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Material Obsession: Contemporary Quilt Designs
Kathy Doughty and Sarah Fielke, owners of the popular quilting shop Material Obsession in Sydney, Australia, bring an unconventional spirit to a traditional craft. They encourage quilters to use bold patterns and unusual color combinations, and to trust their instincts rather than follow rigid rules.re at it.
206 pages, Paperback
First published June 16, 2008
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February 7, 2018Material Obsession is one of the first books written by Kathy Doughty. This one is co-authored by Sarah Fielke and has a foreword by Kaffe Fassett. Great credentials!
The cover quilt is a good start to the book as it is VERY appealing. It is hard not to like with the dotted background and Dresden blocks.
Kaffe Fassett's foreword is very complimentary as it would be. It acknowledges the "much less-than-inspiring work that take up wall space in shops and exhibitions" (pg.6). I find it refreshing that he acknowledges that not all quilts are stellar (though, FYI, I do believe all quilts are worth making). He compares the high quality of the work shown at the shop to other work he sees in work of "teaching, lecturing and judging" (pg.6). Whether true or not, I tend to believe Kaffe Fassett's assessment of the shop and work there.
Essentially, this is a project book. Twenty-three project on offer (pg.14-168) followed by Quilting Basics (pg.174-196), a glossary (pg.200) - Yay!, an index (pg.202), sources for supplies (pg.203), about the authors (pg.204) and acknowledgements (pg.206). From the amount of pages, you can see that this is a substantial work.
Another premise of my quiltmaking comes in the Introduction (pg.10-12). Material Obsession came to be as a reflection of our times. Our quilts reflect a lifestyle that is moving quickly and changing every day. Quilts were once a part of a slower-moving era, one of frugal use of leftovers and recycled fabrics"... "Quilters today are free to indulge in a huge range of color, shape, and texture"... "And they quilt for love, for enjoyment, and creativity rather than for necessity" (pg.10). this information reflects the changes in quiltmaking. Most of us do not quilt because we need to keep our families and friends warm. I appreciate the acknowledgement of that fact.
The Introduction segues smoothly from the changes in quiltmaking to the Material Obsession way of making a quilt. In this part of the introduction the authors suggest choosing and inspiration fabric (pg.11), a fabric that sings to you. I have always heard of this fabric called a feature fabric or focal fabric, though they do not use those terms in this book.
Doughty and Fielke write words that are critical to me when I am teaching "If the fabrics look good to you, if you like them, then you have the beginnings of success" (pg.11).
The rest of the intro talks about using fabric and color, what makes a pattern, contrast (pg.11), how to vet a pile of fabrics, using digital images (pg.12)and inspiration. Once thing that stands out in this commentary is the time taken to select the fabrics. I am guilty of grabbing fabrics just so I can get to the piecing. The time taken to carefully select fabrics is described by the authors as valuable because it makes a better quilt. The Introduction is helpful, inspirational and upbeat.
After the brief Introduction, the projects start. The first several quilts are not difficult at all - basically squares and triangles (Avalon-pg.16, Gypsy Squares-pg.20, Candy Store-pg.24, Corner Store-pg.30, Cowboy Baby-pg.38, goodnight Sweet prints-pg.44).
Each pattern has a designation from easy to advanced. These designations make it easy for a beginner to work through the projects in order and improve skills. Complexity in the easy patterns comes from the careful use of fabric. This is a great technique for making simple quilts look complication.
Patterns repeatedly suggest using 100% cotton (example pg.53) and testing for colors that might run (example pg44).
the first intermediate pattern is called Snuggling Letters (pg.56-61). It includes a Peaky and Spike unit. The pattern includes templates for that unit, but also recommends purchasing a special ruler. The units seem to be 3.5", which means you also might be able to use the Accuquilt die for easier cutting, though that is not mentioned. Sizzix has similar die. Check unit sizes in the patterns before purchasing.
The first picture in each pattern, in all of the patterns is a lifestyle shot, which doesn't show much of the quilt. Each quilt is shown in a straight on format photo towards the end of each pattern.
The advanced quilts are truly advanced as opposed to fake advanced. Girlfriends Galore (pg.104-111) includes a Lone Star with multiple on point borders. the biast is enough for me to toss it intot he advanced pile.
