AQSpublishing

Blog Change

2011-06-13T09:29:00.000-05:00

We’re moving! Our blogs, that is.

AQS is launching a new, comprehensive quilting information site: http://www.quiltviews.com/.

You can find all my past, present, and future blog posts there. Since this site will include content from my American Quilter’s Society colleagues, too, we think you’ll be very pleased with the amount of information we have pulled together on our quilt shows, American Quilter, and The Quilt Life as well as books.

You can find me now at QuiltViews.com

Since this website is hosted at a new URL, please be sure to update your bookmarks, RSS feeds, and email subscriptions.

Please visit us at our new, improved location online. Be sure to check out the site organization, including categories, tags, and techniques. Plus, sign up for email updates to keep informed of the latest quilt news and views from the American Quilter's Society.

See you there!

Hidden Gems in the AQS Paducah Teacher Line-Up

2011-04-07T03:47:00.000-05:00

Hidden Gems in the AQS Paducah Teacher Line-Up

Lucky you, if you haven’t yet chosen which classes to attend on your trip to the AQs Quilt Show & Contest – Paducah, April 27 – 30. Two amazing instructors still have openings in their classes, and their techniques will truly expand upon and improve your quiltmaking.

Called “Dilys the Quilt” per the custom of her Welsh homeland, Dilys Fronks has taught innovative quilt designs and techniques across the US and Europe for more than 20 years. Appearing in Paducah for the first time in several years, she will teach a positive/negative appliqué technique that she calls 2-4-1. That is, when you cut your appliqué shape 1 time, you get 2 possible blocks. “2 quilts for 1 effort” is another way to phrase it, as is the title of her very successful book, Dual Image Applique, (AQS, 2010). Dilys has an unusual way with color, too, so if spicing up your quilts and getting the most out of the time you spend quilting—2-4-1 style—then Dilys’s classes are not to be missed. Be happy you caught up with her while she’s in the US!

Marianne Hatton hails from the Boston area now, but this native South African, a newly-minted U.S. citizen, brings an unmistakable continental flair to sampler quilts. Forget boring 6, 9, or 12 set quilts incarcerated by sashing and weighed down with cornerstones. Marianne shows you how to make a dynamic sampler quilt quite simply by using a super simple grid. Mix and match blocks and go to town. Create themed quilts that look like landscapes—but the blocks are just as easy as any beginner sampler class! Create a memory quilt of a trip to Europe or bring your garden indoors. The sheer versatility of the process she explains in Simply Dynamic Sampler Quilts (AQS, 2010) will blow your mind in her very popular classes. Marianne doesn’t come South very often, so if you can snag a class with her this year, count yourself fortunate.

Come Talk with Me in Paducah

2011-03-29T11:38:00.000-05:00

Andi Reynolds, executive book editor for AQS here. In just four short weeks the 27^th annual AQS Quilt Show & Contest – Paducah will open!

Being at each AQS quilt show is always exciting for me, because I get to meet so many creative people with such interesting ideas. If you have given some thought to writing a quilt book, come to the quilt show April 27 – 30 and see me! Bring just an idea or a full-blown proposal or anything in between.

My office will be on the second floor of the Julian Carroll Convention Center, to the left as you come up the stairs or off the elevator. There will be a sign indicating where to find me. The field editors for American Quilter magazine will have space there, too.

If you'd like to talk about a book or magazine idea, you can prepare in advance by reviewing our proposal guidelines. Go to www.americanquilter.com and click on “Authors.”

Potential book authors can also attend my lecture, Get into Print!, which will be Wednesday, April 27 from 10 am to 11 am in the Eisenhower Room on the first floor of the convention center. Tickets for Lecture # 2802 will be available at the Workshop Desk; this is a free event.

Later that afternoon, also in the Eisenhower Room, I will moderate the Author's Roundtable. From 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm come hear what five AQS authors have to say about what it’s like to publish with AQS. This is your time to ask all the nitty-gritty questions you can think of about what it is like to write a quilt book. Invited authors are Dilys Fronks (Dual Image Appliqué); Linda J. Hahn (New York Beauty Simplified); Sally Terry (Pathways from Quilt Top to Quilted); and Linda K. Johnson and Jane K. Wells, aka The Crafty Ol' Broads (Cuddly Snuggly Quilts). Tickets for Special Event # 2202 will be available at the Workshop Desk—and it’s free, too!

Both events should help explain the process of becoming an AQS author, but you don't need to attend them to talk with me. Walk-ins are welcome (leave me a note with your phone number if I’m not around), or you may make an appointment by emailing me at andi@aqsquilt.com no later than Wednesday, April 20. You can always ask for me at the Workshop Desk, too. I hope to see you in Paducah!

Just in Time to Celebrate Spring

2011-03-24T11:09:00.000-05:00

If you're more than ready to welcome Spring, you will love Flowers, Hearts & Garlands Quilt, based on the 2009 IQA World of Beauty award-winning quilt by Liz Jones.

Liz has shared her very clever machine applique technique and the 25 flower designs and 6 garland designs from this visual feast of a quilt. In addition, there are 42 different quilting designs interspersed among the appliques. A real value of a book all around.

Although Liz wrote the book for machine work, ambitious hand appliquers could adapt the designs. Ask for AQS item #8356 when you call 800-626-5420.

A Perennial Favorite Returns

2011-03-23T15:08:00.000-05:00

The results of the 2010 New Quilts from an Old Favorite contest from The National Quilt Museum are now available in book form.

This venerable old block received some thoroughly modern treatment in the hands of talented quilters from across the country. The 18 finalists share their stories, approaches, tips, and techniques.

With a few patterns and a couple of templates from the book, you, too, can create a fruitful rendition of the block many also know by Robbing Peter to Pay Paul, among other names.

Future contests in the annual event are Baskets (2012), Jacob's Ladder (2013), and Carolina Lily (2014). Rules are available at www.quiltmuseum.org. The book is available from there or by calling 800-626-5420. Ask for item #8350.

Reporting from Lancaster, Pennsylvania

2011-03-17T08:57:00.000-05:00

There's nothing like row upon row of stunningly beautiful quilts to rev up the creative juices. It's not just the workmanship, which you know is good if a quilt has been juried into an AQS show, but the imagination! It never ceases to amaze at what quilters see, what they visualize, and how they manifest their visions in fabric, thread and embellishment.

And the support quilters receive from the quilting industry via manufacturers and vendors is staggering. If it doesn't exist, someone will find a way to make it for you. These people really do listen when quilters talk about their needs.

And then there's the venue. Lancaster is a fascinating city and there is much to be seen - and eaten! - within easy walking distance from the Convention Center, which itself is a very nice facility, along with the Marriott.

This is AQS's second year here, and if you haven't been, you really would enjoy coming next year. Better yet, enter a quilt! Take some classes! There really is something for everyone in the land of Virtue, Liberty and Independence (motto on a flag flying from the hotel).

Look Me Up in Lancaster

2011-03-09T15:08:00.000-06:00

Andi Reynolds here, sniffing wonderful things in the air. It’s not just Spring—it’s the start of Show Season in the Quilt world. A most exciting time!

Next week AQS will host the first of our four American Quilter’s Society Shows & Contests in 2011. We will be at the Lancaster County Convention Center in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, March 16 – 19.

Being at each AQS quilt show is always exciting for me, because as the executive book editor for AQS, I get to meet so many creative people with such interesting ideas. If you have given some thought to writing a quilt book, come to the quilt show and see me! Bring just an idea or a full-blown proposal or anything in between.

My office will be the Susquehanna Board room, which is on the fourth floor of the Marriott at Penn Square. The Marriott and convention center are attached; just use the hotel’s elevators and you’ll find me.

If you'd like to talk about a book idea, you can prepare in advance by reviewing our proposal guidelines. Go to www.americanquilter.com and click on “Authors.”

You can also attend my lecture, Quilt Book Publishing 101, which will be Thursday, March 17 (Happy St. Patrick’s Day!) from 12 pm to 1 pm in the Southern Market Council Chamber. Southern Market is across Vine Street from the convention center. Tickets for Lecture # 42805 will be available at the Workshop Desk.

Later that afternoon, also at Southern Market, I will moderate the Author's Roundtable. From 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm come hear what four AQS authors have to say about what it’s like to publish with AQS. This is your time to ask all the nitty-gritty questions you can think of about what it is like to write a quilt book. Invited authors are Kathie Alyce (Flip Flop Block Quilts); Dianne S. Hire (Vivacious Curvy Quilts); Sally Terry (Pathways from Quilt Top to Quilted); and Sue Nickels (Machine Quilting: A Primer of Techniques). Tickets for Special Event # 42201 will be available at the Workshop Desk—and it’s free!

Both events should help explain the process of becoming an AQS author, but you don't need to attend them to talk with me. Walk-ins are welcome (leave me a note with your phone number if I’m not around), or you may make an appointment by noon on Friday, March 11, by emailing me at andi@aqsquilt.com. You can always ask for me at the Workshop Desk, too. I hope to see you in Lancaster!

Cabin Fever Relief

2011-02-10T17:44:00.000-06:00

Just in time to relieve winter's cabin fever -- two new books from AQS Publishing. Both guaranteed to keep you and your sewing machine warm and cozy.

First up is Rita Fishel's latest fun-filled romp, Everyday Quilts. These are quilts that are a snap to make. They're so easy, you'll be happy to use them everyday. Go ahead -- love them to death! It won't take much time or effort to make another. These are great patterns for retreats, charity, and gifts.

Need a break from piecing? Read one of Rita's humorous stories about her adventures in her funeral-parlor-turned-quilt-shop and on the road in the Stitch Mobile as a popular teacher and vendor.

Getting hungry? Make one of the delicious recipes she's included -- because quilters need nourishment!

Ready to quilt that top you just made from Everyday Quilts? Turn to Sally Terry's latest book on machine quilting, Pathways from Quilt Top to Quilted.

Sally is a well-known machine quilting instructor, and in this book, she gives the soup to nuts info every quilter needs for getting from a completed quilt top to a quilted quilt.

The book emphasizes longarm techniques, but domestic machine quilters will find oodles of tips and helpful techniques. If you've contemplated quilting tops for other people, there's advice here about that, too.

Best of all, Sally begins her books with troubleshooting so you can avoid machine quilting mistakes right from the start.

Lose those winter blues! Rev up your sewing machine and get stitching!

Both books are available at www.americanquilter.com.

Everyday Quilts by Rita Fishel is AQS item # 8349; Pathways from Quilt Top to Quilted is AQS item# 8348. Enjoy!

Sherlock Sue Puzzle

2011-01-04T17:47:00.000-06:00

We received loads of positive feedback on last week's puzzle. In celebration of the release of the latest book from AQS, here's another puzzle challenge to enjoy.

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Sunbonnet Sue Goes Abroad!

2011-01-03T11:12:00.000-06:00

Sunbonnet Sue recently discovered a love of travel thanks to first-time author Debra Kimball, M.D.

Deb fell in love with hand applique and created a Kimono Sue quilt, which was shown in the Des Moines Area Quilt Guild's show during the first AQS show in Des Moines. I saw Kimono Sue and instantly thought about the rest of the world. When I contacted Deb to ask her if she'd be interested in creating a bunch of "International Sues," she didn't hesitate. Of course she'd be delighted to help Sunbonnet Sue hit the road!

And here it is, a book of 49 brand new Sunbonnet Sues. Each one wears an iconic costume and most hold a souvenir or symbol from her native land or from one of seven parts of the USA. Best of all, you can use these patterns with any type of applique!

Think of all the different ways you can express your life with International Sunbonnet Sues! Make a quilt that celebrates your family's cultural heritage. Sew a block for every place you've traveled. Send a memento to friends in far away places to remind them of where you are from.

Yes, indeed. Sue has left the comfort and safety of home and garden and is out and about. There's no stopping her now! You can use Deb's patterns as presented or tweak them to make blocks that are highly personalized. Either way, enjoy accompanying Sunbonnet Sue on her latest adventure!
AQS# 8347. 1-800-626-5420.

And here's a fun question: which is your favorite International Sue pattern? If you'll tell me yours, I'll tell you mine! Let me know by Valentine's Day and we'll see which Sues are faves.

A Big Apple of a Book

2010-12-27T14:00:00.000-06:00

This is a step-up-to-the-plate book. If you've ever marveled at the handsome New York Beauty block but shied away from making a quilt from it, this is your time.

Linda J. Hahn, quintessential Jersey girl and well-known teacher of this block, has created a paper piecing template and simple sewing technique combination that is so successful, you'll get a perfect block with perfect points every time. And, you won't spend your sewing time pinning and unpinning! She really does make it simple.

Color and design options are endless, as are the quilting possibilities. One of the neatest things about this book, in addition to the technique itself, is the inclusion of many suggested quilting ideas. Linda and her daughter, Sarah Hahn, have created a line of quilting stencils to use with New York Beauty blocks and quilts (or any quilt, for that matter) and have shared those designs here.

Give yourself permission to make a fun quilt this next year and try a New York Beauty. You will be very uptown. The book is AQS item# 8346. Ask about stencil availability when you call: 800-626-5420.

Thanksgiving and Memories

2010-12-27T13:54:00.000-06:00

Oops! I must have gotten busy over the last few weeks because I just discovered this Thanksgiving weekend post. Here it is, hopefully better late than never.

It's not unusual for people to become nostalgic at holiday time; cementing tradition is part of the plan.

So is reviving memories, and quilting certainly lends itself to that, what with making quilts for special occasions, using certain patterns to invoke feelings and messages, giving quilts as gifts to commemorate milestones...

