Reminder:  The Librarians will be asking for your input on what new books to purchase at the March meeting.  We are able to buy several books and the focus is on new 2020 quilting books. Stop by the library corner and give us your suggestions. See the books we own on the Library page (sign in required).

It is a New Decade – Part 2!  It is hard to believe that we are coming close to completing the first quarter of a new decade – the 2020’s.  This month we are again featuring a book from each of the past 4 decades – the 1980’s, 1990’s, 2000’s and 2010’s.

100 Applique Quilt Patterns by Jan Halgrimson and was published in 1988.

Enjoy 117 pages of full-size traditional patterns.

Magic of Crazy Quilting by Marsha Michler was published in 1998.

“Respected needle artist, J. Marsha Michler, offers readers more information on making quilts, new small projects, new embellishments, stitches, and techniques, an expanded gallery section, and more, in this revised second edition of her best-selling title The Magic of Crazy Quilting. Truly a complete resource for embellished quilting, this guide provides techniques for patchwork, applique, and embroidery. Suitable for those who have already mastered the art of crazy quilting, and those wishing to learn, 100 embroidery stitches, in 1,000 variations and combinations, are diagrammed and explained in clear photographs and detailed illustrations. This is an outstanding collection of information on embroidery and threads, sources of supply, and the historical background of crazy quilting. A captivating gallery of mesmerizing crazy quilts will delight the reader’s eye and inspire the quilter’s hand.”

Triangle Tricks by Sally Schneider was published in 2003.

“Can you create triangles in your quilts without cutting or sewing a single one? YES! Create ten triangle-filled quilts using quick cutting and easy sewing methods. Make two "triangle tricks" units at a time, without ever cutting or sewing a triangle. Find tips for playing with colors, settings, and rotations for one-of-a-kind results.”

Quilting Modern: Techniques and Projects for Improvisational Quilts by Jacquie Gering and Katie Pedersen was published in 2012.

“From two pioneers of today's modern quilting movement, Quilting Modern teaches quilters how to use improvisational techniques to make graphic, contemporary quilts and quilted projects. Explore seven core techniques and multiple projects using each technique--all presented with detailed instructions. Also included is step-by-step direction from Jacquie Gering and Katie Pedersen on tools, materials, and quilting basics, as well as expert advice on color and design.
New and seasoned quilting artists will love making stunning bed, wall hanging, pillowcase, and table accessory quilts with this must-have resource. Quilting Modern is a field guide for quilters who strive to break free from tradition and yearn to explore improvisational work.
Quilters can make the 21 projects in the book, but will also come away with the new knowledge and skills to apply to their own unique designs. In Quilting Modern, quilters will find the support, structure, and encouragement they need to explore their own creativity and artistic vision.”

A big Thank You to Lea McComas

We hope you enjoyed Lea McComas’ presentation and her quilts at the February meeting.  Her quilts were amazing. Lea donated a copy of her book Thread Painted Portraits: Turn Your Photos into Fiber Art to the ACQ library.

“Award-winning artist Lea McComas shares her secrets for stitching beautiful and realistic portrait quilts. Learn her fun-to-master techniques today!
• Begin with your favorite photo and take off on an artistic journey.
• Choose a method for creating a portrait background—from simple to more complex.
• Gain a deeper understanding of portrait composition.
• Hone your thread-painting skills.
In Thread-Painted Portraits, you’ll find: • Step-by-step instructions for choosing a photo, building a background, stitching faces and finishing your piece.
• Expert advice on selecting the perfect fabrics and thread.
• A gallery of inspiring artwork.
• Instructions for artistic binding techniques that go beyond ordinary.
• Encouragement to unleash your inner artist.
Inspired by images from daily life, fiber artist Lea McComas uses stitch artistry in pieces that have been exhibited across the country and in Europe. From her studio in Colorado, Lea challenges herself to create artwork with the breath and soul of life, using just fabric and thread.”

Library Reminders:

• Each month we feature a small selection of our library books for our members to peruse and check-out before the program meeting.  This selection changes each month.

• A complete list of the books in the ACQ Library is available on the Library page by title, author and subject (sign in required). Find the Library section on the Members page. If you are interested in a particular title, please contact Mary or Ann.

• Books can be checked out for up to 2 months.  

• Please be sure to return books in the marked basket at the library table at the back of the room.

• If you are a new ACQ member you may not realize that at monthly meetings several members donate quilting magazines.  These are free to members, so please be sure to check out the selection. These are located on a table close to the library table.