Probably my favorite quilt project is the cover quilt, Dotty for Dresden (pg.120-128). The dots that stand out in this quilt are immediately appealing. I also like the larger than normal center circles. The selection of fabrics does not scream an era - the fabrics are clearly contemporary, but also timeless, in a way.
The patterns do fall into the trap of giving cutting directions based on the fabric (example pg.122) rather than using the location (e.g. background) of the pieces. This can be confusing for makers who aren't using the same fabric.
I also like the uniqueness of the Three-Ring Circus hexagon quilt (pg.128-133). I definitely like the colors of the The Big Pineapple (pg.134-139), but I also like that it is actually the classic Pineapple pattern.
Each pattern has a short essay on the inspiration behind each quilt (example, pg.140), though these sections are too short to be very satisfying to me.
The patterns are not boring and I was pleased to see a Nosegay pattern included (pg.162-167). The use of fabrics is also not boring. Excellent use of stripes, and dots and large prints can be found throughout the book.
I wish they had more examples of different uses of fabric, different examples of different colorways. I'd like to see which of these designs work with a two color quilt color selection.
As is usual with many quilt books, this one has a section on quilting basics. This section is a little more robust than others I have seen. Parts of a quilt (pg.176) are described as are different types of batting (pg.176). Points are illustrated by referring back to quilt patterns.
I don't remember seeing fabric grain discussed in other books, but Doughty and Fielke write about it in some detail on page 177. Preparing fabric such as the benefits of prewashing and running colors merit a sidebar (pg.177). A section on choosing thread, equipment and rotary cutter safety (pg.178-179) are well written. After a part on accessories, which includes template plastic, pins and scissors (pg.180), the authors write about cutting fabric and measuring (pg.182-183). Rotary cutting shapes is also covered (pg. 183-187). Because of all of the applique, cutting shapes by hand and fussy cutting are thoroughly discussed as well (pg.188). Various applique methods are explained alongside piecing (pg.189-190). Laying out a quilt in a straight set and on point precede adding borders (pg.191). The book does not include the technique of measuring the quilt three times and averaging to get the size of the borders. Look that up elsewhere. Layering and basting are covered and illustrated with quilts using bright colors (pg.192-193). Quilting is covered in two pages (pg.194-195), which I always find amazing, and binding is covered in one. The binding information comes with useful illustrations (pg.196-197).
My librarian heart is warmed when looking at the glossary (pg.200-201). It is excellent! Terms such as 'ease', 'chain piecing' and 'weft' are included. The authors get additional bonus points for including an index (pg.202-203). The source of supplies (pg.203) is a good place to start, though the list may become dated and won't include newer, more up to date tools and supplies.
I love the bios (pg.204-205). they give me insight into the authors.
I also love Abrams books. They are large, lush and gorgeous. This book is no exception. I love the colors, the many photos and all of the different fabrics shown. the drawings give the overall book a friendly feel. The combination of hand and machine techniques offer options for all different types and skill levels of makers.
The cover quilt is a good start to the book as it is VERY appealing. It is hard not to like with the dotted background and Dresden blocks.
Kaffe Fassett's foreword is very complimentary as it would be. It acknowledges the "much less-than-inspiring work that take up wall space in shops and exhibitions" (pg.6). I find it refreshing that he acknowledges that not all quilts are stellar (though, FYI, I do believe all quilts are worth making). He compares the high quality of the work shown at the shop to other work he sees in work of "teaching, lecturing and judging" (pg.6). Whether true or not, I tend to believe Kaffe Fassett's assessment of the shop and work there.
Essentially, this is a project book. Twenty-three project on offer (pg.14-168) followed by Quilting Basics (pg.174-196), a glossary (pg.200) - Yay!, an index (pg.202), sources for supplies (pg.203), about the authors (pg.204) and acknowledgements (pg.206). From the amount of pages, you can see that this is a substantial work.
Another premise of my quiltmaking comes in the Introduction (pg.10-12). Material Obsession came to be as a reflection of our times. Our quilts reflect a lifestyle that is moving quickly and changing every day. Quilts were once a part of a slower-moving era, one of frugal use of leftovers and recycled fabrics"... "Quilters today are free to indulge in a huge range of color, shape, and texture"... "And they quilt for love, for enjoyment, and creativity rather than for necessity" (pg.10). this information reflects the changes in quiltmaking. Most of us do not quilt because we need to keep our families and friends warm. I appreciate the acknowledgement of that fact.