And here on this Thanksgiving weekend I've come across just such a heart string. I found the "label" I wrote for the third quilt I ever made. I didn't know back then (1991) that sewing an annotated history of the quilt onto the quilt was good to do. I merely wrote a note and handed it and the wall hanging off to my mom, who had the foresight to encase my bad handwriting in plastic. Thanks, Mom.

"Unlimited Mileage

This piece, my third, was done for my mother's 60th birthday -- 8/15/91. It commemorates our April '91 trip to Paducah, KY, for the American Quilter's Society annual conference.

The Mariner's Compass block is for all the "unlimited mileage" we put on the car. The deep turquoise is for the bridges over the Ohio and Mississippi rivers. The gold fabric is for the ceiling of the lobby bar at the Peabody Hotel in Memphis. The red fabric is for the Catherine the Great exhibit. The long row border is for the long, flat Missouri roads."

Well, now.

No one told me back then that making a Mariner's Compass (in the era before paper piecing) wasn't something a novice should do. I'm happy it doesn't bow that much in the center (grin). But more than any other quilt I've made, that one is special.

I'm sure every quilter has a super special quilt, even when it's impossible to choose among the "children." Feel free to share your favorites with us on Facebook or here on the Publishing blog.

New York Beauty Puzzle

2010-12-27T13:27:00.025-06:00

I've always been a fan of jigsaw puzzles. At AQS, we've been thinking about ways we can provide fun and excitement to quilters in addition to our shared love of fabric. We'd like to see whether anyone else is interested in puzzles, too.

We've made an online jigsaw puzzle one of the quilts from New York Beauty Simplified by Linda J. Hahn. We hope you enjoy putting it together as much as we did. Let me know what you think!
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Have some fun putting this quilt together. Please share your comments and thoughts on whether you'd want to see more of these in the future.

Happy Piecing!

Smart Quilting in These Economic Times

2010-11-17T13:56:00.000-06:00

If scrappy quilts are not your style, and if you like applique, and if you're trying to work out of your stash to save money, then Dilys Fronks' latest book is just the ticket.

In Dual Image Applique she describes how to get two images from one cut. You save time as well as money, and you end up with two blocks, quilts, or projects to show for your effort. For example, look at her book's cover: clever!

Besides having 10 fun projects from home dec to quilts, Dilys teaches terrific machine applique technique, so if you've been looking for instruction, this book will show you what you need to know.

The extensive gallery will inspire you to put her technique to work in any quilt project.

Dilys is known in her home of Wales as "Dilys the Quilt." She has taught internationally for years and will be teaching at the AQS Paducah show in 2011 (online registration will open in early December; her classes fill fast, so don't wait!). To maximize your quilt dollar and produce amazing quilts, order AQS #8240 online or by calling 1-800-626-5420.

You'll Flip for Flip Flop Block Quilts!

2010-11-05T19:23:00.000-05:00

Sometimes the simplest design yields the most amazing results.

One inspired day, quilt landscape artist Kathie Alyce, proprietor of Waterfall Quilts and familiar face at merchant malls throughout quiltland, created The Flip Flop Block, a gently curved, tessellated acrylic template. At her first International Quilt Market, she sold out of her simple yet clever device, and voila -- a tool inventor and truly amazing quilting device were born!

No matter how you turn The Flip Flop Block, you get amazing designs. The pieces are so easy to sew, you don't need pins. Follow her directions to add or change the marking lines on her template, and presto! More design possibilities!

Now how smart is that -- take a basic template, add or change lines and develop an unlimited number of new designs? Simple, right? Amazing, also right!

Kathie's patterns have been popular for several years. In her first book she presents exciting, brand new designs, including the slickest Wedding Ring quilt ever. Fans of curves will love her book. Quilters who see themselves as too traditional to play with artistic concepts will appreciate how she gently guides them towards a more contemporary look without all the design angst.

Flip Flop Block Quilts is truly a great technique-plus-pattern-plus-project book, and it is one that will not only yield projects of Kathie's designs but will also set you on your way to a new approach to curves, tessellation and contemporary, more artistic design. Now that's value in a book! Call 1-800-626-5420 to order.

Loss

2010-10-28T01:25:00.001-05:00

AQS lost a good friend today.

Let me rephrase that.

I lost a good friend today.

Marge Boyle, director of sales and marketing, passed away suddenly the evening of October 26, 2010. We found out about it first thing today (well, yesterday; it's after midnight on the 28th now).

No one saw this coming. Marge had not been ill.

Such a shock.

Such a strange day at work.

It was my privilege to write a Memorial Page about her, which will appear in the January issue of American Quilter and on a banner slide of our web site home page (www.americanquilter.com). You can read our official statement of loss there.

I'd like to be more personal here, if I may.

Marge and I shared the responsibility of posting, but she rarely had time, so most of what you've read here has come from me. She did enjoy posting after her biannual trips to Market, though.

She'll miss this one. She would have arrived in Houston about 12 hours from now.

As at any work place, you develop friendships. At AQS, Marge was one of my closest friends. Don't get me wrong; the staff at AQS gets along so well, it's sometimes scary. We're ALL friends. But you know how it is; some are closer than others. This is what I mean about Marge.

She and her husband, Jim, were one of two couples my husband, Dennis, and I socialized with. We shared a lot in common: no kids; dogs we adored; humor; a taste for good wine and good food, especially home-cooked "gourmet."

Marge was sometimes my roommate when we were on the road.

I took care of her the time she was so sick in Des Moines.

She was my peer. We were compatible. We got along.

In any company, this is wonderful. In a small company, this is special.

We worked so well together, each contributing our strengths. A good team.

I especially loved when we polished marketing copy together. I wrote and edited the draft. She'd read it and then we'd sit at my computer, brainstorming and saying different words until we made it perfect. I loved how we both "knew" without saying that we'd hit on the right phrase.

For a wordsmith, there are few finer moments.

Marge enjoyed those moments, too.

Good times.

She shared her knowledge unselfishly. This was never more appreciated than the first few months I worked at AQS. She'd only been there a year longer, but she truly was a pathfinder for me, explaining and describing things small and large. How to change the phone and computer out-of-office messages; where the extra toilet paper hides; how she saw the quilt industry.

I know, I know. Marge had a lot of friends. She had a long history in retail and then years in quilting, and she was well-liked at work, so I'm hardly alone in her loss.

If you'd like to post a message about Marge, you may do that here or on our Facebook page.

But she won't be there every day to share our latest dog (mis)adventures, or to just talk about the weather, or to conjure up magic prose about the best quilt books in America.

Oh, dear.

I'll miss her.

Slow Quilting

2010-10-24T15:42:00.001-05:00

You may have heard of the Slow Food Movement, which is an umbrella term encompassing ideas such as buying local produce, growing your own food, and cooking in more than eating out.

I suggest there is a corollary to quilting, but it isn't complete or perfectly accurate. I'm not talking about buying fabric made locally (although supporting your local quilt shop is always nice), or growing the cotton with which to make your own fabric.

Instead, what I mean is that slow quilting is what many, many quilters must do just because we are so busy with the rest of our lives. No matter how many gizmos and gadgets we own to help speed up the quilting process, it just takes many of us a long time to get from concept to finished quilt -- and we should accept that.

And what about when quilters choose to create quilts slowly, instead of quickly and fast? What about those of us who choose more complicated patterns or projects, or who prefer to work entirely by hand? Or to start a project by dyeing fabric and thread, even?

Thankfully, there is room in the quilting universe for everyone of every persuasion. It's a rare treat for me to attend a class or workshop, but when the opportunity arose recently to study (again) with Cindy Blackberg, I was quite content to hand piece a feathered star block. Two and a half days of quietly, slowly putting together one of quilting's more challenging blocks was a real tonic.

And something you may not know, if you've never hand-pieced a block before, is that it can be about as fast as machine piecing if you've got any experience, and, the finished block has a distinctive 3-D quality to it. I'm not a good photographer but I tried to show this in the first photo; those seams were lifting the block right off my ironing board, so I spritzed them with water and let the block dry for a day. Had this been machine pieced, the smaller stitches would have helped compress the seams and the block would have lain flatter before pressing.

Then I flipped the block face up and spritzed again, with another day for drying. If there had been blocking problems, this is when I would have pinned my block to make it square, but Cindy's cutting method reduces bias edges to almost zero, and my block was true.

Talk about sharp points! There are times when hand work brings a certain precision to your work. I know, I know; machine precision is also eminently achievable, but hand work brings so much control -- no machine between you and the result. Just your own body and rhythm.

Now that it's complete I'll contemplate what to do with my feathered star block (I'm sure I won't make an entire quilt of these blocks, as satisfying as this one was to make), and that, too, can be a process as fast or slow as the quilter involved allows, requires, needs, or wants.

Isn't this a great hobby? Bottom line: fast or slow, enjoy the time you spend quilting.

Making Quilt History One Show at a Time

2010-10-11T17:15:00.000-05:00

If you've been to more than one national or international quilt show, you know what to expect -- amazing, mind-blowing quilts; inspirational vendor displays and unlimited shopping opportunities; and life-changing special quilt exhibits.

Thus it was at this past week's third annual AQS Quilt Show and Contest in Des Moines, Iowa. Contest quilts came from 40 states and five countries; winners came from 18 states and 1 country. Vendors came from all over, as did the special exhibits. And there was also the always-terrific, prolific, prodigious display from the Des Moines Area Quilt Guild.

Aside: Lest you think hand quilting has finally lost out to machine quilting except for major hand quilting or hand workmanship awards, check out the Des Moines winners, especially the Best Wall Quilt award:

http://www.americanquilter.com/shows_contests/desmoines/2010/quilt_contest/quilt_winners.php

Even in a job where we see quilts day in and day out, the show displays never cease to make us stop, take a deep breath, and appreciate the creativity and artistry of the quilt makers who enter the show.

And every once in a while, something special comes along. AQS tries to bring the best of these once-in-a-lifetime exhibit experiences to every show. Des Moines 2010 was no exception, but I had a personal favorite: Men and the Art of Quiltmaking, curated by Joe Cunningham. Joe is the author of the recent AQS eponymous book describing the quiltmaking art of 30 guys who make quilts. (Call 1-800-626-5420 to ask about buying a copy.)

The exhibit wasn't the first display of quilts made by men, and it wasn't intended to make any statement other than to represent the book, says Joe. It was history-making, all the same. None of these quilts had ever been seen together before and it is highly unlikely they will ever be together again. Voila - history. Furthermore, several of the artists were on hand during the show to discuss their work. This may be common at gallery exhibits, but not so much at large quilt shows. Voila - history encore.

The longer we have a robust quilting tradition and open venues in guilds, clubs and shows, the less "rare" will be any of the anomalies that have flavored the c. 1976 quilt revival -- e.g., 3-D quilts, art quilts, quilts by men, quilts from specific materials, etc. So it's one for the history books each time an exhibit is mounted for us to behold, admire, draw from, and remember.

Join us for the next piece of quilt history making in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, March 16 - 19, 2011. Enter or attend; either way, you'll be a part of creating quilt history.

Watch Out! Vivacious Curves Ahead!

2010-09-28T15:02:00.002-05:00

Known for her fun sense of color and play with quilts, Dianne S. Hire has come through with another wonderful book. Vivacious Curvy Quilts takes all the fear out of curved piecing and loads your design kit with numerous "curvies," curved shapes that are delightful and full of potential.

A popular teacher, Dianne shows off the work of many of her students; the book is full of bright, cheery photographs that leave no doubt about her technique's versatility.

Instructions for 11 variations are included but this book is truly a springboard to individual creativity more than a "make-this-project-this-way" book. Dianne's spirit shines through on every page, so it is definitely a fun read. AQS # 8241. www.americanquilter.com.

Prepare to Be Amazed!

2010-09-28T14:54:00.000-05:00

If you love the look of pieced quilts but not the piecing, this is the book for you. Sisters Ann Seely and Joyce Stewart have written about making machine-stitched quilts that look pieced but are appliqued.

In fact, although these quilts are simple to make, they look complicated. Clever placement of basic shapes and smart use of fabric contributes to the pieced effect. You'll be amazed when you realize just how ingenious their designs are.

Forget set-in seams and curved piecing. Open the door to adapting their technique to any pieced project. Use the alternate colorways to create your own quilts, and people will say, I Can't Believe It's Not Piecing! AQS # 8236
www.americanquilter.com

Quilts Your Grandkids Can Snuggle In!

2010-09-22T10:05:00.000-05:00

Those Crafty Ol' Broads have done it again. Sisters Linda K. Johnson and Jane K. Wells have written another book packed with over-the-top, fun-to-make, colorful quilts -- Cuddly Snuggly Quilts. (Their first was Beyond the Block, 2009, AQS# 7611.)

This time, they created the projects in the book for their grandchildren. Each quilt was made to match that child's personality, interests, or a milestone.

These quilts are made for snuggling, which means being used, which means not too much effort has to go into making them. As a result, these are dynamite patterns for charity.

And because Linda and Jane are doting aunts as well as loving grannies, each project is shown in a different colorway. You'll get tons of ideas from these 17 quilts and their alternates. If you love making quilts for lots of people, this is the book for you -- AQS# 8239.

Men and the Art of Quiltmaking

2010-09-09T10:07:00.024-05:00

Long before Europeans colonized America and brought quilting as a textile tradition with them, men were the professional quiltmakers, not women. So begins Joe Cunningham's new book, Men and the Art of Quiltmaking.

