Tuesday, January 14, 2014

Quilt Improv Blog Hop & Giveaway!

This post is brought to you by my guest blogger + best friend + maid of honor + new Operations Manager for Jaybird Quilts, Rachael P. She has a couple previous guests posts for Jaybird Quilts from way back in 2010. Welcome back to the blog, RP! {I like her so much, I let her throw in a giveaway at the end. Keep reading!}

When Julie presented me with the opportunity to review this book, as soon as I laid my eyes on it I had to do it. At first look, it was so aesthetically interesting I wanted to know more. I am more of a wordsmith than a designer. I have immense respect for a designer’s talent and skill, they have a toolkit I did not come equipped with when it comes to colors, shapes, space and style. Luckily, I can appreciate the craft and artistry of design, and find the words to discuss that appreciation. And with that, we jumped on board the blog hop for Lucie Summers's new book, Quilt Improv

The cover of Quilt Improv by Lucie Summers

Here's a bit about Lucie and Quilt Improv from James Brooks of Stitch Craft Create: Lucie runs her own blog, Summersville, and has designed a range for Moda fabrics. Her book Quilt Improv is all about quick, modern quilts and block designs pieced in an improvisational style.

Here’s what drew me into Lucie’s book:
Great design elements: fonts, layout, photography & sketches 
Content: considerable range, eclectic designs, beginner friendly techniques, British English quilting terms (batting=wadding)
Flipping through Quilt Improv was like an English quilting vacation in book format. A cup of Earl Grey tea made the experience complete.

Chain Pieced Strips block from Quilt Improv

I find that there is a major differentiation between books like Julie’s Skip the Borders & Lucie’s Quilt Improv.
Skip the Borders = precision and step by step techniques from start to finish
Quilt Improv = beauty in irregularities and encouraging your personal creative process

Crazy Triangles block from Quilt Improv

The challenge and the beauty of improv quilting is you truly have to make your creations your own - from fabric selections, yardage, and placement. This is a practice in unleashing your creative energies when it comes to colors, shapes and sizes. Surrender to your fabric cutting, piecing and quilting muses.

The more I paged through Lucie’s book and learned about improv quilting, the more analogies to traditional vs improvisational quilting kept coming to me:
It’s like making a 90 degree turn off of the highway onto a twisty, windy country road. 
It’s like sewing & quilting cross training for your mind & machine.
Baking vs cooking.
Puzzle solving vs puzzle creating.
This is for the (quilting) rule breaker types (you know who you are! ;-).

Inspiration for the Railings Quilt in Quilt Improv

Railings Quilt from Quilt Improv

Quilt Improv is heavy on inspiration and technical guidance, yet it's light on the rules and exacting details. For example, you’ll find great clarity on how to design and piece your projects, but you won’t find much in the way of step by step by step measuring and cutting directions. You’re not going to find material lists or cutting requirements for each block or quilt because this is about the process, and creating something that is entirely your own. You will find excellent design and layout planning guidelines.

Skill level: adventurous beginner and confident intermediate quilters looking to stretch your design legs
P.S. Quilt Improv is a brilliant coffee table book for design junkies who appreciate the craft of quilting.

Check out Stitch Craft Create's blog if you'd like to learn more about the book Quilt Improv and see some of the other posts along the blog hop.

Now, for the give away! Stitch Craft Create is offering one lucky commenter drawn at random to receive a free copy of Lucie’s book, Quilt Improv.
Details on how to enter the giveaway are below.


THE RULES

1. Leave ONE comment to enter. Make sure your contact info is in your profile or that you leave it in the comment.
2. In your comment tell us, have you ever tried improv quilting? What draws you to it or away from it?
3. Comment entries must be left on this blog, www.jaybirdquilts.com, to be valid. Comments sent via E-mail, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or any other social media will not be counted.

4. Simple as that!!

--

You have until 9PM PST time Friday, January 17th to enter!
Winner will be selected by True Random Number Generator.


© Blog post written by Rachael Pannepacker
For more information visit http://www.jaybirdquilts.com/

213 comments:

1 – 200 of 213   Newer›   Newest»
Anya said...

Yes, I've tried improv quilting..I like the fact that there are no rules! Thanks for the chance!

Denise in PA said...

Yes, I have tried improv quilting. It is definitely out of my comfort zone, so I'd like to do some more! This book looks like a lot of fun!

Lisa England said...

I have done improv log cabin blocks. They are fun and fast and can use up a lot of leftovers. I would like to try something more adventurous like the ideas in this book. Thanks for the chance to win!

Lex said...

