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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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🌟 Sew Your Own Retro Drawstring Bags 🌟Look 🌟 Sew Your Own Retro Drawstring Bags 🌟Looking for a cute and practical way to store small essentials? These Retro Drawstring Bags are the perfect mix of fun and function.🌟 beginner friendly design
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🌟 use as gift bags, travel pouches,, everyday storage🎁 Want to make your own? Check out the FREE Tutorial on the blog. Comment RETRO and I'll send you a link.#sewinglove #fabricstash #handmadegifts #drawstringbag #sewingtutorial #scrapbusting #DIYsewing #sewsewsew
🌟 Unlock Fabric Mastery! 🌟 Comment FABRIC be 🌟 Unlock Fabric Mastery! 🌟 Comment FABRIC below for a FREE eBook- Fabric Mastery : Unlock the secrets of Fabric Selection. Get expert tips to help you choose the perfect fabrics for any project.🎨 Now, let's talk Colour Fusion - the secret to smooth, blended transitions in quilting! Ombre effects and graduated hues create depth, movement, and effortless harmony. My Fusion Cat Coasters are the perfect example! Swipe for examples to see how colour fusion brings designs to life.💡 Quick Tips:
🌈 Stick to complementary hues for best blends
🌈 Use fabric gradients or hand-dye techniques
🌈 Mix bold and soft tones for stunning contrastWant to try it? Fusion Cat Coaster Pattern is available in our Pattern Store and Etsy Shop. (Link in our profile).Which colours would you love to fuse together? Drop your favourites below.#quiltinglove #fabricmagic #ombrequilting #colourfusion #quiltingcommunity #handmade #fusioncatcoaster
Pincushion Magic 🌟Transform your sewing space Pincushion Magic 🌟Transform your sewing space with these adorable pincushions. Whether you love epp, fpp, florals, patchwork, applique - there is something for everyone!Which one is your favourite? Tell me in the comments.Want to learn more about pins? Comment PINS  and get a link to my article - Pin Perfection and learn all you need to know about these handy sewing box staples.#sewinglove #pincushionmagic #sewingpins #diysewing #craftingfun
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🌟 Twisted Square Quilt Block in 5 Sizes 🌟P 🌟 Twisted Square Quilt Block in 5 Sizes 🌟Put a fresh spin on the classic Economy Block with the Twisted Square Quilt Block. I used solid fabrics in this duo which makes the angles pop. My goal this year is to use more solid fabrics in my projects.Twisted Square is perfect to incorporate in quilts, pillows, bags, and more!Twisted Square Quilt Block is available in our Pattern Store and Etsy Shop. Comment TWISTED and I'll send you a link.Let me know in the comments if you love solid fabrics. They are easy for beginner foundation paper piecers.#foundationpaperpiecing #fpp #quiltlove #iquilt #quiltblock #fabriclove #sewfun #economyblock
🐱 Introducing the Fusion Cat Coaster!🐱Cat 🐱 Introducing the Fusion Cat Coaster!🐱Cat lovers, this one's for you! The Fusion Cat Coaster is a beginner-friendly sewing project that blends style and function beautifully. Featuring five fabric stripes, it creates a stunning color fusion effect, making it perfect for using scraps.Why you'll love it:
✅ Quick and fun to sew—ideal for beginners
✅ Scrap-friendly—great for reducing fabric waste
✅ Solid fabrics, ombre, and gradient palettes shine in this design
✅ Perfect for cat lovers and handmade giftingOne of my goals this year was to incorporate more solid fabrics, and this pattern is perfect for experimenting with color fusion, ombre, or gradients. Whether you're making one for yourself or gifting it to a fellow cat enthusiast, this cute coaster adds a cozy, handmade touch to any space.Find the pattern in our Etsy shop and Pattern Store! Comment FUSION and I’ll send you the link.#Sewing #Handmade #DIYProjects #Quilting #ScrapFriendly #ColorFusion #FoundationPaperPiecing #SewingForBeginners #CatLover #HandmadeHome #GiftIdeas #SewMuchFun #EtsySeller
🧵 Tip of the Day: Snip as You Sew! ✂️Want 🧵 Tip of the Day: Snip as You Sew! ✂️Want cleaner seams and a professional finish? A quick trim after each seam keeps your project looking polished and prevents messy threads from getting in the way!I always reach for my SOHMO thread snips—sharp, precise, and perfect for effortless trimming while I sew! 🪡✨💡 Try this simple habit and see the difference in your sewing projects!💬 Do you snip as you sew? Let’s me know in the comments! ⬇️Comment NEWSLETTER to get on the list and receive helpful tips straight to your inbox.#SewingTips #SewingTools #ThreadSnips #SewingHacks #Handmade #DIYProjects #SewingForBeginners #SewingLove #CraftingTime #SewingCommunity
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