AQS is honored to be the publisher for this book, which profiles 30 of today's male quiltmakers. What they do, why they do it and how they do it are discussed. Photos of their work are included along with nine patterns.

You'll recognize some names but others will not be familiar. Men aren't quite the oddity in quiltmaking in 2010 that they were even five years ago, but are still worth understanding, because they add a certain dimension to the art of quiltmaking.

Joe is a great writer and clearly enjoyed his interviews with his fellow artists. As he writes, "...I began to feel like we were brothers of the quilt." It's a brotherhood with a huge spectrum of tastes and style, from traditional to contemporary to art quilt. Their methods and approaches vary tremendously, too.

For those attending the AQS Des Moines quilt show this October 6 - 9, a bonus is a special exhibit by 24 of the book's quilters, curated by Joe. There have been exhibits of quilts made by men, and male quiltmakers are no longer rare participants in shows and exhibits, but this is the first all-male quilter exhibit to come from a single book on the subject.

Joe will be teaching quilt classes and lecturing in Des Moines, and giving a performance of his musical, "Joe the Quilter." And, he will be signing his book in the AQS booth, so this is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in quilts made by men and talk with a male quilter. Click here to learn more about the show: www.americanquilter.com

Joe's fondest wish is to write more about male quilters. Read his first book on them by ordering AQS item #8243 at 1-800-626-5420, or at the link above. See if anything Joe discovered surprises you, and let him know about it by commenting here.

Meet Me in Des Moines, Myrna

2010-08-19T13:34:00.002-05:00

OK, "Meet Me in Des Moines, Myrna" doesn't have quite the ring to it Judy Garland gave to "Meet Me in St. Louis, Louis" in the almost-eponymous movie, but this really is an open invitation to come see me during our show this October 6 - 9 at the Iowa Convention Center.

I'll be in an office in the hallway outside the exhibits, hoping to talk with prospective authors about their book ideas (look for the easel sign that says, "Andi Reynolds, Executive Book Editor"). If you'd like to talk about a book idea, you can prepare in advance by reviewing our proposal guidelines. Go to www.americanquilter.com and click on "Authors."

You can also attend my lecture, Publishing 101, which will be Wednesday, October 6 from 11 am to 12 pm in the Iowa Hall of Pride Theater. Register for Lecture # 32801.

I'll also be moderating the Author's Roundtable on Thursday, October 7 from 5 pm to 6 pm. This, too will be in the Iowa Hall of Pride Theater; it is Special Event # 32201. Come hear what four AQS authors have to say about being AQS authors: Joe Cunningham (Men and the Art of Quiltmaking), Jean Biddick (Masterful Machine Pieced Quilts), Zena Thorpe (Beautiful Alphabet Applique), and Kimberly Einmo (Jelly Roll Quilts & More).

Both events should help explain the process of becoming an AQS author, but you don't need to attend them to talk with me. Walk-ins are welcome, or you may make an appointment before October 1 by emailing me at andi@aqsquilt.com. You can always ask for me at the Workshop Desk, too.

Being at each AQS quilt show is always exciting for me because I do get to meet so many creative people with such interesting ideas. If you have given some thought to writing a quilt book, come to the quilt show and see me! Bring just an idea or a full-blown proposal or anything in between. I look forward to meeting you.

Copyright and Quilt Shows

2010-08-17T08:06:00.000-05:00

We receive a lot of questions about getting design permission when people enter our quilt shows. Here's a link that should help. It goes to an article written by Bonnie Browning, AQS Show Chair. We are always glad to answer any questions related to copyright; just call us at 270-898-7903.

http://www.americanquilter.com/quilt_world/news_view.php?id=154

Who Are Those Guys?

2010-08-02T18:39:00.000-05:00

Remember this line from the movie Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid?

That's what I was wondering several years ago when men quilters began appearing in quilting magazines. I wanted to read a book about men who quilt, and then I became executive book editor at AQS. I suggested we do a volume on these artists, and not long afterwards, I ran into Joe Cunningham. He'd been thinking along the same lines. The result is his forthcoming book, Men and the Art of Quiltmaking (due this Fall), in which he interviews and shows a sampling of the work of 29 men who quilt. And his own.

Joe will be teaching at our Des Moines show this October 6 - 9 and will curate an exhibit of quilts from his book. It really is something to read what these guys are thinking. One minute, they sound like aliens. The next minute, they sound like every quilter you've ever known.

Artists in the book are Bob Adams, Phil Beaver, Don Beld, Jack Brockette, Richard Caro, Joe Cunningham, Andre Emmell, John Flynn, Scott Hansen, Luke Haynes, Raymond K. Houston, Michael James, Michael Kashey, Alan Kelchner, Richard Larson, Din Linn, Mark Lipinski, Mike McNamara, Jim Mikula, M Mueller, Scott Murkin, Shawn Quinlan, Gerald Roy, Jonathan Shannon, George Siciliano, David Taylor, Ricky Tims, Holice Turnbow, David Walker and Erick Wolfmeyer.

Seeing is believing, so make plans to come to Des Moines to answer the question: Who are those guys?

A New Generation of Sampler Quilts is Upon Us

2010-07-23T15:38:00.000-05:00

Consider the sampler quilt. That venerable staple that so many quilters learn on has a long but boring history: make six (or 12 or some other even number) blocks, each different but all the same size. Sash them, make cornerstones, add a simple border and voila - your first quilt. Teachers and students love samplers for combining all the basic techniques in one neat package, but they can be so blah.

Well, it's a new day in the quilt world, given Marianne Hatton's approach in Simply Dynamic Sampler Quilts. Gone is the concept that all blocks must be the same size. Her GridMap (copyright) technique shows and encourages the accurate use and placement of blocks of diverse sizes.

Gone are boring, matchy-matchy color schemes. Now samplers can be thematic, evocative, and artful.

This experienced teacher pulls all of this off while giving excellent basic how-to-quilt instructions, so shops will still love giving sampler classes to beginners. In fact, this book is a gentle exercise in design, which frightens so many new (and some not-so-new) quilters and so many people find difficult to teach.

If you're looking for a fresh approach to teaching, have a sampler idea of your own you wish were snappier, or like designing traditional-but-contemporary-too quilts, the next generation sampler quilts in this book are for you. AQS #8237 (800-626-5420)

Considering Quilting Trends

2010-07-11T16:52:00.000-05:00

I'm occasionally asked to write something for a special project at AQS and this is always a delightful task. I did, after all, begin my career as a writer before becoming an editor.

The 2011 Kentucky Visitor's Guide will have a very short piece by me in it about Kentucky's quilt heritage. This topic has been admirably covered by others, including Jonathan Holstein and Shelly Zegart, and I make no claim to improving ground they have so capably made flourish; I'm just reporting.

What I do want to say, though, is that researching that super short article has reminded me once again of how accomplished 19th and 20th century quilters were. With very few tools, bad lighting, not a lot of time and questionable fabric and thread, they created quilts that would stun us today, even if made with the very latest in everything quilting.

Take a look at Kentucky Quilts 1800-1900 (Pantheon Books, 1982) to see what I mean. Whether your taste is what you see or not, you must be impressed with the creativity, artistry and workmanship in those quilts. In the 21st century, we have embarked on a campaign to make quilting as quick, easy, fun and painless as possible. I can't say if this is good or bad, and I don't mean to. I just think it's astonishing, when we take the time to look back, at what our foremothers made happen with needle and thread, unsupported by an almost 4 billion dollar industry.

We should give thanks every day that we have so much creative and artistic support, from fabric manufacturers to thread makers to tool creators to teachers and, yes, publishers like AQS. The list is becoming endless, and that, in itself, is cause for celebration. Quilters have never had it so good.

Take some time to really examine the much older quilts we are lucky to have available to us, whether in books, in exhibits or in person. My hope is that you will have an epiphany similar to mine.

Spice Up Your Quilts

2010-07-09T15:56:00.000-05:00

It's so much fun to find (and buy) gadgets and gizmos that bring out your creativity, we sometimes overlook the tried-and-true we already have.

Consider the sewing machine. Whether sort of old (like some of us) or loaded with bells and whistles (also like some of us), not many people take full advantage of the machine's properties when making quilts.

Enter 9 very talented Janome educators. Led by editor Nancy Fiedler, they have compiled a nifty book that explains 11 different techniques (plus 4 variations) and designed 13 really creative projects to teach how to take make the best use of what you probably already own. Make an oval table runner, a bed scarf, even a fringed journal for sketching or noting your best ideas. Wallhangings, quilts and pillows are in this book, from traditional to contemporary in style.

In addition, the book has "Bright Idea" boxes with suggestions of taking each technique further or in a different direction.

The contributors are (in order of appearance in the book): Kim Schultz, Valora Hammond, Carol McKinney, Nancy Fiedler, Mary Carollo, Marilyn Gatz, Nancy Burg, Louis Carney and Patsy Shields. Their names may be familiar if you've taken classes at AQS shows where Janome machines are used, or if you've been to other sewing events where class instructors are assisted by these oh-so-knowledgeable sewing machine experts.

Once you've read Creative Sewing Techniques by Machine, you'll never make ho-hum projects again, and your machine will truly be your creativity ally. (AQS # 8235; 1-800-626-5429)

Very Three Dimensional

2010-06-30T13:18:00.000-05:00

Remember the warning not to "fold, spindle or mutilate?" Well, maybe spindling and mutilating are still bad ideas, but folding is definitely in!

Co-authors Geesje Baron and Esther Vermeer have written a great book on making folded blocks that will take every project into the third dimension. There are 70 blocks to choose from to make 12 unusual projects, and the best thing is that any block can be adapted to any project. Learn the basic folds and go to town creating your own folded blocks.

There's a handy visual block reference so you can go straight to the blocks that interest you and mix and match at will. Plus, each block is rated for ease, so you can start where you're most comfortable.

Enjoy taking your piecing into another world with 3D Folded Blocks. AQS #8158 (1-800-626-5420)

Avail Yourself of AQS Expertise

2010-06-22T10:49:00.000-05:00

If you're involved in planning guild programs or retreats, you know it can be a head-scratcher to think of someone to present lectures, workshops, programs or trunk shows. You have years of quilting expertise available via AQS authors!

Many of our authors, past and present, are active teachers, criss-crossing the country to share their passion and knowledge. To see if someone you're interested in is available, search the Internet for a web site; most teachers list their classes and schedules right up front. Others give contact information so they can tailor what they do to your guild's needs.

Can't locate someone on your own? Contact AQS. We'll contact the author and share your interest in having her teach, and she'll get back to you. We're sure you'll get great programs your guild members will love from AQS authors.

'Tis the Season

2010-05-20T08:59:00.001-05:00

If you're a gardener as well as a quilter, as many of us are, then Spring and Summer are joyously creative seasons for you indoors (sewing) and out (planting). Here at AQS Publishing, mid-May is a bonanza of beautiful quilts and creative ideas as our latest round of manuscripts and finished projects arrive.

If you think you have a good quilt book idea, you may submit a book proposal anytime. The guidelines are on our web site under the "Authors" tab. As you develop your proposal, never hesitate to call or email with any questions or concerns you may have. That's what I'm here for!

We review book proposals mid-month in January, February, May, June, August, September, November and December, so you never have to wait long for our response to your book idea. In the other four months, we are hosting quilt shows, and I am there to meet you in person to discuss your ideas (see the schedule below). I also give a lecture -- it's free -- on publishing with AQS, and it's a wonderful way to discover what's involved in getting from idea to book with us. We also host either an Authors' Roundtable or a Book Fair so you can meet and speak with AQS authors and talk with them about their publishing experiences.

Come see me and everyone at AQS at these upcoming shows and bring your best book ideas!

Lancaster, Pennsylvania: March 16-19, 2011; March 14-17, 2012
Paducah, Kentucky: April 27-30, 2011; April 25-28, 2012
Knoxville, Tennessee: July 14-17, 2010; July 13-16, 2011; July 18-21, 2012
Des Moines, Iowa: October 6-9, 2010; September 28-October 1, 2011; October 3-6, 2012; October 2-5, 2013

Andi

Look Who's in the Neighborhood!

2010-05-05T14:44:00.002-05:00

Welcome a charming cast of characters into your sewing room! Meet the Yo-Yo Family, small doll folks created by Bobbie McLure Long. Each individual is dressed in a style that matches his or her personality, complete with accessories. They look terrific, but they couldn't be easier to make.

And they each have their own little quilts! These happy little textiles would be at home in any dollhouse or decorating tables, nooks or crannies.

Like most families, the Yo-Yos have pets! You've got to meet Juno the Dog and Missy the Cat.

If you love making yo-yos and are looking for a new way to play with them, this friendly bunch is just waiting to have fun with you. Ask for AQS item # 8157 (800-626-5420).

26th Annual AQS Quilt Show & Contest

2010-04-28T11:15:00.003-05:00

WOW! What a great show last week. The quilts were awesome, the merchant mall was filled with a wide variety of quilting products, and the food court outside had that home-style picnic atmosphere. I didn't try all the dishes but I'll be back next year to sample more of the barbecue and yummy desserts.

Congratulations to all the winners and semi-finalists, and thank you for once again making this a successful quilt show.

JANOME Best of Show
This year's award went to Sue McCarty, Roy, UT for her quilt Tribute to Tolkien.
Sue made her prizewinning quilt for her brother Jim. She explains: “My brother is an avid fan of the Lord of the Ring series and the later film adaptation by Peter Jackson, and I also feel it offers something for everyone as a classic story of heroes’ journeys in which all characters undergo change.” Read more...

