May Reviews 2

Japanese Quilt Inspirations by Susan Briscoe

I love Japanese fabrics and designs so I was very excited when this book was added to the review pile.  Fortunately I was right to be so, this book is amazing! It is full of absolutely gorgeous Japanese fabrics and stunning photography really showcasing the quilts and other projects in the books.

There are 10 different quilt projects based on traditional Japanese sources and inspirations as well as other projects such as bags, cushions and a table runner to the rear of the book.  Each of the projects have detailed instructions as well as several colourful diagrams and useful tips scattered throughout.

There is an introduction to Japanese fabrics & motifs at the front of the book as well as a techniques guide at the rear of the book.  The quilts are designed to let the fabrics be the focus, using the easiest methods to create the maximum effect.  If like me you have a love of all things Japanese hurry and buy this book now!

This book is published by David & Charles and can be purchased on the RU Craft website here.

Get The Most From Your Clothes by Marion Elliot

This book is packed with upcycling tips to help you revamp your wardrobe, or turn charity shop treasures into trendy clothing.  Projects include turning an old cardigan into a bolero, turning a man’s jacket into a feminine woman’s jacket and oversized t-shirts into halter tops.

The book is split into 3 sections: Your Clothes, Your Accessories and Your Care and Repair.  Each section contains several projects with bright colourful photos, instructions, diagrams and useful tips as to other items you could make. 

I particularly liked the care and repair section, with ideas for jeans that are too tight, zips that have broken, and some great customisation ideas.  There’s also same great advice on what to look for in charity shops or jumble sales, and what to do with your finds.

This is a great book for any level of sewist, I think in these troubled economic times you can’t afford to be without it!

This book is published by David & Charles and can be purchased from the RU Craft website here.

Embroidery on Paper for Cardmakers by Annie & Nico Heesakkers

If you’ve ever fancied combining your love of stitching with paper crafts then this book would be ideal for you.  Intricate embroidery designs are used with stunning effect on these cards.  You puncture the template onto the card first and then follow the diagrams in the book for the stitching.

The projects in the book are split into 5 levels of difficulty so there is something for everyone, and you could work your way through in order and improve your skills as you go. 

Each project comes with instructions, a diagram and a list of what you need to make the project.  I do find the instructions to be a little brief, but for someone who has done this before it would probably be easier to follow.

You can look inside this book here.  

This book is published by Search Press and can be purchased on their site here.

The Quilter’s Bible by Linda Clements

This book is a big chunky guide to quilting packed full with information. It starts off with an introduction to the tools and equipment, a guide to selecting fabrics and working with colour. 

The rest of the book is split into 3 main sections – Patchwork, Quilting & appliqué.  In each of these sections the author covers various techniques, with step by step guides as well as colourful diagrams. 

It doesn’t just cover the basics but includes things like quilt art, fabric special effects and 3d appliqué encouraging you to be creative.  You will also find useful advice on how to choose which fabrics/designs etc to use.

The book also contains a few projects but it is more of a ‘how to book’ than a project book.  This book would encourage any quilter, learner or experience, to try new techniques and is a useful reference guide.

This book is published by David & Charles and can be purchased here.