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The Improv Handbook for Modern Quilters: A Guide to Creating, Quilting & Living Courageously
An exciting new approach for beginning to advanced quilters who want to improvise on their own, with a friend, or with a community of fellow makers.
Forget step-by-step instructions and copycat designs. In The Improv Handbook for Modern Quilters, Sherri Lynn Wood presents a flexible approach to quilting that breaks free of old paradigms. Instead of traditional instructions, she presents 10 frameworks (or scores) that create a guiding, but not limiting, structure. To help quilters gain confidence, Wood also offers detailed lessons for stitching techniques key to improvisation, design and spontaneity exercises, and lessons on color. Every quilt made from one of Wood’s scores will have common threads, but each one will look different because it reflects the maker’s unique interpretation. Featured throughout the book are Wood’s own quilts and a gallery of contributor works chosen from among the hundreds submitted when she invited volunteers to test her scores during the making of this groundbreaking work.
Forget step-by-step instructions and copycat designs. In The Improv Handbook for Modern Quilters, Sherri Lynn Wood presents a flexible approach to quilting that breaks free of old paradigms. Instead of traditional instructions, she presents 10 frameworks (or scores) that create a guiding, but not limiting, structure. To help quilters gain confidence, Wood also offers detailed lessons for stitching techniques key to improvisation, design and spontaneity exercises, and lessons on color. Every quilt made from one of Wood’s scores will have common threads, but each one will look different because it reflects the maker’s unique interpretation. Featured throughout the book are Wood’s own quilts and a gallery of contributor works chosen from among the hundreds submitted when she invited volunteers to test her scores during the making of this groundbreaking work.
394 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 17, 2015
163 people are currently reading
158 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
December 10, 2022
Dec 2022 I get this book periodically from the library. I was lonesome for it and it's endless ideas for improv. I just enjoy the freedom to make anything I want and am grateful I read this at the beginning of my quilting journey. I HAVE learned to square up my blocks and sew a 1/4 inch seam, but I do it because in some instances I WANT TO, but I know in the back of my mind I don't HAVE TO. My husband says that in 45 years of marriage NOTHING has changed me so much as becoming a quilter. He says I'm a different person!
2015
I am having a BLAST doing some of the "scores" in this book!
I made 2 projects. I'll try to put a picture of the quilt top I just finished with my profile picture. This quilt is named "Concepts". I'm waiting for batting to come in the mail, and almost have the backing ready to go.
This book took me on such an adventure- it has freed up my brain in many areas. I see so many possibilities.
I will work on more of the projects later. Right now i am worn out!
Second Reading
2017, September. I've made 4 more improvisational quilts after the Concepts one mentioned above. Concepts won a first place ribbon at the Circleville Pumpkin Show in 2015. Another titled "Fall" won Second Place. I used one of the "Limits for Patchwork" to make "Color Theory" using color # 1, it's compliment, and an analogous color of color #1 in each section. Another quilt "Cabin Cats and Hogs" used the "limit" of making a quilt with just the fabrics someone chooses for you. My granddaughters picked flannel fabrics and I used them to make the back and front of a throw.
2015
I am having a BLAST doing some of the "scores" in this book!
I made 2 projects. I'll try to put a picture of the quilt top I just finished with my profile picture. This quilt is named "Concepts". I'm waiting for batting to come in the mail, and almost have the backing ready to go.
This book took me on such an adventure- it has freed up my brain in many areas. I see so many possibilities.
I will work on more of the projects later. Right now i am worn out!
Second Reading
2017, September. I've made 4 more improvisational quilts after the Concepts one mentioned above. Concepts won a first place ribbon at the Circleville Pumpkin Show in 2015. Another titled "Fall" won Second Place. I used one of the "Limits for Patchwork" to make "Color Theory" using color # 1, it's compliment, and an analogous color of color #1 in each section. Another quilt "Cabin Cats and Hogs" used the "limit" of making a quilt with just the fabrics someone chooses for you. My granddaughters picked flannel fabrics and I used them to make the back and front of a throw.