American Quilter's Society Hand Workmanship

Vintage Button Bouquet by Linda Roy, Knoxville, TN

Click here to view the entire list of winners.

2010 Catalog of Show Quilts
Bring the Paducah quilts home with you! Enjoy the beauty, creativity, and ingenuity of this year's show at home. The 387 semi-finalists are juried entries from 47 states and 10 countries.
Book or CD-ROM Retail $20.00 Member price $16.00

Book #8155

CD#8285

A Star (or Two) is Born!

2010-04-27T09:18:00.003-05:00

Today, April 27, is the day our own Bonnie Browning and upcoming AQS author Judy Woodworth appear on The Quilt Show! Be sure to tune in and watch both quilting experts. Judy will show how to stitch freeform feathers, and Bonnie shows all kinds of ideas for finishing a quilt's edge.

Then, when Judy's first book, Freemotion Quilting Handbook, comes out early this Fall, you'll know something about her.
Her book includes all kinds of tips and techniques she uses to longarm amazing, award-winning quilts.

Click here to enjoy the show!

It's Show Time!

2010-04-20T09:10:00.000-05:00

The quilts are up, the vendors are in, the quilters are arriving every minute. The dogwoods are hanging on to their blossoms just long enough for everyone to get that last glimpse, and the weather is gorgeous. The National Quilt Museum has fabulous exhibits up and the area merchants are all decked out with quilts to welcome everyone. It's show time in Paducah!

If you aren't here or on your way here, stay tuned to www.americanquilter.com for the latest: photos of the show winners and later, a video overview of what you missed. The new Pavilion is a wonderland inside with vendors, Quilter's Park and special exhibits, and the Expo Center and Convention Center are their friendly familiar selves, packed to the gills with quilts, quilts and more quilts, and vendors galore. The Best of Show quilt will knock your socks off. The classes are outstanding and several are still available; check the Workshop Desk during show hours (9am to 6 pm Wed - Fri, 9am to 5 pm Sat). There are even seats available to hear Kaffe Fassett, Eleanor Burns and Ricky Tims at the Carson Four Rivers Center! Don't you wish you were here!

I'm expecting to meet several authors and would-be authors during the show. It's always exciting to see what creative people have in mind for a book or article, so the show is a special time for AQS Publishing. Chris Brown, Editor-in-Chief of American Quilter and I will have office space on the second floor of the convention center past the Admissions Desk. Jan Magee, Editor-in-Chief of our new magazine, The Quilt Life with Ricky Tims and Alex Anderson, will be in Booth 4008 in the Pavilion. If you are in Paducah, stop by to see us!

Creative Confidence

2010-04-09T13:04:00.000-05:00

Nothing helps creativity like having the right tools, skills and techniques at hand. Renae Haddadin, well-known for her stunning machine quilting on intricately designed medallion quilts, has written her first book to share the simple, easy-to-do methods she uses to achieve her award-winning results.

Amazing Ways to Use Circles & Rays is more than a technique book. In addition to the projects, which range from wallhangings to large quilts to a tree skirt, Renae offers - no, gives - permission to take the skill set she's provided and run with it. She has truly broken circle and ray drafting, construction and foundation paper piecing into such simple steps, beginners can produce highly sophisticated original designs right away.

AQS #8154 at www.americanquilter.com or 1-800-626-5420.

An Annual Favorite Returns

2010-04-05T09:01:00.002-05:00

It's that time of year again -- publication of the winners of The National Quilt Museum's annual New Quilts from an Old Favorite contest.

The 2009 block was a perennial love -- the Sunflower block. Barbara Brackman shows no fewer than 19 variations in her Encyclopedia of Pieced Patterns, and the contestants were as imaginative as ever. First place winners Claudia Clark Meyers and Marilyn Badger are frequent quilting partners and award-winning quilters, yet they say every win is a thrill.

Catch their excitement and the joy of stretching boundaries shared by the other contributors to this book when you order AQS# 8152. www.americanquilter.com/buybooks or 1-800-626-5420.

Learn which block will be next at www.quiltmuseum.org.

Just in Time for Spring

2010-03-29T14:40:00.000-05:00

What better way to celebrate the arrival of warmer weather and green growing things than with a sweet food treat! Ann Hazelwood has completed her trilogy of "100s" with 100 Sweet Treats by and for Quilters. The book itself is delicious with many photos of quilts by the dessert makers. When you need something more substantial, dig in to one of 100 short, yummy recipes for bars, breads, brownies, cakes, cobblers, cold desserts, cookies (are you hungry yet?), crunchies, fruit dishes, pies, puddings or sundries. Is it your turn to make treats for the guild or your sit-and-stitch group? Need a hostess gift? This book is the one! (AQS #8156)

Now that you're all happy from eating a sweet treat (or two), it's back to the quilting with Sue Patten's latest books, Adaptable Quilting Designs. Here are 90 pages of designs Sue created to fill those tricky spots on a quilt -- the sashings, cornerstones and setting triangles. All of them can be worked by hand or any type of machine, and reduced or enlarged as needed. Sue's designs work up beautifully as is, or use them to jump start your own ideas. If you enjoyed Sue's first book, Quilting Possibilities...Freehand Filler Patterns, you'll love this one. (AQS #8234)

The blogging program doesn't like posting pictures today, but you can see the books on our home page -- www.americanquilter.com. Call 800-626-5420 to order.

Lancaster or Bust!

2010-03-15T11:33:00.000-05:00

If you've ever planned a birthday party, a wedding, even a potluck dinner, you know what a mad scramble it can be as the time draws near. Add hundreds of quilts, dozens of teachers, hundreds of vendors and thousands of quilters and you can imagine life at AQS this last week before we open in Lancaster on March 24!

Our first show in that lovely city will be like our other shows, only different, because each show has its own "flavor," depending on so many variables -- the city, the local volunteers, the weather (!), and most importantly, the attendees. This show we expect to have many, many more people from the East than we usually see, certainly in Knoxville and Des Moines. Be prepared to hear a wide variety of accents, y'all and you guys!

Not only is this our first event in Lancaster, the show will be the first big event in the brand new Lancaster County Convention Center. Everyone there is excited and probably a little nervous. Truth to tell, so are we, for although we've put on big quilt shows for 25 years, and have become accustomed to being in new-to-us venues, every show is different. We can only hope we've planned the best to make this a memorable time for everyone involved.

We are thrilled with the enthusiastic reception we've received from Lancaster folks and from people long accustomed to attending a quilt show in Southeastern Pennsylvania. The area is a must-visit Mecca for quilters, and we're delighted to keep the quilting spirit alive there. See you next week!

Create Masterful Quilts Based on Mosaic Tiles

2010-03-05T08:33:00.000-06:00

Mosaic tile patterns have inspired quilters for years, and Jean Biddick is no exception. She has put clever drafting and piecing techniques in play to create visually stunning quilts based on the tiled floors of the Truro Cathedral in England.

These exceptional quilts are truly easier to make than they appear. A few of them are challenging, which many quilters find appealing. Not many books on the market today appeal to quilters looking to elevate their skills, so Masterful Machine Pieced Quilts should light up their sewing rooms.

The quilts are so beautiful, this book could almost pass as a coffee table book. There plenty of ideas here to inspire competition-level work. Call 1-800-626-5420 to order AQS #8153.

Book Proposals Welcome

2010-03-01T14:14:00.000-06:00

If you've ever thought about writing a quilt book, consider sending a book proposal to us. We look for fresh ideas or new ways of doing things demonstrated by colorful, well-executed quilts. Book proposal guidelines are on our website under the "Authors" tab. We review proposals approximately once a month, except March, April, July and October when our shows keep us out of the office for a week at a time.

As soon as we review your proposal, I'll contact you so there's no waiting and wondering on your part. Please note that proposals should be accompanied by one or two completed representative projects.

One of the great things about quiltmaking is that there's more than one correct way to do almost everything. If you've got a great idea and want to share it with others, consider writing a quilt book. We look forward to seeing what you're thinking!

Shipping Quilts - Revised - A Long Post

2010-02-09T13:51:00.000-06:00

The Previous Post information below was posted on June 19, 2009. So you don't have to click away to find it, it's copied here, along with additional information offered by Pat in Montana, who has 25 years of experience in shipping.

New Entry: When you ship quilts to AQS or when we return quilts to you, we strongly encourage you to request a Signature Required on the box(es).

It need not be an adult signature, but tracking undelivered boxes (which can be late, delivered to the wrong address, picked up by a well-meaning neighbor who promptly forgets to give the box to you, stacked in the shipper's overgoods department, or truly lost) is next to impossible without a signature.

Requesting Delivery Confirmation is another option, but is not as strong a tracking device. Both requests cost a little extra (at this time, UPS charges $3 for Signature Required, $2 for Delivery Confirmation; FedEx charges $3 for Signature Required, nothing for Delivery Confirmation) but are well worth the peace of mind.

Also, read again below the information about insuring your quilts, both from us and from Pat. Experience has taught us to use our company policy (a special fine arts policy) to insure every appraised quilt we send.

Once a quilt leaves our hands and is with a shipper, there is nothing we can do but hold our breath that your quilts arrive safely. And if something does go wrong, there's nothing we can do to help you if all possible precautions haven't been taken.

Encouraging you to be as careful and conservative as possible when shipping and receiving your quilts is our way of thanking you for loaning them to us for shows, books, calendars, magazine articles and marketing.

Previous Post: We know how much your quilts mean to you, so we’ve compiled this checklist of best practices when sending us (or anyone) your quilts.

Mail or ship them to:

(the contact name you were given on your entry form or email)

AQS

5801 Kentucky Dam Road

Paducah, KY 42003

(270) 898-7903

Email a tracking number as soon as you have it and let us know when we should expect your quilts to: Tracey@aqsquilt.com.

If you don't take any other measure suggested here, at least sew a label with, at a minimum, your name, the quilt’s name, and your address and phone number onto each quilt.

For quilts larger than 30" x 30", sew a 4-inch sleeve across the back at the top. Be sure the sleeve is set down far enough not to show above the quilt when hung.

Enclose each quilt in some sort of plastic bag that you can close or tape shut to prevent water damage should the box rip or tear. Ziploc makes large-quilt size bags. Do not use anything that might be mistaken for a trash bag!

Include a color photo of the quilt in the bag with your name and contact information and why you're sending the quilt to us - the name of your proposal, book or magazine article or the contest or event you're entering.

Enclose a packing list with the box that includes your name and contact information and a list of the quilts in the box. Do not include any indications of your quilts’ values.

If you are concerned about insuring your quilts, have them appraised, and use a fine arts rider on your homeowner's insurance rather than buying the shipper's insurance.

Do not pack your quilts too tightly. We have to use a sharp blade to open most boxes and the danger of damaging a quilt stuffed into a container is real. Consider adding a layer of cardboard on top of the bagged quilts as a safety barrier.

Do not indicate anywhere on the outside of the box that it includes quilts. Do not use the word “quilt” anywhere inside or outside, including the shipping label. Use “AQS,“ not “American Quilter’s Society.”

Send your quilts early in the week so they do not sit around a warehouse or loading dock over the weekend, or send them overnight so they arrive here by 2:00 pm CST on a Friday.

If you are sending multiple quilts or multiple boxes of quilts, consider packing them either one quilt to a box and sending them on subsequent days, or put two or three quilts in a box and send the several boxes on subsequent days. This prevents having all of your quilts on the one truck that gets into an accident or burns down in a warehouse fire.

If this seems like overkill, it isn’t. The condition in which many boxes reach us is terrible, and quilts have been known to get wet, become damaged or disappear in transit.

See additional good information about shipping sent in by Pat from Montana below. Thanks, Pat!

We hope you will take these precautions and we look forward to seeing your quilts.

Pat's comment: I just read your article about shipping quilts and I’d like to add some information. (I worked at a major shipping company for over 25 years, over half of which was in the package handling areas).

Do not go cheap on your packing materials, especially the boxes. Corrugated cardboard weakens with use; buy a decent box. Never, ever use masking tape; it is not strong enough to hold the package together. Again, buy some decent shipping tape. No string! It gets caught in conveyors. No brown paper wrap; again it can get caught in conveyors and ripped off.

As you stated, a label should also be inside the package, and I always put mine in a plastic baggie. If the package gets wet, the label will still be readable.

Do not ‘over stuff’ the package – use the right size box. Packages should be able to withstand a four foot drop on the corner of the box without bursting. However, the contents should not shift around in the package. Other packages will probably stacked on top of it, and empty space can cause the package to sag and break open.

Although literally millions of packages are delivered safely and on time each day, there are circumstances beyond the control of anyone that can damage or destroy a package. Remember that the ‘money back guarantee’ or ‘insurance’ will only reimburse you for the cost of shipping and the article. You will have to have proof of value. If something is not replaceable (great grandma’s wedding quilt that has been handed down from generation to generation) do not ship it. There is not a value that can be put on something like that.

Thanks for a great article,

Pat Hierl

Whitefish, MT

National Wear Red Day!

2010-02-04T12:10:00.007-06:00

On Friday, February 5, 2010, Americans nationwide will wear red to show their support for women's heart disease awareness on National Wear Red Day®. Heart disease is the No. 1 health threat for women. Wearing red is a simple, yet powerful way to raise awareness of heart disease and stroke. Join thousands of women, companies and organizations, and cities across America to help support ongoing research and education about women and heart disease. For more information, here is a Google link that will take you to several Web sites.

http://www.google.com/#hl=en&source=hp&q=national+wear+red+day+2010&aq=1p&aqi=n1g-p1g2g-z1g6&oq=national+wea&fp=c5aa4278f68e4a4

Anita Shackelford in the Limelight

2010-02-04T09:43:00.000-06:00

AQS author Anita Shackelford will be the cover quilter and featured artist in the March issue of Machine Quilting Unlimited. There will be a sidebar about quilting with kids, a great tie-in for her recent book with co-author (and daughter) Jennifer Perdue: Teens 'n Tweens: Quilting Fun with Family and Friends.

