The Essential Quilter: Tradition, Techniques, Design, Patterns and Projects

by Barbara Chainey

Presents the history and tradition of quilting, together with design sources and ideas, and plenty of detailed practical instruction on equipment and techniques. This edition also contains project work and a range of motifs for readers to trace and use for themselves.

Genres: Quilting

144 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 1993

Reviews

[Maxine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very useful. It made me think that quilting was an accessible art. The motifs included in the book were sized large enough to make templates with.

[Jean Carlton · Rating 4 out of 5]

At last I finished this book! It sat ignored while I had assigned reading and frankly, it's not the kind of book you'd call a page turner. What it IS, is a very thorough and well written reference book on hand quilting. Starting with the history of this type of needlework it includes helpful information not only in the actually 'doing' but also about making decisions about the design of the stitching that you choose. I like that the author emphasizes that one should trust their own taste and NOT try to be perfect. Our taste preferences and our skill evolves over time. She includes a section on quilt care and the recommendation to label all of your quilts; the ones you make as well as any in your collection. Directions for a few small projects are also included.
I have a number of books about quilting and this is one I will go back to as I need more detailed help for such things as the method for drawing your own feather designs to fit your project. (Stencils are available but often are not the size you may need so confidence and tips for designing your own are very empowering)