Lovely! I'm sort of ridgid when it comes to quilting and I worry too much. Patchwork- I end up obsessing that fabrics are too close to each other. I feel like maybe trying an improv quilt with scraps might be freeing

Anonymous said...

I haven't done a lot of improve quilting, but it is on my "to do" list. I bought this book for a gift exchange and had a chance to look through it. I would love to have a copy of my own.

Wendy said...

I'm a novice quilter so I haven't yet tried improv quilting, it is something I would love to try though.

p.s. Earl Grey is horrible, it smells of Dettol! I think Tetleys is more "English" than Earl Grey.

DianeY said...

IVe tried it for a few blocks, but it is definitely out of my comfort zone. Maybe this book could get me into sticking with it and actually creating a quilt!

Heather said...

I have tried improv, with mixed results. I got started but wasn't really sure where to go with it. I think the method I was trying was very successful for the quilter in the book, but just didn't jive with me. I'd love to try again though, this book looks like good inspiration.

Queenie Believe said...

I've done quite a few improve quilts, love it. I also like introducing a few improve elements with traditional blocked quilts too.
Have a great day.
Always, Queenie

Will Cook for Shoes said...

I have never tried improv quilting but I would LOVE to... BUT... I'm such an A-type personality that I know I would prefer to have instructions for improv quilting. Yes - for reals. LOL!!

tgallop@mts.net
www.willcookforshoes.ca

Unknown said...

I have tried Improv piecing and I am a huge fan of it. Thank you for the giveaway!!!

angelagreenwald98@gmail.com

Paula said...

I have done some improv and enjoy it. To sure it I my finest talent but I keep working on it. This book looks very interesting!

Laurie said...

I have not tried improve but LOVE the look! The cover of this book grabbed me right away! I might have to step out of my box!

Laurie G
soccerljg4@yahoo.com

Auraprez said...

I would like to try Improv quilting. I do alot of photography and think my photos converted to quilts as being Improv. Looking forward to trying it.

Barbara said...

I haven't tried improv quilting, but I'm really ready for something new and wild. This book looks like the inspiration I need!

thepiececorps said...

Not yet but I want to. The book looks amazing! TIA!B-)

carolann said...

Have not tried it yet, but excited to learn this technique! Great review. carolann427@aol.com

Deanna said...

I have not tried improv quilting, I'm a "follow-the-rules" kind of gal. I'm only brave when it comes to color and textures.

Unknown said...

I have not tried improv quilting, but wild love to. Thanks for offering this giveaway! Spetzie at att dot net

Wendy said...

This sounds like the perfect book for me...I am definitely a rule breaker and I have decided that 2014 is my year to feed my creative spirit. I've tried improv a couple of times...don't know how successful I was at it, but it has not dampened my spirit to try again! Thanks for the chance to win this book!

caribousmom (at) gmail (dot) com

Heather D. said...

I have tried improv quilting, mostly when it has been requested in bees, and I find it so hard. It does NOT come naturally to me at all. I am very much a rule follower in life in general so that probably explains it! I love how improv looks though and would like to get better at it. Thanks for the chance to win this book.

Just Sew Sue said...

I haven't tried improve exactly but I have done some wonky log cabins which I do enjoy but it is a challenge to channel my inner wonk when I'm so used to being precise.

Shelley said...

I have tried improv quilting, and for someone so used to following "the rules" and patterns, it causes some level of uneasiness. But I think it is like anything you try - you have to keep practicing in order to learn and grow. I had the opportunity to look through a friend's copy of this book recently and WOW, I was impressed with all the beautiful colors and Lucie's method. I'd love to have my very own copy :). Thanks!

Jacklynn Grimm said...

I have never tried improve quilting - I would like to see this book and read more about it. God knows I have enough scraps - it's the letting go part that I would need help with! Thanks for the give away! jacklynnsteven at netzero dot com

Nancy said...

I enjoy doing improv quilting. I go to this when I don't need to do a lot of paying attention to detail. It is craft therapy that works when I am in a fog!

Katie said...

Never tried an improv quilt but yours certainly look funky And beautiful!'m

Lynda said...

I am an organized, precise quilter and improve quilting scares the heck out of me - I love the look of it but fear that the process would be more than I could handle - it could be that a book like this would let me free the reins and jump into the improve pool.

Gill said...

I've never tried improv quilting but I'd love too!!!

Anonymous said...

I love improv because it is creative and most of all--fast.I find the introduction of some randomness into the process is what produces results that are unexpected and edgy.

M.W. said...

I have never tried improv quilting but it does interest me. I think it would be fun because you never feel like you've made a mistake.

Shawn

Robin said...

I've not tried Improv quilting yet, but hope to!

Anita said...

