techniques: 400 tips, techniques and trade secrets for making quilts

May 09

An invaluable guide to all aspects of quilt making, from choosing the basic equipment to entering a competitive quilt show. There is an equal emphasis on hand and machine stitching, patchwork and quilting. It is set out well, with numbered panels and colourful diagrams and photos. The comprehensive patchwork techniques teach how to work logically and avoid mistakes, from easy triangles to curved stitching, applique and much more. The pages on hand quilting are a good example of the style. They cover the technique, the correct needles and thread and the pros and cons of using a hoop, a frame (with measurements to make one) and lap quilting. I cannot possible cover the wide range of subjects in this book. I recommend it strongly to all quilters, new and experienced, as my choice this month.

Mar 09

An indispensable compendium of technical know-how and troubleshooting tips. If you're one of the many machine knitters who also enjoy quilting, this is a 'must have' book. It includes tips and techniques you need to make special quilting projects as well as trade secrets. Step-by-step diagrams and instructions guide you through every stage of making a quilt, whether you are new to the craft or an improver. All the most popular techniques are explained in detail, with a host of troubleshooting ideas which show how to put them into practice.

Summer 09

Contains step-by-step instructions on all types of quilting. Beginning with the tools and equipment you need, choosing your fabrics and designing your quilt and other items. A range of patchwork 'tips' and 'fix it' advice on all techniques, various styles of design including American, English, Siminole, Sashiko, Trapunto and many, many more. There are sections on choosing your wadding and finishing your work. Information on the care, the cleaning and storage of your quilt. Also advice on showing your work and organising an exhibition. This is an interesting and informative book and should encourage all quilters, whether you are new or an established quilter. Norma Arthur, St Stephen-in-Brannel

Aug 09

This super compendium will prove a useful reference title to keep on the shelf as it contains some 400 tips, techniques and trade secrets for all styles of patchwork and quilting. Aimed at stitchers of all levels of expertise - it covers every aspect of quilting and is arranged by topic making it a really easy guide to use. Beautifully illustrated throughout with colourful photos and clear diagrams, each section includes techniques, new ideas and troubleshooting 'fixes' for when things don't quite go to plan. New quilters will find useful information on the essential equipment to get started plus ideas for selecting fabrics, planning a design, accurate cutting and stitching methods. Those with more experience will enjoy the multitude of advanced techniques for freehand curves, mitred seams and interesting weaves along with ideas for adding a 'wow' factor and tips for entering competitive shows. Embellishment and finishing techniques are not forgotten either with beautiful ideas for all styles of quilt including Sashiko, Trapunto, cording and applique.

Susan Briscoe is a textile designer, author and teacher, specializing in sashiko and Japanese textile design. After graduating in visual art and design, Susan worked as an English teacher in Japan, where she also studied the tea ceremony, traditional textiles, and kimono design and tailoring. Susan has created design kits for Japanese patchwork fabrics, published textile projects in books and magazines, and demonstrates her work at quilt and textile shows.