Sunday, March 7, 2010

Sunday Books - 1 -

Just to mix things up a little I thought that today instead of the regular Sunday Stash I would throw in a book review.  

Sarah from Kit-Bik Quilts recently suggested Liberated Quiltmaking II by Gwen Marston as a book that I would enjoy.  Sarah was absolutely right - it arrived earlier this week - and  I have found that much of what Gwen has written I can relate to, and have previously applied in the process of my own quilt making.

Gwen Marston is a professional quilt maker, author and teacher.  Gwen's signature free style and liberated quilts have encouraged quilters to be fearless.  It has changed our thinking beyond the traditional quilt and offers a design process rather than a pattern.  

 
Liberated Quiltmaking II gives you a new quilting perspective.  A way to make your own unique quilts, knowing that you do not need to plan the entire quilt before you start sewing; designing without the rules.  I love some of Gwen's advice, in particular that it is harder to make a mistake than you think, and to trust yourself when choosing colors.  It really is very liberating to let go of all those quilt making rules!

 A snippet of Mexican Hat Dance by Gwen Marston, 2008

This is my first introduction to Gwen's Liberated Quiltingmaking, and I was not disappointed with the content of the book. Gwen's color intuition and design ideas are inspiring, her technique encourages you to think outside of the square, to work independently and with confidence.   

 A snippet of Liberated Sawtooth in Bars by Gwen Marston, 2009

Liberated Quiltmaking II is full of creative ideas that I really want to try out.  The different techniques and processes are all accompanied with a step-by-step guide, including clear diagrams and "what if" scenarios.  Thanks Sarah!  I am so very pleased with your book suggestion - it is colorful, inspiring and indeed liberating.