Lovely book! Yes, I have tried improv quilting, but I would like to improve my skills.

Jackie Russell said...

I'm a huge fan of quilting improv style. I love the freedom it gives you. I would love to win this book!

Unknown said...

I would love to read this beautiful book. I am always looking for inspiration.

kimberlier said...

I love the playfulness of improv quilting. Its perfect for a quilt for my two little ones. Thanks for showcasing this book and for the opportunity to win!

Juels said...

Some of it reminded me of how crazy quilt blocks are formed. I haven't tried improve quilting, but like to try expanding my quilting skills. Thanks!

Ginny said...

I would love to win a copy of this! I want to stretch and try prov! I typically am very structured. Thanks!

Rina Mason said...

I haven't tried it but it looks like it might be fun. Kind of reminds me of crazy quilts without the added embellishments.

dolores said...

Hahaha...I think improv/wonky is my middle name! I don't have many things that are straight and stuctured unless I'm English paper piecing!:)

CarolAnn said...

I have not tried Improv quilting, yet. It is on my list of things to do this year. Nice book! Another great one to add to anyones quilting library.

Janet M said...

When I first started quilting many years ago, I was much more creative and experimental. I didn't know the 'rules' so I made it up as I went along. These days I find myself much more reserved and concerned about doing things the 'proper' way. With all the great fabric choices we have today, I'd really like to get back to that place I used to be and see what I can come up with. I'd love to win that book!

Laura said...

I have tried improv quilting. It was tough to get my mind wrapped around the initial lack of structure, but it got easier as I went along. I definitely plan to do more improv in the near future.

LimeLover said...

Improv piecing gives me the chance to work without thinking!

MO said...

I am a intermediate quilter and just getting the hand on improv quilting..I think it is something I would definitely would love to do..thanks.

Kris said...

I have done a little improv and I want to do more.

sramosman said...

What a great book!

I have been sewing for a few years but only learnt how to make patchwork quilts/cushions last summer. I'm a bit obsessed with straight lines, maths and perfection and have never tried quilt improv. To be honest I have never thought of it! That's why I think I should totally give it a go, it would be a great way to learn that things can be "not perfect" and be pretty and also a good destash move.

Cindy said...

Yes, I have tried improv quilting! I like the idea of just being free to use what I want and where. I think it's fun and I would love doing more. I would love to win a copy- looks like great inspiration! Thanks!

Helen in the UK said...

I'd love to be in with a chance of winning a copy of this fab looking book. I've done a little string piecing before, but would like to push myself to try new things. I'm currently looking to give my quilts a fresher, more modern feel and Lucie's style would be a great place to start :)

texheks said...

I have tried some improv quilting, recently discovered quilt-as-you-go technique and love it...would love to try some more!

JoyceLM said...

I've made a few improv blocks with scraps, but they weren't very successful. Thanks for the giveaway.

Teresa @ Aurea's Kitchen said...

I am really afraid of improv quilting, I think that the lack of rules afraid me. I must try it someday.

Thanks

Karen @dixielandcrafts said...

I have not tried improv quilting but I would love too. I'm a perfectionist who will undo an entire project because one line doesn't match up perfectly. Like I'm being graded or something. Improv quilting may be my cure for not being so rigid with it must be perfect. It may help teach me the artistic creative side of me that is screaming to come out. Thanks for an awesome giveaway.

Unknown said...

I have tried a littl improv quilting but need more practice. This book would really help!

Joey said...

I've tried improv quilting -- some blocks I loved, others I hated -- I got a little TOO crazy and the blocks just didn't work. Would love to read more guidelines about what works and what won't!

ruthshelton10@att.net said...

Most of my quilt peicing had been improv. I find it ver hard following a pattern from start to finish because as I am making it I find others ways I want to try things. This book sounds really interesting.

Corie said...

I have not tried improv quilting but I would love to try! I'm hoping this book will get me going in a new direction!! :)

Cheryl in Friendsville said...

I have done a little bit of improv quilting and loved it. I'd liked to do more and I'm sure this book would be just the inspiration I need!!!
Thanks for the chance to win.
katydidart60@yahoo.com

cynthia said...

Every time I try an improv project, I think what fun it is! But messy!

Beth said...

I have never heard of improv quilting before. I wonder if it means making up your own plan when quilting. Anyway I would like to learn some more about it.

Debbie said...

I haven't tried it yet, but it looks like fun!

Cindy said...

I've never tried improv quilting before because I've been afraid too. It looks scary, and I haven't hsd anyone to explain it to me.

robin said...

Congrats to you and your new employee! May good things continue to find you in 2014!

Unknown said...

