I’ve got another couple of books to review for you all today, one purchased already and one from the library again. Such a fabulous way to try before you buy.
First up we have Modern Quilts from the Blogging Universe. A selection of quilts from various famous quilt bloggers, most of which I already knew through Instagram. I was really excited to get this book, but after flicking through it I was like, meh. Honestly I was a bit disappointed.
It felt like it was all something I’d seen before (in the case of Quilt Dad, it was as he used the same design in his Beyond Neutral book too!). Some of the patterns were just too super simple – I don’t need to buy a book for instructions on how to make a chevron quilt. Case in point is this one…
It’s a lovely fresh modern design, but do you really need a pattern to work this out? Well, some might, but I certainly don’t.
Two patterns that did catch my eye were these by Jessica Kovach and Lee Heinrich
I find, as in the case of Vintage Quilt Revival, I am drawn to a super simple design with lots of negative space. Especially great for showing off some special free motion quilting.
Another feature which I enjoyed from this book was the blogger bio’s that they included. It’s always nice to get to know the person behind the pattern.
As to whether I’d buy it? Definitely not I’m afraid. Although it would be good for someone looking for inspiration or maybe specific patterns, I find more inspiration than I can handle elsewhere, and I will never run out of quilts on my wish list.
Next up we have Quilting Wide Open Spaces by the talented Judi Madsen. I was lucky enough to get an autographed copy at the Australian Machine Quilting Festival a couple of weeks ago. They sold like hot cakes, thanks to Julie for snagging me one!
I expected a book about free motion and custom quilting, which is Judi’s specialty.
I didn’t expect to get lovely fresh quilt patterns to go with those new skills.
The book includes a CD with templates to use for some very special motif’s included in Judi’s custom quilting plan.
This quilt is just the cutest!! I love the dragonfly and butterfly. I was really disappointed that I didn’t get to attend any of Judi’s classes, although the book is almost as good. I didn’t realise how thoroughly she marks up and prepares her quilt tops before quilting. It makes this beginner feel that there is hope for me yet, that I’m not expected to freehand everything.
Obviously the question of would I buy it is moot, however her reputation is good enough that I bought this, via Julie, sight unseen. I certainly don’t regret it, I can see how her instruction will help me take my quilting to the next level.
So, there’s the verdict. One no, one yes. Do you have either of these books? Or would you buy them? Let us know in the comments, I love to hear from you!
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Jess @ Scrappy n Happy
I have Judi’s book too and absolutely love it! I haven’t seen the other one.
Cassandra
It’s worth checking if your local library has it, or can get access to it through the library network.
Fiona
Thanks for reviewing these Cass!
Cassandra
Always a pleasure!