The Quilter's Book Of Design

by Ann Johnston

This innovative book is for quilters who are tired of traditional quilting patterns and want quilts that are uniquely their own. By explaining the principles of good design in terms that are easy for novices to understand and with appealing examples, The Quilter's Book of Design takes the mystery out of the design process and seeks to overcome quilters' "creative block." Ann Johnston explains the thinking behind quilt designs, describing the "tools" designers can use to create different visual effects--line, shape, value, color, pattern, and texture. She next offers different approaches or starting points to begin the creative process, including working with geometric shapes, cutting fabric freehand, drawing from photographs, seeking inspiration in ancient designs, and many more. The book is richly illustrated throughout with quilts that range from the very simple to the extraordinary, as well as photographs of quilts at different stages of completion. - More than 100 color photographs of finished quilts, quilts in process, and fabrics - Clear, easy-to-read explanations of design concepts, with examples quilters can easily relate to.

Genres: Quilting, Nonfiction

160 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1999

Reviews

[Claire · Rating 5 out of 5]

So many quilt design books slight either quilting by being generic about design or design by being too brief. This book has neither fault.

The initial discussions of design elements and principles are detailed and illustrated with quilts and fabric design. The application sections include helps to analyze the design in quilt photos and one'd own quilts. Then there is a sequence where the author describes her design decisions--it reads like a quilt meeting presentation. And there are starter ideas to prompt the reader to get going on quilt design.