This is an AWESOME book review! And I feel intrigued to see this book...perfect for me. I can hardly follow a recipe without veering off and it is always an issue for me in quilting...I want a little of me in the recipe! This might be the perfect book for a quilter like me...great review! thanks
(buffy AT dblawoffices DOT com)

Sonya said...

I'm still a fairly new quilter, and I have not done any improv quilting yet. It's a little out of my comfort zone! I would love to learn more about it, though!

Unknown said...

Oh my gosh this is so timely for me! I just tried improv last night. I had some warm'n natural squares and tons of scraps so I tried to figure it out. I'm sure this book would be a great tool. I'm an eclectic type of person so improv may be a good fit for me! Thanks for the chance to win ;c)

Golfheader said...

My first improv class will be on SuperBowl Sunday!! Yahoo, I am excited to learn.

Nana Jo said...

Yes I have done some quilt improve, but I am not as good at it as traditional quilting. I am working on a T-shirt quilt using improve.

Amy's Crafty Shenanigans said...

Yes I have tried improv and LOVE it! Have met Lucie and seen her quilts in person - they are even more fabulous in real life :)

KatieQ said...

I just joined a Modern Quilt Guild and the first block of the month I will be trying with them is an improv log cabin. I am a little bit daunted by it. Although, I rarely follow a pattern as written, the idea of no rules is a bit scary for me. I am pulling myself into the 21st century of quilting one block at a time.

Golfheader said...

My first class will be on superbowl Sunday, can't wait!

Anne / Springleaf Studios said...

I'm not an improv person by nature. My quilt designs are structured and planned. That said, improv is something I've wanted to explore. Learn to loosen up a bit and expand my range. This sounds like a great book to push me along.

Faye Nettles said...

I have tried improv quilting. I love the freedom it allows you.

Unknown said...

This book looks like such fun and really intriques me. I guess my form of Improv quilting so far has been my creating paper pieced patterns and using my imagination and color to put it all together.

Betty Woodlee said...

I'm a vert traditional quilter, but I would live to try my hand at Improv. Thanks for the chance.

sewsaucysuzy said...

I have never tried Improv quilting! I feel like I need some guidance and this book is just the thing I need. I love the randomness of improv, but up to now just don't know where to start.Keeping my fingers crossed that I am the winner.

WP in VA said...

I received an error message so I can't tell if my original post went in or not. So here goes again:
This looks like so much fun thanks for the opportunity to win this book.
Wanda in VA

SHALEEN said...

Love the improv. I made mug rugs using a "whatever" technique. Found this to be very freeing and easy!
basketgrams@hot.rr.com

Marjorie's Busy Corner said...

No.....that is why I need this book...lol Thank you for this chance

Barb said...

I love the look of improve quilts but I hesitate, seems overwhelming. I would love the help of the book to build my confidence! Thanks for the chance.

CapitolaQuilter said...

One of my New Years Resolutions is to do more Improv quilting. I think it's so much fun to have a project evolve and enjoy the process however working without an end in sight makes it harder to finish than a preconceived vision.

Jenn @ A Quarter Inch from the Edge said...

I'm currently in an on-line improv bee and loving it. I quilt using a variety of techniques, but when I'm improv piecing, I feel like I'm really creating something unique. Thanks for the opportunity to win an inspiring new book!

Sandy said...

I think improv quilting would result in something uniquely mine, so I find it very attractive. But my "toolkit" could use a few more tools, too. This book is going on my must-have list.

memmens said...

Lucie's work is awesome, I've seen it in real life, she's pretty clever, I'd love to have a copy of the book to inspire me and drool over! thanks
mary(at)emmens(dot)co(dot)uk

Unknown said...

Yes I have tried improv quilting & really like it, I have been using it as a small leader/ender project. Thanks for the opportunity!

barbara woods said...

would love to try that , thanks

Tamie said...

I have tried improv a bit on my own and even took a class with Denyse Schmidt at QuiltCon. I find it challenging at best as it goes against my nature but I love it and want to keep pushing outside my box. Would love this book...

Margs Primitive Quilts said...

I have not tried this technique, but I would like to. Not to always be trying to have everything line up would be fun.I am a stickler about corners matching so it would be a learning & letting go experience. I LoVe the samples shown. Thanks for a chance to win the book!
Marg

Sharon E said...

For someone like me, where everything has it's place; improv is difficult. It is definitely something I want to try so winning the book would be a great start!

Trisch said...

I haven't tried improv quilting. Sometimes I take a pattern and tweek it here and there, but I always start out with a pattern. I think it would be fun to step outside of my box a little. Thanks for the chance to win.

Vicky said...

I have not tried improv but would love to try it.

Julianne said...

I find improv quilting really fun! I love making improv words and made fabrics...so fun! Thanks for the giveaway!

suzanprincess said...

I have tried improve quilting, and there will definitely be more in my future as I've always been drawn to informat balance in design; I mostly dislike matchy-matchy though I do want to see harmony.

Sarina said...

Most of my quilts end up improvised in some form or another. Usually I see a quilt I like and then go to work trying to figure out how it was put together. I love the puzzle/math part of quilting. But total freestyle... Umm... No. I have to have a plan!

Pattie Crum said...

I'm working on an improv quilt now and it's very freeing and fun and let's your creative side soar.

Garnet said...

I have one improv quilt in progress - wasn't all that thrilled with the class, might stay in my pigs (projects in grocery bags) forever unless I win this book.

Thanks for the opportunity

guwood at myway.com

Melinda said...

I have not tried improv quilting cuz I am a pretty linear person, but now I'm temped to start! Thx for the giveaway!

Michele T said...

Well, let me first say that almost every quilt project I make is pretty much an improve (can't follow a pattern! Lol). I especially like to make Wonky Log Cabin blocks and several connected makes for an amazing table runner (if I must say so myself!).

Donna said...


I have not yet tried improv quilting. I will!

Robyn said...

I've been making quilts for over 25 years, many have been improv........the draw of improv was often about making what I needed or wanted to give to someone.

Unknown said...

No, I have not tried improve quilting yet. I want to learn more about it because it looks interesting and gives one freedom to create.

Deborah said...

I have tried improv, but haven't actually made a full size quilt. I'm a pretty rule-bound person...I need practice with improv! Thanks for the giveaway!

Ellie G said...

I have done some improv quilting but only with scraps from quilts made using designer collections. I am not brave enough yet to spend money on fabric of my own color choices. I love to do the improv quilting though when the colors are right! It is fun and mentally healthy!

Unknown said...

I haven't tried improv yet, but would really love to. I think I need the inspiration from this book to get me out of my comfort zone and try new ways to quilt.

AM Hale said...

I made two improv log cabin baby quilts and it was so much fun -- I want to move more in that direction with my quilt-making. It felt so easy and was so absorbing and the quilts turned out really great!

giddy99 said...

No, I haven't yet tried improv quilting, but it's definitely on my To Do list!

scottylover said...

No, I haven't tried improv quilting before. It is really hard for me to not have things match up! I guess I am a little OCD that way!
Sandy A

Kathy H said...

I have never tried improv quilting. Iam such a pattern person. One of my goals for this year is to try something new.

Ginny Worden said...

I have never tried Improve Quilting, as I keep worrying the "Quilt Police" will come and lock me up.Would love to try it,just need to find a hide away where I can't be found.

redzelda said...

Good review of the book. Since I have Julie's book, the comparison to the instruction and method is very helpful. I'd love a chance at the book.
Leanne
lbdevos@gmail.com

Rhonda the Rambler said...

I have tried improv piecing but struggle a bit because I prefer precise things. 1+1=2with no mighty and maybes. Lol

Paul said...

I have tried improve quilting using my fabric scraps. I haven't used the blocks yet in a quilt, but I have ideas to use them. They turned out wonderful, and allowed me to use all sorts of scraps I had laying around. I ended up with a number of weird shaped blocks, and I am struggling on using them as opposed to squaring them up.

Jennifer said...

I've never tried improv quilting. I have always been a little intimidated--maybe I need this book, please.

Sylvia said...

I've made a few improv blocks, but felt like I ended up wasting a lot of fabric. Maybe that was because I started with fat quarters instead of scraps, though.

Rhonda said...

Love love love...did I say I love that cover quilt? Makes your eyes just move across the whole surface checking out the mix of fabrics...love it!

DeborahGun said...

I have tried and I love it - especially not cutting fabric to exact measurments!

Terry@ a quilting blog said...

Yes, I have tried improv quilting and love the freedom it gives to just 'create' something without worrying about exact measurements…and it's a great way to use up those scraps.

Unknown said...

I tried it once in the safety of a workshop. I really enjoyed it, but I haven't tried it on my own yet. I really should because it was a lot of fun. kmcassie@gmail.com

DARIA DESIGNS said...

I started an improv quilt a few months ago. I was inspired by the freedom in creating it. It's not done yet, but I'm looking forward to doing so this summer. 💜

Jacque T said...

I have done some improv bee blocks for some online bees I am involved in. I have actually been contemplating an improv quilt lately to help use up some of my scraps. I always love seeing someone else's work, I am just such a concrete thinker that I often forget the joy of the freedom of making these blocks!! This book would greatly inspire me!!

crafty prance said...

I just love following patterns. Always have, always will. But the scraps are accumulating, so...never say never! car2ole@gmail.com

nogysbaby said...

I have not done any improv. It scares the day lights out of me to just start sewing pieces of material together to make a quilt. It sounds super fun and I would love to at least try. kgray@allwest.net

Scrapbean said...

I have been eyeing this book! I have done only small amount of improv with a workshop by jacquie gering but haven't finished the project. I need some improv confidence! jill.ivie@gmail.com

Unknown said...

No, I haven't tried improve quilting yet. Definitely on my to do list. Just not sure where to start. This book could be most helpful in that! Thanks for the chance to win.

Matt and Robyn Conners said...

Oh so exciting! I have not tried improv quilting yet, I've only been sewing for a year and a half. Thanks for the giveaway

Linda said...

Never! My type A personality wouldn't allow it. ;). But I'm fascinated by the concept. Thank you for the opportunity!

wildbrumby said...

I made an improv quilt as a Christmas present - my first.
Thoroughly enjoyed it even though I had no idea what I was doing....lol
Lucie Summers book looks like a fun way to be encouraged to do more, and the eclectic designs really appeal.

Mystica said...

Never tried this. Am ever willing to! thank you for the chance to win.

mystica123athotmaildotcom

Unknown said...

I've never tried an improv quilt but I'd love to. It would be nice to just go with the flow and see the magic happen!

Thank you for the giveaway!

Unknown said...

I've only made one improvisational quilt. It was Anna Maria Horners baby gosling quilt. It was a really difficult concept for me, but I loved the end result!

ChooChoo Skadoo said...

I I have never tried. But I would love too. It looks scRy but could be fun!

Jereena said...

I have not done any improv piecing but would like to do a qayg quilt in future, which I guess is improv. My fear is that I don't have the skill to choose fabrics that go together.

Christi said...

I have not done improv piecing, but would love to try it!

cjpike (at) indiana (dot) edu

giggles said...

I have begun to make improv pillows...and having fun with them. I am a traditional quilter but I am finding pillows to be a perfect size and forum to learn to "stretch my borders!" This book would be a perfect guide! It looks gorgeous!

Unknown said...

I have just started doing modern quilts so am excited to have the opportunity to get my hands on books like this.

We did one improve block for our block of the month exercise in the guild. It is hard to let goof instructions and let yourself go. But I am excited about doing more.

Anonymous said...

I have tried some improv quilting using the QAYG method on a bag I made for my sister's birthday. :)

I would love to try some more quilting along these lines! Some of these quilts are amazing uses of colour and pattern.

Is the giveaway open to people in Australia? If so, thank you for the opportunity, and cheers from Oz. :) Jess

Hope@Acworthga said...

Improv is great. Love being able to slice and sew without a pattern. Over 9 years ago I did Improv wall hanging, liked it then and even more now. Kinda reminds me of an art piece I did in high school, sooooo many years ago.
Would greatly appreciate having this book.
hopewright2@gmail.com

Unknown said...

I have never tried Improv quilting. These pics are gorgeous, that is what inspires me to want to give it a try. I would love to win this book, my 22 year old daughter has recently became interested in quilting! Her first project was from Jaybird! Thanks so much, Tracy Charles tmcjax@yahoo.com

Vanya said...

Have not tried it yet but I am so drawn to it. Definitely in my future!

juceyj03 said...

I love improv quilting bc I can be free to design as I go and also I don't like to follow rules and with improv quilting there really are no rules!!
Thanks for the chance, Jessica
juceyj03@gmail.com

Diane M said...

I tried improv quilting. It stretched me beyond my comfort zone and I kept questioning my "design". A book like this will probably help me know it's okay to just 'go with it'. I'm adding the book to my wish list. Thanks for the review and chance to win.

Jodi - usairdoll said...

Sounds like an interesting book! No, I have not tried any improv sewing and/or quilting. I started quilting with more of a traditional start and only in the last year or so have fallen for more of the modern quilting. I think it would be fun to throw all the rules out and play. Would love to learn more!

Thank you for a super giveaway and a chance to win.

usairdoll(at)gmail(dot)com

colleen said...

I've not tried improv quilting I've been a rule follower. Now I want to try being free since it seems there are no real quilting police only the ones in my head
Colleen

kris said...

I have done a very small amount of improv and have been looking forward to this book to hopefully learn more.

Nancy said...

I have tried improv piecing but gave up too soon. I NEED inspiration!

SewInspired2Day said...

I love improv quilting. I can't wait to get my hands on this book! Thank you for the endless inspiration!