The Introduction segues smoothly from the changes in quiltmaking to the Material Obsession way of making a quilt. In this part of the introduction the authors suggest choosing and inspiration fabric (pg.11), a fabric that sings to you. I have always heard of this fabric called a feature fabric or focal fabric, though they do not use those terms in this book.
Doughty and Fielke write words that are critical to me when I am teaching "If the fabrics look good to you, if you like them, then you have the beginnings of success" (pg.11).
The rest of the intro talks about using fabric and color, what makes a pattern, contrast (pg.11), how to vet a pile of fabrics, using digital images (pg.12)and inspiration. Once thing that stands out in this commentary is the time taken to select the fabrics. I am guilty of grabbing fabrics just so I can get to the piecing. The time taken to carefully select fabrics is described by the authors as valuable because it makes a better quilt. The Introduction is helpful, inspirational and upbeat.
After the brief Introduction, the projects start. The first several quilts are not difficult at all - basically squares and triangles (Avalon-pg.16, Gypsy Squares-pg.20, Candy Store-pg.24, Corner Store-pg.30, Cowboy Baby-pg.38, goodnight Sweet prints-pg.44).
Each pattern has a designation from easy to advanced. These designations make it easy for a beginner to work through the projects in order and improve skills. Complexity in the easy patterns comes from the careful use of fabric. This is a great technique for making simple quilts look complication.
Patterns repeatedly suggest using 100% cotton (example pg.53) and testing for colors that might run (example pg44).
the first intermediate pattern is called Snuggling Letters (pg.56-61). It includes a Peaky and Spike unit. The pattern includes templates for that unit, but also recommends purchasing a special ruler. The units seem to be 3.5", which means you also might be able to use the Accuquilt die for easier cutting, though that is not mentioned. Sizzix has similar die. Check unit sizes in the patterns before purchasing.
The first picture in each pattern, in all of the patterns is a lifestyle shot, which doesn't show much of the quilt. Each quilt is shown in a straight on format photo towards the end of each pattern.
The advanced quilts are truly advanced as opposed to fake advanced. Girlfriends Galore (pg.104-111) includes a Lone Star with multiple on point borders. the biast is enough for me to toss it intot he advanced pile.
Probably my favorite quilt project is the cover quilt, Dotty for Dresden (pg.120-128). The dots that stand out in this quilt are immediately appealing. I also like the larger than normal center circles. The selection of fabrics does not scream an era - the fabrics are clearly contemporary, but also timeless, in a way.
The patterns do fall into the trap of giving cutting directions based on the fabric (example pg.122) rather than using the location (e.g. background) of the pieces. This can be confusing for makers who aren't using the same fabric.
I also like the uniqueness of the Three-Ring Circus hexagon quilt (pg.128-133). I definitely like the colors of the The Big Pineapple (pg.134-139), but I also like that it is actually the classic Pineapple pattern.
Each pattern has a short essay on the inspiration behind each quilt (example, pg.140), though these sections are too short to be very satisfying to me.
The patterns are not boring and I was pleased to see a Nosegay pattern included (pg.162-167). The use of fabrics is also not boring. Excellent use of stripes, and dots and large prints can be found throughout the book.
I wish they had more examples of different uses of fabric, different examples of different colorways. I'd like to see which of these designs work with a two color quilt color selection.
As is usual with many quilt books, this one has a section on quilting basics. This section is a little more robust than others I have seen. Parts of a quilt (pg.176) are described as are different types of batting (pg.176). Points are illustrated by referring back to quilt patterns.