In the March/April issue of Quilter's Home, Anita, Jen, and Jen's daughter, Amber, will appear in a story about multi-generational quilting. Keeping quilting alive for the future! That's great news for everyone! Rock on, ladies! AQS# 8026 at www.americanquilter.com or 1-800-626-5420.

Escape from the Quilt Police!

2010-02-04T09:31:00.000-06:00

If you've ever longed to break free from traditional quiltmaking but weren't sure how to begin, Kathryn Schmidt's brand-new book, Rule-Breaking Quilts, is for you.

Using just six fat quarters and two simple cutting techniques, she guides you towards making unique, highly personal quilts that just don't follow the usual rules.

Her graphic, dynamic quilts are wonderful, the suggestions are fun, and the work can be as fast as you like or lead to lots of design contemplation. It's your choice, because there are no rules! And as she emphasizes, you cannot make a mistake with this style of quiltmaking.

If fat quarters leap into your shopping bag, here's a no-fail way to use them most effectively.

Loosen up your "by the book" mode and buy this book so you, too, can make rule-breaking quilts! AQS # 8150 (www.americanquilter.com or 1-800-626-5420.

A personal note: We not only publish but read a LOT of quiltmaking books day in and day out. None have spoken to me about taking off in a new direction like Kathy's book. If you want something a little different, I think you'll love Kathy's approach.

What You Can Do For Haiti

2010-02-03T11:42:00.000-06:00

DONATIONS FOR HAITI

Paducah, Kentucky – February 3, 2010: Our hearts and prayers go out to those who are suffering in the wake of the devastating earthquake in Haiti. All of us want to do anything and everything we can to help. Since we are quiltmakers, our first inclination is to gather our fabric and thread and make a quilt. Though beautiful and comforting, a quilt may not be a practical donation for this tropical country at this time.

In all the reports we are hearing from Haiti, the most immediate requests are for water, food, and medical supplies. Organizations presently in Haiti are in a position to assess the most critical needs and they suggest that monetary donations are the best alternative so they can more easily fill these needs.

We would like to encourage you to make a monetary donation to a reputable organization of your own choosing so the people of Haiti can receive the assistance they desperately need. Be sure to choose an organization that has an excellent reputation for providing assistance during natural disasters. This will ensure your donation will go where it is needed and not be misdirected. Thank you, quilters, for your generosity.
By Sylvia Thomas

Everybody's Working for the Weekend

2010-02-01T08:37:00.001-06:00

Here's the perfect antidote to the Monday morning blues...a new book from AQS meant specifically to use on weekends! Or any day you have an hour to spare!

In Weekend Quilts Judy Laquidara has created 16 easy, colorful quilts that are a joy to make and use. The great thing is, she wrote the instructions for each quilt in one hour segments, and none take longer than a weekend to piece!

If you're a quilter who has to find bits and pieces of time for your passion, this is the book for you. Judy's tips on getting the most done in an hour spent quilting will work for anyone. And she even includes time-saving recipes so you're not stuck in the kitchen.

A real bonus in this book is Judy's knack for interesting borders. Never make a ho-hum quilt again, and get lots more done with Weekend Quilts! Order it (AQS #8149) on the web or by calling 800-626-5420.

Great Start to 2010

2010-01-14T08:48:00.008-06:00

Nothing sparks inspiration like a new quilt book, and AQS has just released four great titles.

So many quilters kept asking her for an updated book, Gwen Marston has authored Liberated Quiltmaking II. It is much more than a revision of the 1996 book, Liberated Quiltmaking, which revolutionized the way many quilters approach design and construction. Indeed, this new volume (AQS #8147) includes her own and student examples of nine liberated processes evolved and compiled over the past 16 years. Terrific writing from Gwen, as always, and beautiful eye candy. LQII will be just as timeless as LQ, which has become expensive over the years, so buy it now.

Kimberly Einmo has put a happy, fresh spin on ways to use the pre-cut fabric bundles that are so very hot these days. Convenience and time-saving don't have to mean lack of dynamic design, as she aptly demonstrates in Jelly Roll Quilts & More. There are fourteen projects plus fun ideas for hosting a pre-cuts party with your quilting friends. AQS #8146

People who love richly decorated letters and flowing applique designs will be enchanted by Beautiful Alphabet Applique by Zena Thorpe. Based on her multiple award-winning quilt, Illuminated Alphabet, the book includes designs for 26 letters; alternate designs for L, O, V and E; four corner patterns; and a sashing design. Any of these lovely elements may be used separately to enhance other pieced or appliqued projects. AQS #8148

A different style and different technique separates Teri Henderson Tope's Applique in Reverse from other applique books. This one is great for beginners who worry about handling small pieces of fabric. Teri's method produces fine-looking results and her style is almost whimsical, sort of a happy look at the art nouveau style. Easily adaptable to other projects, there are 13 block and 2 border patterns that can be made into one gorgeous quilt. AQS #8151

May your Happy New Year be one of inspired stitching fueled by a book from AQS! Go to www.americanquilter.com to order or call us at 1-800-626-5420.

Perfect Timing

2009-12-28T14:33:00.009-06:00

Every once in a while you do better than good when it comes to giving the perfect gift; you hit a grand slam.

That's what happened in my family this Christmas. I gave a Janome AQS-2009 25th Anniversary sewing machine to my 20-year old nephew. I just had a feeling that this creative, artistic kid would take to it like a duck to water, and he did! I was counting on his interests in air brush painting (art), welding (using his hands) and cooking (following directions but with flexibility) to give him a "Try anything! Try everything!" approach, and boy-oh-boy, was I spot on.

I wrapped all the family gifts in fabric secured with straight pins and bundled the leftovers for a "starter stash." He was fondling fabric all day! (And the rest of the gang enjoyed the fabric, too.) I also gave him a craft organizer; a rotary cutting mat, cutter and ruler; neutral thread; and pins. Told him to buy his own scissors as these are highly personal tools people are fussy about.

We spent a couple of hours getting him acquainted with the machine, which is a nifty little gem, lightweight enough for classes and retreats, if he goes that route. He's got enough to get started playing around with the machine, making a sampler of stitches he likes and seeing what that baby can do.

He may never make a quilt or use the machine in typical ways - whatever those are - and that will be fine. He will have a blast using yet another set of tools and techniques to learn new skills to unleash even more creativity and imagination.

I may never again find as perfect a gift as this one, and that's OK; it really was the highlight of the holiday for me. I imagine all of us have some wonderful "first" memories related to quilting. Feel free to share those here!

Keeping Secrets and Great Gift Ideas

2009-12-14T10:35:00.005-06:00

If this is the season for sharing, as noted in the most recent post, it's also a doozy for keeping secrets -- or trying to! Just as you can be thrilled to have finished a quilted gift and can't wait to see someone receive it, we are delighted about what's ahead for AQS book releases.

But I can't give the details!! Except to say that in January and February (and through the Spring) we will have wonderful new books available you are sure to love. And we're working now on books for next Fall. This is such an exciting time of year -- if you can stand the wait!

Throughout the year we are happy to receive book proposals (and American Quilter and The Quilt Life, respectively, are happy to receive article proposals). Look under the "Authors" tab at www.americanquilter.com for proposal guidelines. If you have any questions, as always, please don't hesitate to get in touch.

Now is absolutely the best time to give or request a book from AQS. Our list of titles contains a wonderful array from hand work and history to machine work and contemporary. AQS merchandise is perfect for showing off how you really feel about quilting. And what about giving someone a multi-day admission to an AQS show! Not sure what the quilter on your list would like? You can purchase a gift certificate in any amount online or by calling Karen at 1-800-626-5420.

Whatever you do, enjoy the sharing of the season, try to keep your secrets (!), and give a gift from AQS to a quilter you love.

Sharing Season

2009-11-30T10:32:00.004-06:00

No matter who you are or where you come from, it's hard not to celebrate something or other this time of year. For many of us, part of the festivities include making and sharing quilt-related gifts. Here at AQS we are lucky enough to see some of the best quilts in the world on a regular basis. You get to see them, too, if you come to one of our four shows (Lancaster, Paducah, Knoxville and Des Moines). We also love to see projects made from our books or American Quilter magazine. Perpetuate the season of giving by sharing photos of your work with us! Email good quality, high resolution jpeg files to andi@aqsquilt.com along with a sentence or two about the quilt/project.

Patchwork, Gardens and Thanks!

2009-11-12T09:53:00.011-06:00

Look what came in while we were having a great show in Des Moines! Kathleen Hulett's Patchwork 4 Ways is perfect for piecers. Using four blocks -- Star, Log Cabin, Stripe and Snow Goose -- she shows how to create one-, two-, three-, or four-block quilts. This book is perfect for beginners and classes and would be great inspiration for a round robin project. (AQS # 8027)

The designs in Garden Nouveau Quilts were inspired by the nature surrounding Vicky Lawrence's farmhouse, but she used her artistic flair to tweak them into elegant designs reminiscent of the Art Nouveau era. Appliquers will love the way these flowers can be changed and re-arranged. A special treat for experienced quilters is the miniature version of the Nouveau Fleur quilt, Little Vicky. (AQS # 8031)

Many of us are short on time but long on gratitude for the others in our lives. When you want to say thanks for a special occasion or good deed, use Small Quilts, Big Events from Julia LaBauve and Tammy Silvers. Their no-fuss piecing and fused applique patterns combine batiks and wool for a big impact with a minimal time investment in these 15" x 16" beauties. Show how you feel! Make someone a small quilt for a big event. (AQS # 8030)

Congratulations to The Quilt Patch

2009-11-04T08:14:00.015-06:00

Congratulations to Leslie Pfeifer, owner of The Quilt Patch in Fairfax, VA, who won this beautiful raffle quilt displayed at the AQS Quilt Market booth.

Quilt: Seaworld Magic
The quilt blocks are from two AQS books:
Beyond the Block by Linda K. Johnson & Jane K. Wells and Square Magic Quilts by Michele J. Linder. Pieced by Linda Baxter Lasco; quilted by Pam Heavrin.

International Quilt Market Update

2009-10-23T15:38:00.031-05:00

Oh what fun we had at Quilt Market! This is the fall wholesale trade show where we get to show our new AQS publications to the retail shops...and see what is new for the coming season from fabric companies to notions. The colors are yummy and can't wait to make something fun with them.
That's me, Marge Boyle - Director of Sales, arriving the first day of the show and the booth looks great decorated with quilts from many of our books.

This is Jan Magee, the editor of The Quilt Life, with Meredith Schroeder the first day of the show. AQS was proud to introduce our new magazine with Ricky Tims and Alex Anderson at Quilt Market. The Quilt Life is scheduled to premiere in April 2010 with six issues per year.

This is the morning of the first day of the show and shops were eager to see what was new.

Chrystal Abhalter, our copy editor, is busy taking an order. Chrystal can hardly wait to buy some of the fabric she saw at the show. She's already planning several projects.

Nadine Ruggules was on hand to show her Inchie Quilts and the shops loved them!

We were delighted to have Alex Anderson in our booth talking to the shops about the magazine.

Ricky Tims was also there during the show but I didn't have my camera out...next time.

An advertiser in the American Quilter magazine stopped to see Gloria Bolden, our Advertising Manager. Her smile lights up the show.

Next week the whole gang will be in Des Moines! Come on over and check out the new products!!

Quilting in a Slow Economy

2009-10-22T11:14:00.005-05:00

A recent article on Yahoo! Finance pointed out what most of us already know -- we're staying closer to home for fun and creativity these days. Quilting may have a reputation as being the original "make it with leftovers" art, craft and hobby, but here's something to consider: it's not a $3 billion business per year for nothing.

The fabric companies, especially, drive the rest of the quilt industry, so if you're quilting only from your stash, you might be putting the squeeze on your local quilt shops and online vendors during this recession.

To keep fresh ideas and products flowing among manufacturers and retailers, there has to be demand. If your budget allows, spend something -- anything -- on your quilting and make product and class requests. Your quilting needs have translated into some of the most astonishing developments since the mid-1970s, and now's not the time to quit!

Hope to see you all at the upcoming Des Moines show, shopping up a storm!

2009-10-16T15:33:00.012-05:00

Step-by-step instructions for adding a sleeve:

1. Cut the sleeve 8½" wide x the exact width of your quilt. Fold the ends in twice (¼" and ¼" again) to finish each end of the sleeve. Stitch using a scant ¼" seam allowance. Press the long sides of the sleeve so they meet in the center. It helps to fold the sleeve in half lengthwise first and press to give you a center crease. When you press the sides to the center, you’ll press those creases out – they just give an easy guide without measuring or marking.

2. Fold right sides together and stitch ¼" seam on the long edge of the sleeve. Turn the sleeve right-side out.

3. You may need to repress the fold lines – you’ll need those for attaching the sleeve to your quilt. This is the step that provides the give needed in the sleeve.

4. Center the sleeve across the width of your quilt. The edge of the sleeve should lie just inside your binding on each side of the quilt. Using the fold, pin your sleeve in place ½" to ¾" from the top outside edge on the back of the quilt. This spacing is needed so the sleeve will not show after it is hung.