December 18, 2018
wonderful! I used some tips and skills and made a nice fun quilt in a weekend. Clever tricks for the non-measurers among us.
March 20, 2019
A revalation and totally inspiring. I may just pluck up the courage to follow through ( :) ) after reading this one.
Highly recommended
Highly recommended
December 31, 2015
My opinion changed as I progressed.
At first I wasn't thrilled with the assumption that I didn't do improv because I was afraid of failure and that I needed meditations to decrease anxiety. I am not afraid of failure and I try many new things. I am not convinced that I need to abandon use of rulers entirely. I did not like the first several "scores" (what Wood offers instead of patterns). But I usually finish a book I start, and as I began to like the samples better Wood also decreased the assumption of fear. So by the end, I enjoyed the book.
In the ten "scores" and the color chapter there are an interesting variety of approaches to improv piecing. I'd say I started out with about two or three of her tactics in my repertoire. It was good to have options expanded. Her explanations were mostly clear (and I reasoned, on those few times when I didn't understand, So what? it is improv.)
A valuable section is her tools section where Wood explains techniques unique to improv: how to solve problems and inconsistencies that occur because of the free style cutting and stitching, like bumps and bubbles and how to match up irregular seams other than straightening them.
A valuable book for quilters who want to improv in more ways than random bits of fabric and wonky log cabin.
ETA: On second reading I was less hindered by the meditation sections. Because there was so much that I had forgotten from my first reading, I decided I needed this book in my library instead of giving it a single reading. I bought it and highly recommend it.
At first I wasn't thrilled with the assumption that I didn't do improv because I was afraid of failure and that I needed meditations to decrease anxiety. I am not afraid of failure and I try many new things. I am not convinced that I need to abandon use of rulers entirely. I did not like the first several "scores" (what Wood offers instead of patterns). But I usually finish a book I start, and as I began to like the samples better Wood also decreased the assumption of fear. So by the end, I enjoyed the book.
In the ten "scores" and the color chapter there are an interesting variety of approaches to improv piecing. I'd say I started out with about two or three of her tactics in my repertoire. It was good to have options expanded. Her explanations were mostly clear (and I reasoned, on those few times when I didn't understand, So what? it is improv.)
A valuable section is her tools section where Wood explains techniques unique to improv: how to solve problems and inconsistencies that occur because of the free style cutting and stitching, like bumps and bubbles and how to match up irregular seams other than straightening them.
A valuable book for quilters who want to improv in more ways than random bits of fabric and wonky log cabin.
ETA: On second reading I was less hindered by the meditation sections. Because there was so much that I had forgotten from my first reading, I decided I needed this book in my library instead of giving it a single reading. I bought it and highly recommend it.
October 13, 2021
I taught myself to quilt in the 70s using embroidered jeans that were falling apart. I had templates for traditional quilts but my favorite was an applique quilt I made for my then 3 year old daughter (who still has it at 45) because precision is not my forte.
Fast forward many years and many new creative pursuits and I'm again pulled toward hand sewn work but still not to precision and ran across this book in IG's CreativeBooktober challenge - share your creative books 2021. Along with too many others for a library that is supposed to be shrinking, not expanding. I digress.
If you need permission (and I had no idea I needed it but perhaps I did) to go at piece work without templates and tape measure this is the book for you. It clearly details the how-to of improvisation no matter how you define that (and I'm thinking it's pretty eclectic given the 10 definitions shared from workshops).
I believe even and maybe especially beginners will benefit from this book as well as those who (maybe always but that's me) yearn to throw off the restricting traces of how things must be done to gallop off into any possibilities that present themselve. and it's a lovely book to dream with even if you don't have any current plans to do piecing/quiltwork.
Fast forward many years and many new creative pursuits and I'm again pulled toward hand sewn work but still not to precision and ran across this book in IG's CreativeBooktober challenge - share your creative books 2021. Along with too many others for a library that is supposed to be shrinking, not expanding. I digress.
