I’ve been wanting to share some books, old and new, that I’ve enjoyed reading over the last couple of months. Each one of these books has been an inspiration and is a source of several projects on my list.
I’ll start with one I just received–Not Your Grandmother’s Quilt: An Applique Twist on Traditional Pieced Blocks
. This book is written by Sheri Howard, and Sheri was so wonderful as to give away several copies on her blog. I have to say I love every quilt in this book…simple piecing combined with delightful applique’ adds up to wonderful projects! Sheri also includes a beautiful quote (I love quotes!) and a recipe with each quilt. The book is filled with gorgeous photography which includes beautiful vintage accessories and settings as well…this book is a “must have” for quilters!
by Rashida Coleman-Hale. I’ve been enjoying Rashida’s blog, I heart linen, for quite some time now and absolutely love her book as well. She has a beautifully written introduction that I found to be very interesting, and she also has a wonderful technique section that is perfect for the beginning sewist. Rashida has a variety of wonderful projects, little bags, kitchen accessories, a delightful table runner, pincushion, coasters and placemat….and many more. I also loved learning about zakka, a word I didn’t know the meaning of before…another must have for anyone wanting to sew or quilt beautiful projects for their home.
is another wonderful resource. Joel and his wife Laurie have a fun blog as well…with free project instructions and even a yummy cookie recipe. Sewn Spaces also has an incredible section at the beginning showing step-by-step instructions on a variety of stitches and techniques. The book is full of patterns for clothing, home decor, and quilted and stitched projects. Joel describes his style as “eclectic modern,” and every design and fabric truly fills this fun description. Again…several projects in this book that I want to make!
by Jo Packham is a 2006 publication that I’ve been trying to check out from my library for quite awhile. It turned out that every copy in our library district is missing, which is too bad, because this is a great book. Another of my favorite organizing books by Jo is Where Women Create: Inspiring Work Spaces of Extraordinary Women
. Of course I read the quilting section first from Organizing Your Craft Space, but every section has great ideas for crafters and sewists of all types. Every photograph contains a world of inspiration…another must have!
by Kay Whitt. After making one of Kay’s patterns (on my blog here) I was really looking forward to this book. Again, this book is user friendly, well-written, and has full-size patterns included. Patterns include several variations for several skirts, tunics, dresses, and jackets. I love how Kay incorporates “quilting fabric” into her clothing designs…and her directions are clear and precise enough for even a beginner garment sewist.
Stephanie says
Love a good book review. Nice addition to your personal library. I love Katie Jump Rope. I have a UFO that's been nagging me…can't decide on border or not.
Erin says
Thanks for the reviews! Your Katie Jump Rope fabric is gorgeous! Are there patterns in the 'Not your grandmothers quilt' which would be suitable for people who are more 'begginers' to applique?
Jackie says
Great book reviews! Some wonderful picks. I had looked at the Organizing Your Craft Space book and loved browsing through it. Saw it at the local Barnes and Noble. I think I must get this one first.
Nell says
Oh Dear!!! Just when I had promised to abstain from online book buying!?!?
Thimbleanna says
That's a good lookin' pile of books Sherri! Perfect for sitting on the porch and planning some summer sewing!
Lori Holt says
Hi Sherri…I'm wondering if you will share where you got the Katie jump Rope with me?
Red Geranium Cottage says
Love the books Sherri. I have that Grandmother's one on my website. It's a great one isn't it?
Love Katie Jump Rope too. I've got my stash hidden in the sewing room. Love that fabric. Glad you found some too.
Béa says
Thanks for the book review.
I'm still waiting my border's fabric for this month Schnibbles : I received only one on two ordered charm packs and had to reorder fabric for border… 🙁 I posted photo of the center made, hope I receive before the parade !
Quilthaze says
Thanks for the book reviews Sherri! Although I have a huge stack of books I'm often tempted to buy more so some of yours will go on my wish list!
Terriaw says
Great selection of summer reads! I especially appreciate seeing a preview of Organizing Your Craft Space, which looks very inspiring. I love your favorite too. That is the best kind of book, one where you want to make everything in it!
Cindy says
Thank you for sharing these books, Sherri. I LOVE magazines and books – especially when hubby and I are traveling in the RV and we have a big trip within a week's time. I might take a look for these when I'm out later today.
I appreciate the time you took to share the titles. I've written them down to see if I find any.
Sheri Howard says
Thanks for writting such nice words about my book! I know what you mean about the Sewn Spaces…love that one!
Gwendie says
I just checked and my library has Jo Packham's book – so of course I reserved it!!! Thanks for the reviews.
krisgray says
Thank you for the reviews – they are very helpful!
Denise in PA says
They look like great books – thanks for the reviews! My June Schnibble is made and posted! State Fair was fun to make!
traceyjay says
those books look great! 🙂
and you're welcome.
And you can spill the beans now, because I went and ordered mine…(got the last FQ bundle listed!) 🙂
BeautifulSeams says
Love the info on the books thanks…
Elizabeth (blue clear sky) says
Great book reviews! I'm a new follower. I have enjoyed reading many of your previous posts.
lissa says
Oh such great choices! Thanks for sharing the picks.
-modalissa
Brenda says
Looks like some great books, I made note of several of them.
Micki says
I will get Not Your Grandmother's Quilt…It looks great!
Micki
Jackie says
How do I join the Schnibbles Club. It looks so fun I did finally get the pattern for state fair but it was too late. Please contact me, Thank you Jackie
jaybird says
thanks for your reviews!! i don't have any of those books.. but i always like to add to my quilt library!