5. Pin the top of the sleeve along the fold and blindstitch in place. Use the opposite fold line to pin the bottom edge of the sleeve in place; blindstitch to the quilt. The sleeve will fit flat against the quilt from fold line to fold line; the rest of the sleeve will cup out giving enough play in the fabric to hold the hanging device (rod) without damaging the sleeve.

Congratulations AQS Authors - Houston Winners!

2009-10-14T09:04:00.008-05:00

Congratulations to Paducah's own Caryl Bryer Fallert for winning Best of Show at the IQA 2009 show in Houston! She is shown above left with a corner of "On the Wings of a Dream," a self-portrait that garnered Caryl the $10,000 top prize, sponsored by Handi-Quilter.

In addition, Caryl won first place in the Digital Imagery Category sponsored by C&T Publishing for "Watch Master," a tribute to her father. Her book, Caryl Bryer Fallert: A Spectrum of Quilts 1983-1995, is out of print, but Fallert's Guide to Images on Fabric in the AQS Quilt Savvy series is still available (item# 6413). Way to go, Caryl!

Susan Stewart of Pittsburgh, Kansas, is pictured next to her mother, above right. Mom is calling the folks back home to announce that Susan and Gloria Meyer won 1st place in the Computer-aided Machine Embroidery category sponsored by Oklahoma Embroidery Supply & Design for "Gloria's Garden." Susan's book, Heirloom Machine Sewing for Quilters, came out in 2008 (item#7495). Congratulations, Susan!

Thanks to Chris Brown, editor of American Quilter for those on-the-scene photos from Houston.

Another AQS author who won at Houston was Sarah Ann Smith of Camden, Maine. Her Thread Work Unraveled just came out (#8029) and she taught a Schoolhouse session and signed books at the AQS booth during market. Her "Fields of Gold" took 2nd place in the Art-Miniature category sponsored by Quilting Arts magazine. We had this beautiful piece in our offices while we edited Sarah's book; now wonder it won an award!

Zena Thorpe's AQS book, Beautiful Alphabet Applique, is due out in January (#8148). It is based on her "Illuminated Alphabet", which won 3rd place in the Innovative Applique category sponsored by EZ Quilting by Simplicity Creative Group. This quilt is stunning and the workmanship impeccable; we never got over it while it was with us. Congratulations, Zena (who is from Chatsworth, California)!

Due out next Spring is 100 Sweet Treats by and for Quilters (#8156) by Ann Hazelwood of St. Charles, Missouri. Two of the contributors to her book were winners in Houston: Annette Hendricks of Grayslake, Illinois, won the Judge's Choice award from Sue Nickels -- also an AQS author -- for "Hide N Seek (Now where did that mousie go?)." This award was sponsored by Jackie's Animas Quilts. Annette's recipe is for Lemon Poppy Seed Cake. Sue's books include Stitched Raw Edge Applique (#6897), Machine Applique: A Sampler of Techniques (#5855) and Machine Quilting: A Primer of Techniques (#6299). Another 'Sweet Treats' winning contributor was Nancy Brown of Oakland, California. Her recipe is Mother's Cocoa Delight, which should pair perfectly with her 3rd place winning quilt, "Pup Art," in the Art-Whimsical category sponsored by Quiltmaker.

If we missed anyone, let us know! We are so excited for these AQS authors and contributors and all the winners at every quilt show. And we're grateful to the sponsors who make these awards possible.

Enjoy The Quilt Life!

2009-10-06T09:02:00.003-05:00

AQS is delighted to announce a new magazine -- The Quilt Life -- with Ricky Tims and Alex Anderson!!
Read all about this great new addition to the AQS line of services and products for today's quilter at www.americanquilter.com!

Fall for These New Books!

2009-09-28T13:00:00.010-05:00

Just in time for cooler weather and more time spent quilting are two new books from AQS.

Sarah Ann Smith has written a wonderful resource book on that most essential of quilting elements, thread. Not at all a dry, dusty treatise, this beautiful book is a great read with interesting projects to keep your thread knowledge at the top of the game. You may stand in awe in front of thread displays in the future, but it won't be because you don't know what you're looking at if you read Sarah's book, Threadwork Unraveled. AQS # 8029

If you love to piece you will love Donna Poster's book, Block Beauty. Much like quilters two, three or more generations back, Donna is happiest when she's working with a familiar shape but creating new designs with it. Each of five shapes - Rail Fence, X-Quisite, Texas Trellis, Peak and Drunkard's Path - is shown in four designs and seven possible quilt sizes with multiple border options. Talk about a resource book! Twenty quilts and "doodle corners" included so you can keep going with simple shapes that make fabulous quilts. AQS # 8023

Both books are available at www.americanquilter.com or 1-800-626-5420.

Interview Delay

2009-09-21T20:05:00.005-05:00

The interview scheduled with Kimberley Wulfert of www.womenonquilts.com has been cancelled for tonight. Atmospheric conditions, would you believe! We will re-schedule a time for you all to call in and talk with me about all things AQS and books. Until then, Andi Reynolds, executive book editor.

Quilt Care and Labels

2009-09-18T11:17:00.006-05:00

Somewhere along my quilting journey I became interested in quilt care. If we want to preserve our quilts and prolong their lives, there are simple steps everyone can take. I've boiled best practices down to a manageable quilt label size and sew the following label to every bed-use quilt. As always, if you have something to add or suggest, please do! There is more to quilt care than these bare-bones instructions can cover and it's always good to know more.

Quilt Care

To air a quilt, lay it outside on the grass between two white sheets for a few hours. Don’t drape it over a fence or hang it from a line.

If dusty, put the quilt on the dryer’s gentle cycle with no heat for two or three minutes. No fabric softener. Dust is bad for fibers, so this is OK to do occasionally.

Ignore little stains; the treatment is usually worse for the quilt. Treat obvious stains with an oxygen-based spray cleaner. Spot treat and rinse if possible.

Machine wash the entire quilt only when airing, fluffing and spot treating are not enough. Wash it alone. Use cold water and the delicate cycle, a very small amount of unscented gentle detergent, and no fabric softener. Use an extra rinse only if very soiled. Choose the most gentle spin cycle.

The quilt is weakest and most subject to damage when wet, so remove it from the washer carefully; do not let it hang or pull on it. The wet quilt will be heavy, so use a carrying basket or have help. Dry it flat between two white sheets. Pat it flat; don’t pull or stretch. Fans speed the drying process.

When not in use, storing the quilt flat on a bed is best, face down to prevent even indirect light from fading the fabric. Close curtains, blinds or shades as much as practical when the quilt is in use.

If the quilt is stored folded, use acid-free paper to stuff the folds and keep the quilt in an acid-free box. Folding on the bias is best; it won’t be nice and neat but it’s better for the quilt. Re-fold differently every three months to prevent creasing. Replace acid-free materials after five years.

Hear Ye! Hear Ye!

2009-09-18T09:58:00.008-05:00

This Monday, September 21, at 8 pm EST, quilt researcher and historian Kimberly Wulfert will interview me, Andi Reynolds, AQS executive book editor. Kimberly provides a format that includes a phone number so people can call in with questions. Very 21st century! Check her website between now and then for details including the number to call: www.womenonquilts.blogspot.com and also because it is a wonderful resource for anyone interested in women, quilting, history and culture. I might talk about Carolina Roses, the quilt shown here. Sixteen years in the making, all by hand, it is an anniversary gift for my parents. Glad they stayed together while I was making it... The interview will stay active indefinitely, so you may access it when it's convenient.

Denim Dynamite!

2009-09-17T12:01:00.010-05:00

Look what the Denim Divas, Laurie Malm and Cheri Meineke-Johnson have done!

They've taken two favorite projects from the 2008 AQS show in Des Moines, where they debuted the Dressed-up Denim fashion show, which was a blast!, and put them into this nifty 6-page project booklet.

Now you, too, can add bling and embroidery to glamorize your denim and look like a diva. And if you can't get enough denim in your life, join Laurie and Cheri in Des Moines at the AQS show this October 28 - 31. They will have another Denim Divas Fashion Show on Thursday, the 29th! If you can't wait until then, order their Dressed-Up Denim project booklet from AQS online www.americanquilter.com, item # 8135, or call toll-free, 800-626-5420.

Show Us Your Stuff!

2009-09-15T11:02:00.004-05:00

Fairly often we receive nice notes or letters from quilters who have made one or more projects from our books. How much fun it would be to share these, especially the occasional photos we receive!

If you've made a quilt or project from an AQS book, think about sending it to us so we can post it on this blog. It might also end up on our Facebook page and in our coming-soon e-letter! A jpeg with a resolution of 300 for an image 3" x 4" would be great.

Email the evidence of your creativity to editor@aqsquilt.com, and thanks for sharing!

Paducah 2010 is On!

2009-09-04T14:24:00.002-05:00

Here's the latest news about the AQS Quilt Show in Paducah...

Press Release

American Quilter’s Society
Finalizes Plans for Paducah Quilt Show

Contact: Bonnie Browning, 270-898-7903, ext. 146
bonniebrowning@AQSquilt.com

Paducah, Kentucky – September 4, 2009: The American Quilter’s Society announced that contracts have been finalized with hotels and convention facilities for the 26th Annual AQS Quilt Show & Contest in Paducah, to be held April 21 – 24, 2010. The Executive Inn attached to the convention center is now closed and will not be available during the April show.

The quilt show will be held at the Paducah Expo Center, the Julian Carroll Convention Center, and the new AQS Pavilion which will be located in the parking lot of the convention facilities. Quilt show admission will give access to viewing quilts and shopping the merchant malls in all three locations. Additional vendors and the AQS “Hurt” Book Sale will be held at the AQS Vendors on Kentucky in the Finkel Building (200 Kentucky Avenue in downtown Paducah). Special events will be held in the Carson Four Rivers Center (100 Kentucky Avenue).

The 2010 AQS Quilt Contest will award $125,000 in cash awards to quilters. Contest rules are available on the AQS Web site, www.AmericanQuilter.com. The registration guide will be available in early November. To order a printed registration guide, send $2.00 for each guide to: AQS, Attn: (name of show) Registration Guide, PO Box 3290, Paducah, KY 42002-3290.

For lodging, please contact the Paducah Visitors Bureau at www.paducah.travel, or 1-800-PADUCAH. The AQS Home Bed & Breakfast program will be coordinated by the Visitors Bureau, starting February 1, 2010.

Tour groups can contact Marcelle Cashon or Laura Davis for information on admission and ticket sales for the AQS Quilt Show & Contest by calling 270-898-7903.

In addition to the AQS Quilt Show in Paducah, AQS will produce three other international quilt shows in 2010: Lancaster, Pennsylvania, March 24 – 27; Knoxville, Tennessee, July 14 – 17; and Des Moines, Iowa, October 6 – 9.

The AQS quilting community grows again! Quilters can now become fans of AQS on Facebook, and follow AQS on Twitter. Quilting information is also always available on the AQS Web site and the AQS Blogs (AQS Quilt News, AQS Publishing, and American Quilter Magazine).

###

Congratulations Sue and Pat!

2009-09-04T08:48:00.011-05:00

AQS authors Pat Holly and Sue Nickels have won a major prize for their Tea at Tenby quilt. Exhibited at the Festival of Quilts Show in Birmingham, England, this beauty won First Place in the Group Quilts category. (Photo courtesy of the Festivals web site: http://skyequilters.wordpress.com/2009/08/25/festival-of-quilts-2009/ )

These sisters teamed up to co-author Stitched Raw Edge Applique (AQS #6897), and Sue wrote Machine Applique: A Sampler of Techniques (out of print) and Machine Quilting: A Primer of Techniques (AQS #6299).

We are delighted to have these talented, creative quilters as authors and teachers. Congratulations, Pat and Sue!

Extra! Extra! Read All About It!

2009-08-24T14:15:00.003-05:00

We are updating our web site and plan to add a weekly or bi-weekly newsletter very soon. Current authors and soon-to-be authors (under contract) are invited to email whatever is latest and greatest about your quiltmaking career to appear in the newsletter.

Have you won a teaching award? Landed a great lecture gig? Had your work accepted in an exhibit or gallery? Revamped your web site? Have a book signing or TV stint planned? Let me know and we'll help you promote yourself by putting your news in our newsletter.

Send your tidbits to editor@aqsquilt.com. And congratulations on whatever nifty something has happened!

Lancaster or Bust!

2009-08-21T08:46:00.003-05:00

AQS is delighted to announce our new show in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Join us there next March 24 - 27 in a great facility in a wonderful tourism area.

The Quilter's Heritage Show is no more, and we really wanted to continue the support and enthusiasm for quilting longstanding in Lancaster, so we'll be there with bells on!

Plans for the Paducah 2010 show are pending while space issues are being resolved.

But there will be AQS in Lancaster! Hope to see you there!

More on Shipping Quilts: Insurance and Appraisals

2009-08-19T09:55:00.006-05:00

Getting Your Quilts Appraised: Why Insuring Your Quilt During Shipment May Not Be Enough

(See the first blog post about shipping in the June 2009 archives)

If you are concerned about protecting the value of your quilts, have them appraised, and use a fine arts rider on your home owner's insurance rather than buying the shipper's insurance. If you can’t use your home owner’s insurance, shipping insurance is fine as long as you have an appraisal.

The reason for this is simple. Major carriers (UPS, FedEx, etc.) will gladly allow you to place any value on your shipment and charge you accordingly. However, if your shipment becomes damaged or is lost, things get a little complicated.

Example: Jane Doe ships her quilt across four states using one of the major carriers. Somewhere in transit the package suddenly falls off the map. Tracking shows it got half-way there and then nothing has happened for several days. Jane promptly contacts the carrier and has a trace placed on the shipment. The carrier calls in a few days and says the package has been determined to be lost or stolen.

Jane then begins the process of making a claim on the package. The carrier’s first question will be whether the package was insured. Jane breathes a sigh of relief because she had conscientiously placed an insurance value of $2,000 on the package. The carrier then asks Jane if she had an appraisal on the item. Jane responds that she did not. The carrier then tells her that they will only refund her the cost of the materials used to make the quilt. Her time, artistic ability, past quality of work, etc., are all inconsequential without the written appraisal.

This is why insurance may not be enough, and it is very important to have a certified appraiser do an appraisal of your quilt. What you will pay for an appraisal is a relatively small amount of money to protect your art.

For more information about appraisals, go to
http://www.americanquilter.com/about_aqs/appraisal_program.php.

The Next Quilting Generation Has Their Own Book!

2009-08-18T11:32:00.019-05:00

Anita Shackelford and her daughter, Jennifer Perdue, have written a charming book called Teens N Tweens; Quilting Fun with Family and Friends.

The home dec, fashion accessories and quilt projects were designed mostly by Anita and Jen but were made by kids ages 4 (4!) to 17. Absolutely adorable, fresh and fun, these projects can be made by non-sewers with adult guidance as well as kids who know their way (a little bit) around a sewing machine.

The instructions are super-easy to follow, and most projects can easily be made in one or two days. How much fun to make a three-pocket pouch, a DVD carrier, a laptop cover, a ruched table skirt, a BFF pillow or a message board! And what about making a stylin' poncho, a wall hanging or even an appliqued or pieced bed quilt!

If you have kids or grandkids and want to share your love of sewing and quilting with them, this is THE book to have. Make one of these projects or take inspiration from their ideas and fly with your own! Ask for item #8026 at 1-800-626-5420 or order from our website: www.americanquilter.com .

Send in the Clowns!

2009-08-10T14:28:00.007-05:00

Clowns on Parade by Cathy Wiggins has just arrived-- what a bright, cheery book!

It's a natural for clown lovers and collectors, and the machine applique and embellishment instruction is great for quilters of any skill level.

In addition to a large, bed-size quilt, Cathy includes ways to put clowns on a generous tote bag and a clever growth chart. Want more clowns? Make either the small or the large floor pillows shaped like clowns doing handstands!

You might have seen this happy quilt hanging in a regional or national quilt show. Now you can have clowns parading through your own home! AQS item # 8028 on our web site, www.americanquilter.com, or call 1-800-626-5420.

Knoxville - Great City, Great Show!

2009-07-31T10:53:00.004-05:00

We hosted our first AQS Quilt Expo in Knoxville July 22-25 in the great city of Knoxville. The citizens outdid themselves with friendliness and hospitality. They even had a business-window-dressing-with-quilts contest while we were there!

The Knoxville Convention Center is a wonderful facility, the concession food was *good* (!) and the nearby hotels very nice. Oh yes -- the quilts were magnificent and there were enough vendors to melt anyone's plastic. The teachers, lecturers and special events were all first class. It's unusual for a show to go off without a hitch, especially a new show in a new town and venue, but ours did, and everyone involved had a fun time. We're looking forward to three more years, at least, in East Tennessee.

We actively try to meet potential authors at our shows and talk about new book ideas. I give a lecture on what it is like to publish with AQS, which people say is informative and helpful. Join us in Des Moines for "Putting Pen to Paper: Publishing with AQS." The Des Moines registration guide is available online at www.americanquilter.com.

Some very creative people discussed some excellent ideas in Knoxville. If you weren't there and think you might want to write a book with AQS, look for our book proposal guidelines under the "Authors" tab on our home page. Send completed proposals with two or three finished, representative projects to: Andi Reynolds, Executive Book Editor, AQS, 5801 Kentucky Dam Road, Paducah, KY 42003 (270-898-7903).

We look forward to seeing what you're creating!

Put Some Magic in Your Quilts!

2009-07-31T10:33:00.006-05:00

Hot off the press, we are proud to announce the arrival of Michelle Linder's book, Square Magic!

Michelle has devised an ingenious way to transform a plain square into hundreds of different blocks. Simple straight piecing and clever color use transform the ordinary into extraordinary.

Even better, she explains how to perform her magic with 3", 2" and 1" squares so you can work with a size you like.

As a bonus, after you trim to get the block you're going for, you've automatically created a miniature version of the same block!

Seeing is believing how amazingly simple but effective her technique is. And the 12 projects in Square Magic offer lots of placement and color options, border choices and more. Try it for yourself and you'll become addicted to using Michelle's method in all of your pieced quilts because it's -- magic!

AQS item # 8024 on our website, www.americanquilter.com or 1-800-626-5420.

Get Stylin' with Ease!

2009-07-15T15:58:00.006-05:00

Look what just arrived! Fran Morgan's latest AQS book is Stylish Sweatjackets. Fran leads the design work at Fabric Cafe (www.fabriccafe.com) and is well known for her fresh, happy look. She's done it again here as she shows how to take off-the-rack sweatshirts and turn them into custom-fitted jackets suitable for any occasion. This book is geared to sewers of any age and experience and would be a great mother/daughter effort: first, you shop, then you sew! The techniques are straightforward and can be mixed and matched to meet your own personal style. Enjoy looking great on a budget and staying warm to boot. AQS item # 8025 on the website: www.americanquilter.com or 1-800-626-5420.

Don't Miss Out!

2009-07-14T08:56:00.004-05:00

AQS's first show in Knoxville, Tennessee will be fantastic. Along with amazing quilts, excellent teachers and exciting vendors, there is the beauty of Knoxville and all that city has to offer, show specials, and opportunities to meet the individuals who make the quilt world so special -- including some of our authors!

Come meet Pam Clarke, Pepper Cory, Margie Engel, Rita Fishel, Klaudeen Hansen, Sandy Hart & Gudny Campbell, Deb Karasik, Rami Kim, Ann Lainhart, Laura Patrick & Ed Ditto, Marsha Radtke, Sharon Sebrow, Lynda Smith, Helen Squire and Alice Wilhoit.

See the blog for June 10, 2009 for the book titles, or search our website: www.americanquilter.com. Autographed books increase in value and they're just special, so treat yourself at the AQS Book Fair, Thursday, July 23, 4:30 pm - 6:00 pm outside the Lecture Hall (and just before a special evening with Eleanor Burns!).

And if you think you might want to become an author yourself, there's a lecture just for you: Writing a Quilt Book: The Reality Show, Thursday, July 23, from 4 to 5 pm.

See you in Knoxville! Let's make quilt history!

AQS Author is HMQS Teacher of the Year!

2009-07-02T13:14:00.009-05:00

Congratulations to Pam Clarke, author of Quilting Inside the Lines: Machine & Frame Quilting! She has been named the 2009 Teacher of the Year by the Home Machine Quilting Show. Pam was honored for the marvelous level of professionalism, talent, and expertise she has offered her students.

Pam is a dynamo in the quilting world – in her professional longarm quilting business she has quilted over 7,000 quilts! A quilter since 1970, and a longarm quilter since 1988, she continues to teach machine quilting, piecing, and appliqué classes at venues and shows across the country.

Pam is teaching at the AQS Quilt Expo in Knoxville, TN, July 22-25. To sign up for a class call AQS at 270-898-7903.

Margie Engel, also an AQS author, won the PQA Teacher of the Year Award! Her post is dated March 25, 2009. Congratulations to both!

Shipping News

2009-06-19T14:41:00.015-05:00

This box was not only ripped front and back, it was open when it arrived. The plastic shopping bags loosely wrapped around the quilt had come apart, leaving the quilt exposed and vulnerable to theft and damage.

Sending quilts to shows or publishers can be scary, for the quilter and the recipient. The horror stories you may have heard about quilts being lost, stolen or damaged are most likely true. This is one time when overdoing the safety angle makes excellent sense. We've written up the best practices in shipping quilts, so our authors and contestants can rest assured their treasures arrive at AQS safely. If you have additional suggestions, we'd love to hear them and will pass them on.

AQS Shipping Information

We know how much your quilts mean to you, so we’ve compiled this checklist of best practices when sending us (or anyone) your quilts.

Mail or ship them to:

(the contact name you were given on your entry form or email)
AQS
5801 Kentucky Dam Road
Paducah, KY 42003
(270) 898-7903

Email a tracking number as soon as you have it and let us know when we should expect your quilts to: Tracey@aqsquilt.com.

If you don't take any other measure suggested here, at least sew a label with, at a minimum, your name, the quilt’s name, and your address and phone number onto each quilt.

For quilts larger than 30” x 30”, sew a 4-inch sleeve across the back at the top. Be sure the sleeve is set down far enough not to show above the quilt when hung.

Enclose each quilt in some sort of plastic bag that you can close or tape shut to prevent water damage should the box rip or tear. Ziploc makes large-quilt size bags. Do not use anything that might be mistaken for a trash bag!

Include a color photo of the quilt in the bag with your name and contact information and why you're sending the quilt to us - the name of your proposal, book or magazine article or the contest or event you're entering.

Enclose a packing list with the box that includes your name and contact information and a list of the quilts in the box. Do not include any indications of your quilts’ values.

If you are concerned about insuring your quilts, have them appraised, and use a fine arts rider on your home owner's insurance rather than buying the shipper's insurance.

Do not pack your quilts too tightly. We have to use a sharp blade to open most boxes and the danger of damaging a quilt stuffed into a container is real. Consider adding a layer of cardboard on top of the bagged quilts as a safety barrier.

Do not indicate anywhere on the outside of the box that it includes quilts. Do not use the word “quilt” anywhere inside or outside, including the shipping label. Use “AQS,“ not “American Quilter’s Society.”

Send your quilts early in the week so they do not sit around a warehouse or loading dock over the weekend, or send them overnight so they arrive here by 2:00 pm CST on a Friday.

If you are sending multiple quilts or multiple boxes of quilts, consider packing them either one quilt to a box and sending them on subsequent days, or put two or three quilts in a box and send the several boxes on subsequent days. This prevents having all of your quilts on the one truck that gets into an accident or burns down in a warehouse fire.

If this seems like overkill, it isn’t. The condition in which many boxes reach us is terrible, and quilts have been known to get wet, become damaged or disappear in transit.

See additional good information about shipping sent in by Pat from Montana in the comments section. Thanks, Pat!

We hope you will take these precautions and we look forward to seeing your quilts.

Calling All Groupies!

2009-06-10T11:45:00.008-05:00

If you're a quilter, you've got books, and if you've got books, you probably have a few favorite authors. You can meet your faves during the Book Fair at any AQS show, collect autographs and buy the latest, greatest AQS publications. Here's the author line-up for the AQS Knoxville Quilt Expo July 22-25:

Pepper Cory, Pepper Cory's Quilting Pattern Collection
Margie Engel, Bodacious Applique a la Carte
Rita Fishel, Mystery Quilts
Klaudeen Hansen, Quilt Art Engagement Calendar 2010
Sandy Hart & Gudny Campbell, Piecing with Pixels
Deb Karasik, Quilts with Attitude
Rami Kim, Quilted Elegance
Ann S. Lainhart, Fussy Cut Mariner's Compass
Laura Patrick, Heart for a Hero
Marsha D. Radtke, A Baltimore Album
Florence Riesen, Heirloom Quilted Nursery
Sharon Sebrow, Kaleidoscope the Smart Way
Lynda Smith, Quilt This!
Helen Squire, Quilting UFOs
Alice Wilhoit, Crazy Patchwork

See you in Tennessee!

Being an Author with AQS

2009-06-08T08:35:00.005-05:00

Thankfully, there is more than one correct way to make a quilt and to write the how-to instructions. This has given rise to several major quilt book publishers, and AQS is proud to be among the leaders.

If you're considering authoring a quilt book, this is what you can expect from AQS:

Clear, succinct proposal and manuscript guidelines
A fast consideration of your proposal
Transparency in the publication process
Generous contract terms
A close working relationship with editorial staff and individual attention
Retention of your author's voice; no cookie-cutter books here
Regular contact and communication, from concept through post-publication
Offers to teach at AQS shows once you're published
The opportunity to tape online classes that provide college credit for students
Expansive marketing and advertising efforts and assistance, wholesale and retail
Friendly support and advice every step of the way

We offer a lecture at every AQS show that details what it is like to be published by us. If you're considering writing a how-to quilt book, treat yourself to the facts and join us in Knoxville, July 22-25, for "Writing a Quilt Book: The Reality Show," or Des Moines, October 28-31, for "Putting Pen to Paper: Publishing with AQS." Our proposal guidelines are posted under the "Authors" tab at www.americanquilter.com. And you may always contact us at 270-898-7903 or andi@aqsquilt.com. There are a lot of talented, creative quilters out there! We look forward to hearing from you!

It's Baa-aack!

2009-05-29T12:39:00.003-05:00

Anita Shackelford's very popular book on feather quilting patterns, Infinite Feathers, is back. AQS has reprinted her book due to popular demand. That, and the fact that it's still one of the best how-to-feather-quilt books around. Whether you quilt by hand or machine (of any kind), treat yourself to a wonderful resource by calling 1-800-626-5420. Ask for item # 6072. Also available on CD -- item # 6521.

Inchie Quilts Are in the House!

2009-05-29T11:54:00.007-05:00

What started as a "just between friends" trading card-like pasttime has been turned into a hot new quilting trend. Leading the way is AQS author Nadine Ruggles with her book, Inchie Quilts.