If you need permission (and I had no idea I needed it but perhaps I did) to go at piece work without templates and tape measure this is the book for you. It clearly details the how-to of improvisation no matter how you define that (and I'm thinking it's pretty eclectic given the 10 definitions shared from workshops).
I believe even and maybe especially beginners will benefit from this book as well as those who (maybe always but that's me) yearn to throw off the restricting traces of how things must be done to gallop off into any possibilities that present themselve. and it's a lovely book to dream with even if you don't have any current plans to do piecing/quiltwork.
May 7, 2017
I love to look at improv quilts - I love their energy and exuberance; I love the personal, folk art nature of their construction - and so borrowed this from the library months ago thinking it would help me develop the improv impulse. But I found it a bit difficult to understand - it just wasn't clicking for me.
Then I had an opportunity to take one of Sherri Lynn's workshops and suddenly, everything started coming together. I am so excited to have this in my home, at the ready, so that I can leap in with the scores and develop an improv practice. There's a lot to love here - Sherri's got a very positive, encouraging writing style. Those looking for step-by-step instructions (as I was, initially) won't find them here: improv really is about listening to what's happening in your gut and allowing that to guide your decisions about what to cut, where to cut and how to piece it all back together.
This is a great companion piece for her workshops. Have fun with it!
Then I had an opportunity to take one of Sherri Lynn's workshops and suddenly, everything started coming together. I am so excited to have this in my home, at the ready, so that I can leap in with the scores and develop an improv practice. There's a lot to love here - Sherri's got a very positive, encouraging writing style. Those looking for step-by-step instructions (as I was, initially) won't find them here: improv really is about listening to what's happening in your gut and allowing that to guide your decisions about what to cut, where to cut and how to piece it all back together.
This is a great companion piece for her workshops. Have fun with it!
November 20, 2020
I got some ideas from this but mostly it helped me decide that this detailed improv is not what I'm interested in doing - which is a good thing. Techniques for curved piecing and joining sections that are different sizes - that kind of thing is helpful and 'assignments' with photos the various outcome of the students was interesting. Overall, it motivated me to get to work....hands-on experimenting to find out more about what interests me. This quote is exactly what I took from the book.
"You are actually the most important aspect of improvisation. You have to show up. You have to be present. You have to know your likes and dislikes. You have to be responsive to your choices. You have to feel your emotions. You have to be whole to yourself in a non-judgmental and accepting way. Nothing more and nothing less will make your quilts sing."
"You are actually the most important aspect of improvisation. You have to show up. You have to be present. You have to know your likes and dislikes. You have to be responsive to your choices. You have to feel your emotions. You have to be whole to yourself in a non-judgmental and accepting way. Nothing more and nothing less will make your quilts sing."
August 18, 2015
Fantastic book. I've purchased my own copy and can't wait to try these quilts. The quilts in here are stunning and make me want to try improv quilting.
September 19, 2024
I may like the idea of improv more than the typical result of improvised quilts, but the reality is that I follow patterns etc. and quilting "rules" only about half of the time. Sherri Lynn Wood has "scores" or outlines for making quilts that set some parameters then leave quilters free to decide what looks good or feels right to them as they go along. The first score, "Floating Squares," made much more sense to me after I sat in on a webinar led by Wood for QuiltFolk (she also has a website full of ideas and at least one free video there).
The things she shares with improv music and comedy, both of which I have seen up close, are the ideas of "yes and" and "what if," along for seeing where one is surprised and satisfied during the process and what is learned. Woods is a dynamic and positive workshop leader, and the book helps capture her process well, once you have seen her in action.
The things she shares with improv music and comedy, both of which I have seen up close, are the ideas of "yes and" and "what if," along for seeing where one is surprised and satisfied during the process and what is learned. Woods is a dynamic and positive workshop leader, and the book helps capture her process well, once you have seen her in action.
