Super Simple Quilts #4 with Alex Anderson & Liz Aneloski: 9 Applique Projects to Sew with or Without a Machine
The volumes in Alex Anderson's new quilting book series, published by C&T; Publishing, a major publisher of quilt and craft magazines, are colorful, easy to use and not overwhelming. Each book is 28 pages long with a total of nine projects or three patterns in three sizes featuring three colorful fabrics. They are geared to meet the needs of the beginning quilter or a more advanced quilter looking for super-quick projects. In book four of the Super Simple Quilts series, the authors present nine appliqué projects to sew with or without a machine. They begin with an overview of basic equipment and techniques with step-by-step visual and written directions for proper rotary cutter use. This alone may save a beginner from blood and tears and maybe even stitches. Rotary cutters can be dangerous. A Peek Inside Super Simple Quilts In keeping with C&T; Publishing's devotion to clean, uncluttered, easy to read page layouts peppered with visual aids, this book proceeds with clear steps for fusing, layering the quilt, appliqué and quilt in one step using the machine appliqué method. It then continues on into the big-stitch hand appliqué and quilting method, followed with a series of photos demonstrating proper knot tying. A discussion concerning binding methods could be helpful to quilters in all stages of their craft. The patterns use various geometric shapes including the circle, which is often a daunting shape to incorporate into a quilt. Great Gift for Beginning Quilters If looking for a gift or guidance for a beginning quilter young or old, this book may meet the need. At less than $10, it fits most any quilter's budget. This book would not fit the needs of experienced quilters intending to increase their abilities or those in search of new and demanding patterns. The book adheres to the premise in the title - super simple - almost to the point of primitive.  --Dawn Goldsmith, Suite 101, 10/2/09