I don't remember seeing fabric grain discussed in other books, but Doughty and Fielke write about it in some detail on page 177. Preparing fabric such as the benefits of prewashing and running colors merit a sidebar (pg.177). A section on choosing thread, equipment and rotary cutter safety (pg.178-179) are well written. After a part on accessories, which includes template plastic, pins and scissors (pg.180), the authors write about cutting fabric and measuring (pg.182-183). Rotary cutting shapes is also covered (pg. 183-187). Because of all of the applique, cutting shapes by hand and fussy cutting are thoroughly discussed as well (pg.188). Various applique methods are explained alongside piecing (pg.189-190). Laying out a quilt in a straight set and on point precede adding borders (pg.191). The book does not include the technique of measuring the quilt three times and averaging to get the size of the borders. Look that up elsewhere. Layering and basting are covered and illustrated with quilts using bright colors (pg.192-193). Quilting is covered in two pages (pg.194-195), which I always find amazing, and binding is covered in one. The binding information comes with useful illustrations (pg.196-197).
My librarian heart is warmed when looking at the glossary (pg.200-201). It is excellent! Terms such as 'ease', 'chain piecing' and 'weft' are included. The authors get additional bonus points for including an index (pg.202-203). The source of supplies (pg.203) is a good place to start, though the list may become dated and won't include newer, more up to date tools and supplies.
I love the bios (pg.204-205). they give me insight into the authors.
I also love Abrams books. They are large, lush and gorgeous. This book is no exception. I love the colors, the many photos and all of the different fabrics shown. the drawings give the overall book a friendly feel. The combination of hand and machine techniques offer options for all different types and skill levels of makers.
June 7, 2022
Lovely textiles and narratives but the designs are too busy for me. I find that often with Australian quilts - not enough white space for my eye to rest and see the piecing. IMHO of course...
September 22, 2025
I have spent the better part of a year reading more about modern quilting, in particular the use of solids, the judicious use of prints, the improvisation going from riffing on traditional quilts to going completely off the grid.
This is not that. This is traditional quilting that is firmly in that style.
The quilt patterns are well done, detailed, and the examples are done with printed fabrics almost exclusively, if you ignore that the backgrounds are often solids.
That said, there was one quilt that I liked quite a lot, an applique quilt with birds called Out The Window that I might make one day--I am best described as a modern traditional quilter, and it struck my fancy.
This is not that. This is traditional quilting that is firmly in that style.
The quilt patterns are well done, detailed, and the examples are done with printed fabrics almost exclusively, if you ignore that the backgrounds are often solids.
That said, there was one quilt that I liked quite a lot, an applique quilt with birds called Out The Window that I might make one day--I am best described as a modern traditional quilter, and it struck my fancy.
June 3, 2017
The author really knows her colors and patterns when it comes to quilting. Enjoyed so many of them.
July 24, 2017
Enjoy looking at the photos and imagining how I would use these ideas to make my quilts.
August 2, 2010
What I really liked about this book is the authors' approach to quilts, and that there isn't a right or a wrong. They have really great ideas, and my favorite 2 patterns are very, very simple, but I love they way they just let the fabric speak for itself. As someone who has favorites I can't bear to cut up, they seem to get it, and say, well, then, showcase it!
My biggest complaint is that you had to go through several pages of instruction to get a full-on look at the completed quilt. When I am browsing, I want to see right away what the completed quilt looks like, not just a corner of it folder over a ladder in an attractive style. But at least the photos of the complete quilts are there.
I found almost all the quilts to be too reliant on applique for my personal tastes. They were pretty to look at it, but reality is, I'm not going to do much, if any, applique. But I liked looking.
My biggest complaint is that you had to go through several pages of instruction to get a full-on look at the completed quilt. When I am browsing, I want to see right away what the completed quilt looks like, not just a corner of it folder over a ladder in an attractive style. But at least the photos of the complete quilts are there.
I found almost all the quilts to be too reliant on applique for my personal tastes. They were pretty to look at it, but reality is, I'm not going to do much, if any, applique. But I liked looking.
August 12, 2009
I didn't necessarily find a quilt pattern in this book that I loved, and I didn't love all the combinations of quilts, but I love the author's philosophy on fabric-—that you choose something you love and you create a masterpiece that reflects you and your life, not be bound by rules about what types of fabric should be used.
I read the author's blog, and I enjoy looking at her quilts and the quilts of those who come to her shop. She has a passion for what she does, and her quilts reflect that. Her taste is not my taste, but her vision has given me a different idea of what my taste can include.