May 14, 2022
I loved this book. I had just recently taken Sherri Lynn’s 4 classes on creative bug and I still wanted more so I ordered the book. It is as inspiring as her classes and I have already gone back and reread a few areas. I started experimenting right away and feel like I’ve fallen down a rabbit hole. And I was even doing something similar with hand stitching but this still feels like all new ideas to me. I’ll definitely be playing with my fabric and referencing this book for new ideas for quite awhile to come!
February 25, 2024
Sherri Lynn Wood's approach to quilting tempts me to abandon my OCD ways of straight lines and square corners. I love the way the quilts pictured in this book look; I'm not sure I'll be able to put my ruler away and follow her example. Wood offers advice in choosing fabric, colors, threads--everything you need to know to begin. I enjoyed Wood's reflections on and comparisons to other quilters, such as the women of Gee's Bend. Whether or not I follow through, I had a wonderful time reading and thinking about this book.
October 28, 2024
This is a great book for a beginner trying to dip their toes into improv without the stress and paralysis that comes with absolute freedom. She creates "scores" that set loose constraints to help narrow the infinite possibilities, and also gives the flexibility to adapt to your desires and workflow. Each score also includes examples from test quilters, so you can see a breadth of styles and interpretations as you read. She has some great sections on piecing techniques. This book is playful, positive, and informative.
August 14, 2023
Much better than I thought it would be!
This was pleasantly interesting and I got some ideas for my next project. I didn't expect to really get much but love the different approaches that are shared in improve quilting. I never judge a book by it's cover or title for you never know what you'll learn! I highly recommend this book and would say that it's better than many as it allows you to create!
This was pleasantly interesting and I got some ideas for my next project. I didn't expect to really get much but love the different approaches that are shared in improve quilting. I never judge a book by it's cover or title for you never know what you'll learn! I highly recommend this book and would say that it's better than many as it allows you to create!
September 25, 2020
The book is nicely done but not so the quilts which are a bit too random, too unconsidered for my taste. Some of the author's designs make sense and the curves are often quite beautiful. The idea is to cut with scissors and free yourself from constraints which isn't a bad idea if only my hands and mind were able :-)
December 22, 2020
For me, the most valuable are the 20 or so pages at the back, which show you how to make fabric behave when it’s been assembled without straight lines or a matching seams. I like the general approach to improv, grounded in other disciplines and the “scores” included, even if the actual quilts are rarely what I would choose.
March 27, 2025
Has good potential
I've only done a quick overview (i.e., I looked at all the pictures), but I can probably embrace some of the designer's concepts at least in part.
I'll go back through to find where my own uprightness can converge with the designer's apparent lack of restraint, and maybe I can do something... interesting quiltwise.
I've only done a quick overview (i.e., I looked at all the pictures), but I can probably embrace some of the designer's concepts at least in part.
I'll go back through to find where my own uprightness can converge with the designer's apparent lack of restraint, and maybe I can do something... interesting quiltwise.
March 9, 2018
All about process, which I love. I try not to acquire craft books I don’t absolutely need, but this one is definitely on my “to own” list.
August 13, 2018
Filled with techniques, not only for sewing but also for freeing up the creative mind. Refreshing, well written, great photos and instructions.
September 3, 2018
Learned more about creating quilts! Very interesting.
January 30, 2020
Lots of fun, and I appreciated her helps for being scared to break the quilting rules. I've started one project already!
March 8, 2021
One of the most thoughtful, insightful and inclusive art books alive ever read. Highly recommend.
April 5, 2021
Need this in my personal library.
May 10, 2021
Terrific design concepts. I want to drop everything and get started!
December 21, 2021
I’m still not sure if full on, ruler free quilting is something I want to do, but this gives a lot of food for thought and strategies.
May 23, 2022
Right up my alley!
July 12, 2022
Loved this book. Wonderful, original ideas! Fresh.
February 3, 2023
One of my favourite quilt books. I have used it many times, and love the approach which blends well for my type of sewing.
December 12, 2024
Pivotal in my creative practice.
July 8, 2025
I've checked this out from the library so many times now I really should just buy a copy. Very inspiring and informative 10/10
January 5, 2017
More about process than patterns -- really refreshing approach.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews