Quilts from Paradise (That Patchwork Place)
American quiltmaker Cynthia Tomaszewski resides in Michigan, but owns property in Fiji, where she plans to retire one day--her idea of paradise. In keeping with this vision, her latest book is filled with 14 projects that feature bold tropical colours. Two are bags, and the remainder quilts, most suitable for hanging on the walls rather than draping across beds. Most feature applique, so in addition to the standard quiltmaking basics section that is included in most Martingale quilt books, Quilts from Paradise also has a chapter on needleturn applique using freezer paper, Cynthia's preferred method. Many of the projects are also embellished with embroidery and/or beading, and there are some guidelines to help with these techniques too.Our favourite project is entitled Falling Water. It's a 49 x 61inch wallhanging made from a large-scale blue green jungle print supported by a selection of other blue and green prints. What makes it particularly eye-catching, however, is the addition of buttons, shells, crystals and shiny disks attached to lengths of a sheer blue/green ribbons that hang from the top edge of the quilt. Whilst it's unlikely that readers would be able to find the precise fabrics that Cynthia used in her quilt to replicate it exactly, it's nevertheless a project that is likely to stimulate quiltmakers to think outside the square about their work and experiment with embellishments of their own. --Australian Homespun Magazine blogCynthia Tomaszewski has unveiled her latest designs from her new bookQuilts from Paradise. Anyone who loves the beach will love this book! Her sense of color and the distinctive appliques speak to her own sense of style. I love her quirky flower designs that are showcased so beautifully. Another quilt has a desert feel. The sand and terra cotta colors are the perfect backdrop for her appliques. Many more of her quilts are just charming. Who can resist a blue and rose quilt--it's the perfect project to showcase your batiks. --Checker Newsletter--Resource for Independent Quilt, Sewing, and Needlearts Retailers