What I’m reading: Hand quilted with love

I’ve been working on a couple of patchwork projects lately. As well as a Union Jack cot quilt, I’m also making some patchwork doll quilts for my daughter. I was really keen to get my hands on hand quilted with love by Sarah Fielke. The book is subtitled patchwork projects inspired by a passion for quilting and it’s a beautiful book.

I think of myself as a pretty competent maker of patchwork, I’m not so confident at quilting. In Hand Quilted with Love Sarah Fielke encourages and inspires you to step outside of your comfort zone!

The book includes 16 new quilt designs and the author shares her knowledge and tips in a way which really encourages you to have the confidence to try something new. The book is beautifully photographed and the quilts are truly stunning. I’m a little in awe of them but as well as instructions for each quilt, the book is packed with information and techniques which will help you choose your fabrics and equipment, as well as learn the techniques which will help you see each project through to quilting and binding.

This is contemporary quilting as its best which is reflected in bold patterns, fabric choices and quirky names, from The bass line to Sash that Stash, Lady Marmalade and Paint by numbers. My favourite has to be bangles as it features my favourite shape, the hexagon. The overall effect is lovely and as the author notes, “reminded me of those stacks of brightly colored bracelets that I had  as a little girl in the 1980s.”

As well as the 16 projects, the book contains sections on choosing fabrics, the quilter’s workspace, tools and equipment, techniques and templates. A beautiful craft book for beginner or advanced quilter, modern or traditionalist!

Hand Quilted with Love by Sarah Fielke is published by CICO Books at £19.99 and is available from all good bookshops or call 01256 302699.