Sisterhood of Scraps

Posted on February 2, 2020 by Penny Haren

This is a new book compilation by Lissa Alexander.

In their own words: “What happens when famed quilt designer Lissa Alexander invites her quilting heroines to create scrap quilts alongside her? Scrapalicious magic! Lissa reached out to celebrity ‘sister’ quilters from all walks of life and proposed a theme; then she and each designer made their own version of a quilt based on that theme. The result? Spectacular scrap quilts from true masters of the craft, and an invitation for all quilters to join the Sisterhood of Scraps! Create a dozen stunning quilts inspired by everything from simple squares to Trip Around the World designs (one assembled from a 34-year-old scrap stash!). Quilters can start a quilting bee, build a community, and bring new sisters into the fold as they make these stunning projects. Also inside is a Sisterhood of Scraps certificate that quilters can hang in their sewing space to show that they’re a proud member of the Sisterhood.”

Martingale - Sisterhood of Scraps (Print version + eBook bundle)

This book is due out next week – and I can’t wait to join the sisterhood! I certainly have enough stash. How about you????

Kim Diehl in Pieces

Posted on January 17, 2020 by Penny Haren

I love everything this gal does! And I can’t wait to get my hands on her latest – due the first week in February. Simple Patchwork is just that – all patchwork and no applique. Put the pedal to the metal and sew to your heart’s content.

Check out what we have to look forward to:

I love minis – and this one is so darn cute, I would love to make a full size quilt out of these babies!

This twist on a log cabin is striking – and the split star is just the icing on the cake!

One big block makes a stunning quilt. It has such a modern feel.

Simple piecing makes quick work of this stunning quilt!

Half-square triangles have never looked so good!

Don’t you love the way this entire quilt is framed in a giant churn dash block???

Place your order today!

Yoko Saito’s Houses

Posted on December 17, 2019 by Penny Haren

The title says it all! Yoko Saito loves houses in every shape and size. Some are pieced, some are appliqued – but all of them are stunning and will make you smile.

The book includes twenty projects, all featuring her whimsical style in all kinds of ways. Here is just a sampling:

Why not use this as inspiration to design your own village? Shouldn’t one have your quilt shops name on it???

Half Square Triangles made easy

Posted on December 11, 2019 by Penny Haren

I love Triangles on a Roll – and now they have a new home! Its Sew Emma is now producing them in ten different sizes from 1 to 6 inches.

And in typical Its Sew Emma style, they support them with a wonderful book featuring sixteen different projects. Eight different sizes of half-square triangles are showcased.

These Triangles on a Roll come in seventeen different sizes from one to seven inches and multiple half and quarter-inch sizes in between. Check out our website to view all of the possibilities: Triangles on a Roll

Primitive Gatherings with Class

Posted on November 19, 2019 by Penny Haren

Lisa Bongean is famous for working and wool and her eye for detail. She adds that awe factor to everything she touches. Her latest book – shipping this week – is full of all of the tips and tricks Lisa has learned along the way.

Ditch the trial-and-error and learn from Lisa’s decades of experience step by step: wool appliqué, embroidery stitches, and much more. Filled with close-up photos of Lisa’s hands working her magic, this book will show you how to master each technique down to the tiniest detail.

Start with Lisa’s fabric tips; then move on to her favorite tools, templates, threads, and needles. How does she create her slim vines, pretty pennies, and flower appliqués? It’s all here, along with a dozen embroidery stitches in photos so clear, you can’t go wrong.

Pillow Talk with Edyta Sitar

Posted on November 7, 2019 by Penny Haren

Your interior style is ready for a makeover with Edyta Sitar’s next book with It’s Sew Emma, Pillow Talk! 25 dazzling pillows cover different holidays, seasons, styles and sentiments. Sample different techniques, including paper piecing and applique, in these quick projects with tips from Edyta.

Why not do a series of classes teaching a different technique each month? Kit the “pillow of the month” in different colorways so they can choose a kit to match their decor. Many of these designs are quick and easy designs – instant gratification!

Plan Ahead for Lori Holt

Posted on September 20, 2019 by Penny Haren

I normally don’t write about a book that isn’t due to arrive until May, 2020 – but when that book is a collaboration between Lori Holt and Its Sew Emma, rules don’t apply!

I don’t know anything about this quilt except the size – 74 x 89 inches and the cover design. But when Its Sew Emma has four out of the top five best selling books, you know it is going to be good. And, since many of you are going to Market to plan your year, this has to be on your list!

Grids Girls Take Note

Posted on September 1, 2019 by Penny Haren

This new book by Deb Heatherly is flying off the shelves but don’t worry – more are on the way! Her newest book – Creatively Yours – features 10 quilts in a multitude of sizes and four table runners.

This book is a must-have for all of you gadget gurus! These quilts combine several different Creative Grids® tools with stunning results.

This book is a perfect companion to any Creative Grids® or Grids Girl program. Demonstrate a different ruler each month and build as they learn to show how they all work together to create the quilts of your dreams!

Applique in All its Glory

Posted on August 18, 2019 by Penny Haren

Organic Applique by Kathy Doughty just blew me away. I love to applique but her designs are breathtaking!

Just look at the cover quilt. She has combined a HUGE elongated courthouse steps block with quirky appliques in stunning colors to create a true masterpiece! And the photography is inspired! Don’t you love the paper umbrellas hanging from the ceiling?

Even her more traditional pattern – a vase of flowers – takes on a whole new look with her choice of colors and borders.

Just look at the variety of projects! Paper-piecing, applique, Broderie Perse – Kathy walks you through every technique!

Opening the first page of this book is like the first time you opened that big box of crayons – and never looked back!

Guide to Interfacings

Posted on August 15, 2019 by Penny Haren

Kristine Poor has written the absolute BEST pocket Guide to Interfacings! This is a must have for every shop; sales rep; and sewing enthusiast! And, should be a must read for every shop employee…

Let’s face it – the world of interfacings has gotten a lot more complicated over the years. And, to add to the confusion, each manufacturer calls similar products by different names!

In the beginning she explains the difference between wovens; non-wovens; and knits – and the advantages of each.Should you use a fusible or sew-in variety? Kristine will help you choose!

This 64 page pocket guide retails for just $8.50 and lists the type of interfacings, common uses, and the popular name brands of each. Over twenty categories are represented in an easy to follow format.

I love these pocket guides by Landauer – and this is an excellent addition!

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