Hitting Shelves....

It's amazing, I know, but Ty and I have begun a relationship.  For so long, I was just an admirer.  Watching from the comfort of my couch while he outfitted homes on trading spaces.  Since then, things have changed.  1st...my cable is gone, and so is trading spaces.  2nd...He now has his own show.  3rd...I have my own book, and 4th Ty and I now share something pure and strong...

the love of fabric.

Poor Ty, he has totally missed out on meeting me (and sharing a true connection with me), but we share some pages in the new April/May edition of Quilters Home.  This time, I actually have a quilt pattern featured.  Can you believe it?  I love the pattern, you will TOTALLY have to check it out.  It's called Tender Bloom's (pictured below in the middle).

But for now, head on out and pick up this months copy.  You won't be sorry...I mean who can resist TY,...oh and me too.

Book Reviews

One of the fun parts of being an author for Martingale, is that I get to review books for them.  Seeing new designs, new designers, and different ways of doing things is so fun.  Each quilter tends to have their own way of doing things.  We all have our own style and personality.  Some of us like bright and cheerful, some of us like things bold and daring, while others love the subdued and calm.  Whatever style we adopt, we can always appreciate the work that others do.

So...let's start the appreciation!

What a fun book!  You can find dresses, tops, accessories, home accents, and some great basic sewing instructions in this great new book.  This author did a great job showing how inventive one can be with thrift store finds.  My favorites are all the purses and accessories, she takes fun sweaters and turns them into some really fun things.  You should check it out!

4 Stars

Amy Ellis takes a totally unique look at quilting.  She teaches, you don't need a dedicated sewing space, you don't even need a stash of fabric, you just need some fabric and a sewing machine!  Her simple designs make it easy for any level of quilter, and each quilts design is new and fresh.  These quilts are modern but certainly have traditional roots.   I love the colors, the design, and the personality that shines through each quilt.

4 Stars

This book offers 9 different patterns for you to satisfy your country quilt whims.  Each quilt is easy to make, and great for your precut fabrics.  The quilts that feature applique have just enough applique to satisfy your urge to handstitch, but you won't be handstitching for the next 2  years just to finish!  (of course, you can always machine applique too).  If you are a country girl, you will love the quilts in this book!

5 Stars

When I received this book, I had no idea I would be reading about history as well as books.  I probably should have known, I mean look at the title.  This book is full of great information about the civil war and the role that quilts played in its history.  

4 stars

Jelly Rolls, here we come.  18 quilt designs beckon us to take the challenge, and make quilts using up our 2 1/2" strips.  The designs

lend themselves to any kind of jelly roll.  She has examples in brights, muted, pastels, etc.  But whatever colors you like, you will find a pattern to showcase what you love.

 4 stars

You may not know this, but I am a total sucker for wool.  I love it.  Absolutely adore it, so this book is a winner in my book.  This book is the pattern to 1 fabulous quilt, and a 8 smaller projects that use the appliques from the larger quilt.  This is the perfect book for someone who wants to  work with wool.  It is fun, beautiful, and endearing.

5 Stars