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Book Reviews for Quilters and Stitchers

April 28, 2014 By A Spoonful of Sugar - 1 Comment

Quilting the complete guide

Quilting – The Complete Guide by Darlene Zimmerman is a handy resource for quilters. Whether you are new to quilting or an experienced quilter, this guide contains everything you need to know to get you started. It is the type of book that you would be reaching for again and again to check techniques and formulas. Most other quilting books do not have this level of detail as they are focussing on projects. This book does not include any quilting projects, it is simply a resource guide.

One of the features we love about the book, is that it includes handy hints and formulas such as standard quilt sizes, formulas for cutting shapes, formulas for backings, and how to calculate the amount of yardage you will need for the binding.  It is so much quicker to check the book that trying to calculate it all yourself.

Darlene Zimmerman explains all the equipment/tools/supplies you need for quilting. All the processes involved in making a quilt from accurate cutting, through to techniques to finish a quilt are clearly explained. There are lots of clear photographs that lead you through the process. It also contains practical tips like how to make a hanging sleeve for quilt and how to wash quilts.

Quilting – The Complete Guide is a great guide on quilting techniques and would be especially useful for anyone new to quilting. It is available from Can Do Books and Booktopia. 

Book Details:

Format:    Paperback, 256 pages

ISBN:        9781440238871

RRP:         $29.99

 

x-stitch

X-Stitch:Cross-stitch projects to make statement by Sarah Fordham takes a fresh modern approach to the traditional craft of cross stitch. It includes 20 fun projects that incorporate elements of cross stitch. Projects are graded by difficulty. Very easy projects for cross stitch beginners include: buttons, badge, and needle case. Easy projects include: gadget case, coasters, eye mask, and pop art canvas. Trickier projects include: watch strap, customized shoes, tote bag, and headscarf. Whether you are new to cross stitch or an experienced stitcher, there is bound to be some projects that appeal.

Sarah Fordham explains all the techniques needed to get you started, including how to design your own cross stitch charts. There are lots of charts in the book including: tattoos, borders, home sweet home, alphabets, pop art, nature and more. You can customise the projects in the book with your own designs or choose charts from the book to suit. The cross stitch designs are quirky and fun and will appeal to both female and male stitcher’s.

X-Stitch is a bright and funky craft book that is perfect for introducing traditional techniques to a younger demographic.

Book Details:

Publisher:    Guild of Master Craftsman Publications Ltd

Format:        Paperback, 156 pages

ISBN:           9781861089069

RRP:             $24.99

X-Stitch: Cross stitch projects to make statement by Sarah Fordham is available from Booktopia and Can Do Books. 

 

Disclaimer: Please note that we are not paid to write book reviews but we do receive a review copy of the book from publishers/distributors. All opinions are our own.

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: book review

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Comments

  1. Kay says

    April 29, 2014 at 8:20 pm

    It looks like I need to add another quilting book to my wish list. x

    Reply

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We offer over 100 affordable PDF sewing patterns available for download from our store website or Etsy store. Each pattern includes detailed instructions, numerous photos, and templates.

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The Bitsy Basket is one of my favourite tiny makes The Bitsy Basket is one of my favourite tiny makes — quick to sew, scrap‑friendly, and endlessly useful. This one is stitched in the upcoming Tilda Village Life collection, and I love how the prints shine when you rotate the basket and see all six sides.It features a neat little tag, a matching cord cover, and a tidy cord lock that helps the basket cinch closed beautifully. Perfect for storing small notions, gifting treats, or adding a sweet handmade touch to your sewing space.Comment BASKET and I’ll send you the pattern link.
The Bitsy Basket PDF is available in my Pattern Store and Etsy Shop.Fabric Credit: Tilda Village Life with thanks to @tilda_australia#bitsybasket #scrapfriendlysewing #tildavillagelife #gifttosew #sewingreels
If you’re ready for some cosy Halloween sewing, th If you’re ready for some cosy Halloween sewing, this guide is packed with quick projects, scrappy makes, and festive ideas.Comment HALLOWEEN and I’ll send you the link to the  blog article with all 18 projects + tips for choosing fabrics and colours.Save this for when you need Halloween Sewing inspiration.#halloweensewing
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A clever little kit that goes wherever you do ✨ Th A clever little kit that goes wherever you do ✨
This Travel Sewing Kit opens flat so everything is easy to see, then folds into a neat triangle that slips into your tote or project bag.It’s quick to sew, scrap‑friendly, and one of those makes you end up using all the time — travel days, retreats, hand‑sewing projects, or those “quick fix” moments on the go.Comment TRAVEL and I’ll send you the pattern link.Pattern: Travel Sewing Kit — available in our Pattern Store and Etsy Shop.#travelsewing #sewingkit #scrapfriendlysewing #sewingpattern #aspoonfulofsugardesigns
Tiny Tote Trio ✨ Three bright, modern Tiny Totes Tiny Tote Trio ✨Three bright, modern Tiny Totes in Ruby Star Society prints — each with sweet linings, neat zipper tabs, and that satisfying open‑and‑close moment. Quick to sew, scrap‑friendly, and perfect for organising sewing tools, travel bits, or gifting.Comment TINY for the pattern link.Pattern Details: Tiny Tote Sewing Pattern - available in my Pattern Store and Etsy Shop.#tinytote #sewingpattern #pouchpattern #handmadegifts #scrapfriendlysewing
Sweet + Spooky Mini Treat Pouch 🎃 Turning Hallowee Sweet + Spooky Mini Treat Pouch 🎃
Turning Halloween scraps into something cute and useful — this Mini Treat Pouch is a quick, beginner‑friendly project that’s perfect for gifting tiny treats, party favours, or adding a handmade touch to spooky season. No zips, no fuss… just a clever button‑and‑elastic closure and a chance to use your favourite Halloween fabrics.Comment TREAT for the pattern link.Pattern Details: Mini Treat Pouch Sewing Pattern - available in my Pattern Store and Etsy Shop#minitreatpouch #halloweensewing #scrapfriendlysewing
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Scrappy Mini Stocking 🎄 These sweet little stocki Scrappy Mini Stocking 🎄
These sweet little stockings are one of my favourite quick Christmas makes — just the right size for lip balm, chocolates, sewing notions, or tiny treats. They’re beginner‑friendly, scrap‑happy, and perfect for festive table settings, teacher gifts, or adding a handmade touch to your holiday decorating.I used the Tilda Merry Little Christmas fabric for a nostalgic, Scandi‑inspired vibe — such a joy to sew with.Fabric credit: Tilda Merry Little Christmas, with thanks to @tilda_australia ✨💬 Comment STOCKING and I’ll send you the pattern link.Pattern Details: Scrappy Mini Stocking Pattern - available in my Pattern Store and Etsy Shop.Let’s make this season handmade and heartfelt 💕#scrappysewing #ministocking #christmassewing #handmadeholiday #scrapfriendlysewing  
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