Sherry P. said...

I am ready to take that next step and try some improv quilting! I would love to win the book for some guidance and inspiration! :-)

Anonymous said...

Haven't tried improv piecing yet. This book may be just the nudge I need to jump in. -- soparkaveataoldotcom

liniecat said...

Now the cover of the book looks crisp and inviting.
The wording of the review was stimulating and then -
lol I read 'rule breaker' and thought THATS ME !
Sounds just my kind of patchwork and quilting : )

Judy Forkner said...

I LOVE improv quilting! I 1st tried it in a Ricky Tims class--made a little Chantelle flower cave-man quilting style!
I also took a Jean Wells class a couple of years ago & it was all about improv quilting--such fun!

Suz C. said...

I took a class from Gwen Marsden once that bordered on being improv. I enjoyed it and my quilt circle did a round robin which is kind of quilting on the fly. So I guess I do like improv! I enjoy the freedom and the unlimited possibilities.

Potpourri said...

I haven't tried Improv, but it is on my todo list. This book would be just the impetus I need.
Thank you.

Unknown said...

Morning from Maine.... I have been working with my own version of improv quilting for many years, trying to create the maine coast. I love working with tiny scraps to create pieces of art. This book would become my next journey...thanks for reviewing it and the opportunity for a chance to add it to the library..Make it a great day!!
Contact:walpole575@yahoo.com or my google account....

Brendon said...

I have never even heard of improv quilting until now, but it sounds like fun and I am always up for learning a new technique or a new style of quilting.

Jbjpjones@yahoo.com

Julie said...

I love improv, but am scared to death of it. NEED the book yesterday! Thank you for the giveaway.

Cindy said...

I have done some improv quilting, mostly small projects like pot holders. I find it a creative process and very freeing. No matching, no precise cutting. It is definitely my kind of quilting. Would love to win this book.

MalinisQuilts said...

Yes, I have tried many improv quilts. I like the process of designing as you go. It is so much fun to see each block take shape with their unique personality.

naturemomm said...

This book looks amazing! I like to mix improv with my "traditional" quilting, but I don't do it often enough. This book would sure give me another creative push!

Annette said...

I have tried improv.....yet! I'm sort of a rule follower but I am at the point in my quilting learning where I need to make something of my own design.

Anonymous said...

I have never tried improv quilting because I have never heard of it before now. It looks fascinating and I would love to try it!

Wendi said...

I have not tried it yet but cant wait to!! It seems so freeing

Josie McRazie said...

I have never tried improve. I have scraps that I HOPE to turn into improve... maybe I need the book to give me the boost!

azuliverde.21 said...

I've never tried it but would love to.
Thanks for the chance!

Kay said...

I haven't tried improv quilting yet but would love to, it is a great way to use up scraps. Thanks for a fun giveaway.

Regina said...

Improv is fun and makes such surprises come to life. It reminds me of when I was painting in watercolors. The mistakes usually made the painting work!

Unknown said...

Improv quilting is totally out of my comfort zone, so this book would be a great way to venture forth!!

Unknown said...

Hi! Once I made a quilt of triangles completely without measuring but I recognize that I like measuring, rules, and other inch. Sure that the book will be fine for me freer. Greetings from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (Spain). Adela.

Donna Baker said...

I haven't tried improv quilting YET, but it's on my quilt bucket list - it looks like fun and a great stash buster! would love to check out this book

babiesdoc said...

I have never tried improv quilting
but, the pix from this book make me want to try-- like now

Aliceart said...

Yes, I have tried it. I did a small 12 x 12 inch quilt in solids that I love. I would like to do more of it, and be even more adventurous with it.

Anonymous said...

I've made a few blocks with improve techniques and I loved it. I have a few improve quilts in my "to-make" list!

Sue H said...

No, haven't tried it yet,definitely out of my comfort zone. I have decided that 2014 is the year that I learn skills that don't come easy to me so improv quilting is top of my to do list, may be the book will help me along!

Vicki H said...

No, I have not tried it. The book would definitely help me get out of my comfort zone.

Debbie -- Sheltered Stitches said...

Wow, very intrigued by this Improv style.. I'm the "messy" type, hubby however is the symmetrical type.. I haven't exactly tried this method, but I am currently cutting my first large throw quilt that I decided was too boring, so I'm changing it up in my head right now!

SIMPLESEW said...

I love improv quilting and that is my personal style that my artistic ability drives me. I love matching fabric lines together and with other lines, I sew with emotion and improv allows you to focus on that artistic drive. To me its the most loving and emotional way to quilt.

Willa said...

I have tried it and enjoyed the little bit I have done. Have not done much mostly because I cannot carve out the time and space to do so in this phase of my life.

Want to do more and would love to see the book.

yarnivorous said...

The closest I've gotten to improv quilting is my wonky block quilt. Oh how I loved doing the wonky bits, but since then I've done very blocky quilts. I think I worry most about how to put the improv blocks together. I should get out the scraps now that I have some and improv with them. Then I can square them up and use them as blocks in a blocky quilt and get the best of both worlds :-)

Girty said...

I haven't tried improv quilting, but I'm eager to try...show me the way..

Mara said...

I have not tried improv quilting that's why I need this book, I am not very good at creating outside of the line, I think this book could help.

Judy said...

I've never done anything like improve quilting before. I need to see something black and white and go from there. Sounds really interesting! Thanks for the chance.

Barb and Sharon said...

I've just started an improv quilt. I am enjoying it but I need help matching up strips on the angles.
Barb@Witsend

Unknown said...

I've not had experience with improv quilting so I'd love to get the book and try it.

JoAnne in southern California said...

Rules have never meant much to my in my quilting. I've made "improv" quilts but my favorite things to make this way are place mats. I make the most beautiful, colorful place mats! I am glad to have a name for it, "improve" very nice! I am excited to see this book. Thanks for telling us about it.

bee said...

i've tried improv piecing a little bit. I love the random look and thought of creating without a pattern.

Jenny L said...

This sounds like a really interesting book! I've tried some "improv" type piecing, but I haven't been happy with my results. Maybe some suggestions from someone who knows what they're doing would help me be happier with the final product. I'm definitely a rule-following type, but might appreciate some guidance on how to stop following rules...at least some of them! Thanks for the opportunity.

Karen said...

I have never tried improve quilting, but I plan to give it a try soon. I am a novice quilter and still learning some basics, so I have a long list of techniques to try. Improv quilting is near the top of the list.

myBearpaw said...

I have always enjoyed improv piecing, and have done it many times over the last 20 years, but was lucky enough to take Lu's class at FQR last summer and she was a really funny and inspirational teache. If I win this book I am sure I will be back for more improv!

Unknown said...

Hi, I would love to win that book. I have done improv quilting in a very limited way. I just start cutting and sewing, and decide as I go along how to put it all together. But this is just in stripes and squares. I need to do more! So many ideas, so much fabric (still want more) and not enough time.

Unknown said...

I have started to do some improv piecing but would love to learn more.

Rhonda D. said...

I have not tried Improv quilting. I have done some crazy quilting. I would like to try it, though. Looks like a good way to use up stash fabrics.

wigglypup2(at)yahoo(dot)com

Pam said...

book looks like alot of fun . have not ever tried making improv quilt blocks

Gypsymoon said...

yes i have tried improv quilting.. or what i usually refer to as "winging it". i like it because i feel like there is a lot more room for creativity when you aren't worried about following rules. this book looks awesome. i definately want to check it out.

kim said...

I was afraid of improv quilting. Then an expectant mom asked me to make her baby one of the improv quilts from Sunday Morning quilts. It was hard at first but once I 'let go' and relaxed, it was really fun!! I would definitely make another one.
Thanks for the giveaway :)
kimjhicks@gmail.com

Cynthia's Creating Ark said...

This is something I would like to try for 2014. I also want to push the boundaries on my skills and knowledge. Learning is the art of staying fresh.

Heather B said...

I've never tried, it makes me nervous. I want to try but I feel like I'm not creative enough. lol I just need to suck it up and try.
mrs(dot)hbraun(at)gmail(dot)com

mom2three said...

I've never tried improv, and I'm dying to give it a go. If I won the book it would certainly push me in the right direction :)

Anonymous said...

I have tried improv quilts, being originally inspired by Nancy Crow's iconic work - she is the mother of abstract quilting and does is beautifully. I am thrilled by improv, and I'm very interested in this latest book. Thanks for the chance to comment and win!

Liz
boltonia55@yahoo.com

mikew said...

I think the Joel Dewberry new line will make a beautiful improv quilt! Looking forward to trying it!

Anonymous said...

I am dabbling in it. What draws me to it is the freedom to color outside the lines. What pushes me away is that it often seems chaotic and formless to me, needing containment. Thanks for the great giveaway chance!

dezertsuz at gmail

Moira said...

I've done some little improv pieces when using up scraps, but nothing on the scale shown in the pictures from the book. It is something that I'd like to do in the future though.

bellashea said...

I have tried a little improv on very small projects such as placemats or pot holders. I would like to learn more about branching out into larger projects. The book looks interesting. Thanks.

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