I read the author's blog, and I enjoy looking at her quilts and the quilts of those who come to her shop. She has a passion for what she does, and her quilts reflect that. Her taste is not my taste, but her vision has given me a different idea of what my taste can include.
January 15, 2015
Wow, this book is chock-full of patterns. The authors focus on fabric choices more than the actual designs, so if you enjoy making unconventional fabric choices, check this book out. I personally love the fact that almost every quilt in the book is hand quilted! You just don't see that a lot, and they explain exactly how they did the quilting, including how they marked their quilting pattern and what thread they chose. Even though I won't be making any of the projects in this book, I am surely inspired.
September 25, 2009
I rarely find quilt books like this that have both the combination of exciting colors/fabrics and contemporary twists to quilt patterns. This one combines traditional ideas with new/fun ideas. I have found several quilts to make here, including the one I never made my daughter.
Material Obsession
Material Obsession
February 20, 2015
Lovely use of fabric combinations in large settings. I love the cover most, with the use of opposite fabrics: white dots on red fabric, and red dots on white fabric. The back of the quilt in an unrelated floral pattern. Love it. Great ideas. The designs are not printed with computers, but drawn and colored with pencil. Love it. So personal. So human.
August 13, 2009
The quilts in here were a little too busy and a little too traditional for my own taste. I'm a Denyse Schmidt girl. I did like the Prints Charming fabric quilts and I did like a few of the patterns (The 'Burbs, Fanciful Flowers) but I'm not sure I like them enough to make them myself.
April 1, 2010
This is by far the most inspiring quilt book I have ever seen! Love love love every quilt in it! I like how they give detailed instructions on how to make each quilt and how they categorize the projects from easy to advanced.
April 3, 2010
I'm trying to find a new hobby, knitting, embroidery, etc...but after reading thru this book I think I am definitely going to try quilting, the quilts are absolutely BEAUTIFUL in this book. I want to make one SO bad! I really think I might try one of the easier ones, we'll see how it goes...
April 29, 2010
This book is a pleasure to peruse, if only for the pictures. I will certainly be basing some new quilt patterns of my own on one or two of the designs in this book. Does a good job of combining traditional and modern quilts into one book.
September 3, 2012
This is truly an inspirational book for quilters. I loved how the focus was on how to build a quilt from the fabrics based on its patterns and colours. The quilts are modern yet traditional.
Projects I loved: Rocket Man, Summer Sunshine, and Liberty Fields.
Projects I loved: Rocket Man, Summer Sunshine, and Liberty Fields.
November 5, 2008
This books has some gorgeous, modern quilt idea's in it. They rate from Easy to Advanced. Can't wait to make one!
April 11, 2009
so much inspiration and such very little time...
June 6, 2009
Mostly just patterns for fairly easy pieced quilts -- not what I was looking for.
September 25, 2009
I don't buy many quilt books, but this one by two Australian quilt designers is a feast for the eyes. It has 23 projects and a good quilting basics section at the end.
October 9, 2009
A favorite quilt book. Currently working on the cover quilt for our #3. A friend is doing the hard stuff while I am just piecing it together. Super exciting!
November 12, 2009
This is a book of traditional quilt patterns with a modern twist. Great color pictures.
November 20, 2009
Would love to buy this book at some point--the quilt patterns are lovely.
December 23, 2009
Several very cute quilt ideas!
March 18, 2010
Just love everything about this book. I have the same style as the authors as far as quilts go. Would love to own a copy.
July 15, 2010
Loads of sweet patterns. If I were actually quilting, I think I'd love this. Since I am not, it mostly reminded me of how much I need to learn before I can attempt any kind of quilt whatsoever.
November 16, 2011
I adore this book and cannot wait to improve my sewing skills enough to be able to make these quilts. They are stunning!
May 23, 2012
a few designs caught my eye (especially the cover photo quilt, which i'd made a variation of before), but nothing spectacular. a few good quilting tips and technique suggestions.
October 1, 2013
Kaffe Fassett foreword really came across as snooty. Some of the stuff is too dated for me, lots of flowery embroidery. I did enjoy the bold use of color and patterns, good inspiration!
April 29, 2014
A fun book for fiber/textile artists and crafters.
November 22, 2014
I love this book. I am now making the pattern Gingersnaps in blues. Lots of compliments so far.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews