Utility-Style Quilts for Everyday Living
My first book is at the printers and I'll have a copy in my hand soon. The whole idea that I will have a book is still a bit unnerving and surreal. Yes, I'm not new to publishing and worked producing two magazines for over two years but this publication is all my vision. All twelve quilt projects were created by me, the fabrics are a reflection of my aesthetics and of my stash, the photographs (all except a few images) were styled and photographed by me, and the book layout is also my baby. No wonder I'm anxious and nervous about how this book will do--there's a lot of responsibilities here!
Hawthorn quilt by Sharon Holland Designs - Utility-Style Quilts for Everyday Living
The premise of my Utility-Style Quilts for Everyday Living book is a very simple one--make quilts to be used. I invite you to play with fabric combinations in a new light and not fuss with having enough of that perfect fabric because substitutions are the mother of all creativity.
Here's what else you will find in my book:
12 well illustrated projects, ranging from table runners to a queen-sized quilt
Great as a beginner book
Skill-building design tips and suggestions throughout
Techniques are taught in an unintimidating way with a focus on the quilt's ultimate use—not on unattainable perfection
Each fast-pieced project is great for beginners, with skill-building design tips and suggestions throughout. These lovely patterns are a reason to dig into your stash and make a quilt that will be used and loved for years to come.
You can now pre-order this book on Amazon (an affiliate) and it will be shipped November 15th, 2017.
If you're planning on attending Quilt Market next month in Houston I will be having a trunk show of the quilts from the book during School House on Friday (time and room TBA) and have at least two book signings! More info on book signing times and booth numbers next month.
Star Crossed by Sharon Holland - Utility-Style Quilts for Everyday Living
There's a quilt design for everyone in this book. I structured the book as more of a life-style book to show how quilts can be used around the home. The cover starts you on the outside of a house and the interior pages walk you through all the living spaces within a home ending in the back yard. Star Crossed was made with a tween girl in mind and I love the funky plaids (vintage and new) mixed with soft pastels.
I've always been overly ambitious and this book is no exception. Not only are there 12 great projects but I also cover how to quilt them in several utility-style, simple quilting patterns. Machine, hand, and tied techniques are also covered so you can find what works for you with each project.
Roman Stripe by Sharon Holland - Utility-Style Quilts for Everyday Living
Of course with every book (or fabric collection) there needs to be a free quilt pattern! This beautiful scrap quilt called Roman Stripe will be available for download through Landauer Publishing once the book is available. I love this quilt and secretly wish I'd have thought of it last year when I was sewing the projects for the book. It has the potential of using dozens of different fabrics and is a great one for using up scrap strips.
It's hard to be patient, believe me, I know! I'm looking forward to sharing this adventure in sewing with you and can't wait till the book is available and you can start sewing your utility-style quilts too!