Inchie quilts really are just that - tiny, one-inch square quilts. They are adorable, addictive, and oh-so-fun to embellish! You can make inchies the star of the quilt or use them as accents. They are equally at home on traditional, contemporary and art quilts.

And because Nadine explains how to attach the inchies in a semi-permanent way, you can move them around! She even gives you an Inchies Chess quilt pattern!

You will have hours of fun creating inchies and hours more thinking of creative ways to use them. Enjoy!

Call 1-800-626-5420 to order. Ask for item # 8021.

Quilt Market Update

2009-05-20T13:04:00.017-05:00

Just back from the Spring 2009 Quilt Market trade show only two days and my feet have finally recovered! Wearing sensible shoes is a must to stand on cement with a layer of carpet and walk several miles. So much to see and so little time. Everyday we met many charming retail shops and our major distributors. Our schoolhouses were a huge success with the shops eager to plan classes from all the ideas that the authors provided.

Walking around the show I saw so many exciting new fabrics — jewel tones, bright fun florals, and the cutest animal focus prints everywhere. I loved two of the new notions from Simplicity that will make sewing easier for quilters. My favorite was the electric rotary cutter that cuts strips that can be used for piecing, bias tape and binding. The bias tape maker was so cool, it makes 12’ in 60 seconds! It folds and presses different sizes in one step. Simplicity also has a new Jelly Roll ruler from Kimberly Einmo. Shhhh! She happens to be working on a new book using the ruler for next year. A new quilting glove that was at market for the first time from GrabARoos is great for free-motion quilting. They have PVC dots on the finger tips and when they wear out you turn them over and there are dots there for more sewing! And they come in purple, a favorite color of mine.

The city of Pittsburgh was so welcoming, with friendly people everywhere we went. They were not only excited about the quilters in town — shuttling them around in Trolleys — but they also were the host for five baseball games and the Stanley Cup hockey playoffs. We went by the hockey arena after setting up the booth to see the many fans watching the game on big screens outside and celebrating their victory. Every evening we could see the baseball stadium across the river from the hotel room, and I think I could smell the hot dogs and peanuts, or maybe it was wishful thinking.

Thanks to all the shops that stopped by our booth to share with us what quilting projects they were working on and which AQS books they have in their stores.

Spring Market 2009

2009-05-19T11:14:00.004-05:00

Spring Market 2009 is history. It was the usual colorful, lively, interesting mix of companies, businesses and individuals in the quilt industry. While attendance seemed down, most vendors said they had a good show, which is welcome news for anyone interested in quilting. AQS is certainly pleased with the number of book ideas that came our way. The citizens of Pittsburgh were super friendly, and we could see the Pirates play from the hotel!

We were delighted to have three authors teach during Schoolhouse: Karen Gibbs, whose Bits of Bargello was so hot off the press, she saw it for the first time when her session began!; Terry White, who demonstrated three of the techniques from All Beaded Up by Machine; and Alice Wilhoit, whose Crazy Patchwork projects had the audience oohing and aahing like - well, like crazy! You can learn more about these three new titles on our website's "Buy Books" page and order them by calling 800-626-5420.

What a Show!

2009-04-27T10:54:00.005-05:00

There aren't enough "wows!" to describe the 25th Anniversary Celebration in Paducah last week. From the incredible Best of Show quilt by Mariya Waters of Melbourne, Australia to the excellent entertainment by Ricky Tims, Eleanor Burns, Nancy Zieman and Helen Squire and the hundreds of vendors offering amazing fabrics and helpful tools, it was a fabulous week. Another special event was the Book Fair; 17 authors were on hand to sign their books, and a fun time was had by all.

An AQS show is always a good time to discuss potential book projects, so plan now to bring your ideas and proposals to Knoxville, July 22 - 25 or Des Moines, October 28-31. Of course you can send a completed proposal and one or two representative completed quilts to AQS any time: Attention, Andi Reynolds, Executive Book Editor, 5801 Kentucky Dam Road, Paducah, KY 42003. We look forward to reviewing your fresh, creative approach to quilting today!

Collectible Books

2009-04-16T10:41:00.004-05:00

The annual AQS Catalogue of Show Quilts is here! Whether you attend the 2009 25th anniversary show in Paducah or not, this highly collectible book showcases all of this year's entires in a beautifully formatted presentation. The quilts are shown by contest category with the entry number, quilt title, quilt size, maker's name and maker's location. True keepsakes, these books document the trend in today's quilting world. AQS item #7931.

Another gem of a book is Collection of The National Quilt Museum. Dedicated to the founders of the American Quilter's Society, Bill and Meredith Schroeder, it summarizes the history of the quilt collection that is the nucleus of the museum. Each quilt is shown with a statement from the artist or a summation of their work, to give the reader insight into how these beautiful works of art came to be. Although some of the museum's collection quilts are always on display and rotated, this book is the definitive catalogue and a real photo essay on how quilting has evolved since the early 1980s. A limited print run makes this a book to buy quickly and keep for posterity. AQS item #7933.

Old and New

2009-04-16T10:20:00.005-05:00

AQS's two most recent books span quilting's timeline in America from the very old to the latest rage.

A Baltimore Album: 25 Applique Patterns by Marsha D. Radtke came about serendipitously. Marsha discovered a Baltimore Album quilt in the attic of the rural Maryland parsonage she shared with her husband. On close examination, she realized there were two inked names on the quilt, and they were locally common names. A certified quilt appraiser dated the quilt as circa 1850! This means Marsha found a truly original Baltimore Album quilt in the area this style was created and made popular.

When the old beauty began to deteriorate, she decided to replicate the quilt. Both new and old quilts are shown in the book. The original had 25 blocks, one of which was a duplicate pattern. The color palette is red, green, and gold -- typical of the era. Just as the work on the original was very fine, so is Marsha's rendition.

Baltimore Album and applique lovers will want this book as a library of genuine, dated patterns created near the source of this ever-popular applique style. Ask for AQS item #7927 and enjoy creating a piece of history yourself!

And as time has gone by, quilters now create masterpieces using machines. To help your quilts stand out anywhere, Nan Moore wrote Machine Freehand Patterns. Every one of the 95 pages has one or more machine patterns drawn freehand. You can follow these exactly, shrink them or enlarge them, alter them or use them as inspiration to create your own freehand quilting designs.

Nan provides a very basic guide to using continuous motion patterns - it's almost entirely visual, so if you've wanted to try machine quilting, this could be the very book you're looking for. Her book is AQS item #8022.

Crazy Beautiful!

2009-03-30T14:42:00.004-05:00

Author Alice Wilhoit has brought crazy quilting into the 21st century with our latest book, Crazy Patchwork. She uses batiks to create the foundation blocks, and this makes all the difference!

Forget the dark, heavy look of Victorian crazy quilts; Alice shows you how to create fresh, fun, fabulous quilts, pillows, a fireplace mantle scarf that is to die for, and the perfect gift -- a framed quilt picture.

Her stitching instructions are super easy to follow, and the best part of the book is that she gives you 12 completely different blocks based on the flowers and gem stones associated with birth months. If you're a "findings" collector -- trinket, buttons, laces, trims, broken or mismatched jewelry -- this book is for you.

Alice and her students show you how unique your quilt can be; check out the gallery of their quilts, all made in the same class, and see how different they are. If you already love crazy quilts, you'll love this book's updated look. If you've never tried crazy quilting, this book could be the start of true love affair! Order it at 1-800-626-5420, item # 7926.

AQS Author is Professional Teacher of the Year!

2009-03-25T09:47:00.007-05:00

Congratulations to Margie Engel, author of Bodacious Applique a la Carte (AQS 2008)! She has been named the 2009 Professional Teacher of the Year by Professional Quilter Magazine.

Margie has been teaching, especially in Florida, on cruises, and at retreats, for years. She is especially known for her work encouraging children to learn to quilt through the all-volunteer organization she founded, EduQuilt.

Her enthusiasm is infectious, her ability to make color and design easy to comprehend is amazing, and she's a kind, caring soul. If you can't meet her in person in class at an upcoming AQS show, you can get to know her through her wildly colorful, happy book (item #7769 - 800-626-5420).

July 5, 2009: Breaking news: Pam Clarke, also an AQS author, won the HMQS Teacher of the Year Award! Congratulations, Pam! See the post about her at the July 2 post.

Beautiful Baby Bibs and More!

2009-03-23T11:52:00.004-05:00

Just in time for Spring, Florence Riesen's Heirloom Quilted Nursery is here! Using simple patterns for bibs, bonnets, gowns and quilts, Florence shows you how to completely decorate a nursery and the newest member of your family with heirloom quality machine quilting. Achieve stunning results quickly and easily using her original designs, motifs and alphabets. Although they look precious, these made-to-be-used items can be laundered, and will certainly be beautiful on display, whether on a pretty baby or in a pretty room.

Read This!

2009-03-06T13:41:00.007-06:00

AQS is delighted to announce the release of Deb Karasik's second book, Quilts with Attitude. If you know Deb as a Quilt Maven, you've got the right author. Her work is bold, flamboyant, precise and unmistakable. Use the paper foundation patterns for 13 projects on the included CD to create your own masterpieces in no time flat, or take Deb's approach and endow it with your own attitude. Ask for her book by name or item number 7773 when you call 1-800-626-5420 to order it. Her very singular voice rings out from every page and should make you smile, as the quilts you create from her book will.

Terrific Trio

2009-03-06T10:03:00.005-06:00

Just in time for Spring, AQS is releasing a trio of bright, fresh quilting books. Enjoy!

Quilted Elegance is the second AQS book from award-winning designer Rami Kim. (Her first was Folded Fabric Elegance.) She makes finely sewn, beautifully detailed quilted garments exceptionally elegant and easy to create. Even better, every jacket, vest, pillow and wallhanging is reversible! She even presents matching purses. If dressing in style is your style, use the pattern CD in Rami's book to dress yourself in silk or denim with quilted elegance.

It never fails: Kaleidoscope quilts always have a WOW! factor, but people shy away from making these beauties because they think they're difficult. Fear no more! Author Sharon Sebrow has developed a sure-fire technique with a clever template to make planning and piecing kaleidoscope quilts a breeze. In Kaleidoscope the Smart Way, she also presents different sizes of patterns so you can go large (fast and easy) or larger (faster and easier).

Every year The National Quilt Museum (formerly Museum of the American Quilter's Society, or MAQS) holds the "New Quilts from an Old Favorite Contest," and AQS publishes a book of the winning entries. For 2008, the contest block was Burgoyne Surrounded, and you won't believe how varied the winners' interpretations were. Each winning quilt is presented alongside information about the quilter, her inspiration, and the technique(s) used. Find your own inspiration for developing original designs from traditional blocks in Burgoyne Surrounded: New Quilts from an Old Favorite, edited by AQS senior editor Linda Baxter Lasco. Even better, check out the fourteen preceeding books -- just ask for "New Quilts from an Old Favorite."

To order directly from AQS, call 1-800-626-5420. Item numbers for these books are:
Quilted Elegance, 7925; Kaleidoscope the Smart Way, 7924; Burgoyne Surrounded: New Quilts from an Old Favorite, 7928.

Have Something to Say?

2009-02-27T09:09:00.003-06:00

Did you know you can write a review of any AQS book and post it on our web site (www.americanquilter.com)? It's true! Simply log on, go to that book's detail page, and click on "Write a Review." Reviews are a fun way to connect with other quilters and helpful when someone is looking for that certain book. Let your writer's muse escape and join the fun!

From Across the Atlantic

2009-02-16T09:03:00.004-06:00

AQS is delighted to announce delivery of Quilt the Beloved Country by Jenny Williamson and Pat Parker. These South African sisters co-authored Quilt Africa in 2004, and we were privileged to be the North American distributor for that title, also.

Their quilting style is distinctive and their fabric and color choices are unusual to us Yanks, but their quilts are fun, fresh and deeply reflective of their home country. Wild Dog Press, their publisher, has produced a beautiful book with stunning photographs of the land and people that inspire the sisters' 13 pieced and appliqued original designs, including a few dolls.

If you like to travel vicariously, if you're interested in other cultures, and if appreciating new looks in quilting revs your creativity engine, Quilt the Beloved Country is a book you will enjoy.

Good Things Come in Threes

2009-02-10T13:33:00.009-06:00

We are pleased to announce the release of three new books from AQS Publishing:

Piecing with Pixels by Sandra Hart and Gudny Campbell; Hearts & Tulips by Margaret Docherty; and Fussy-cut Mariner's Compass by Ann S. Lainhart.

It's no secret that there is a happy marriage between photos and quilts, and between computers and quilts. Sandy and Gudny have combined their passion for all three and their years of experience teaching into an excellent reference book that includes nine great projects. Using Adobe Photoshop Elements software, they show how you can take a favorite photo and transform it into beautiful fabric to incorporate into a quilt. Piecing with Pixels is not printing photos on fabric; it's sophisticated design work simplified and explained. This is a must-have book for quilters on the cutting edge.

Margaret Docherty has added a third Applique Masterpiece series book to her body of work. Like Little Brown Bird and Birds 'n Roses, Hearts & Tulips is a pattern book for a single, exquisite quilt, or a resource for the 42 patterns for any elegant project calling for applique. As always, Margaret's directions are easy to follow and her fabric and color use is extraordinary and instructive. Applique fans, whether beginners or experienced, will love Hearts & Tulips.

If you've admired Mariner's Compass quilts and you love the elegant look of fussy-cutting fabrics to achieve stunning designs, Ann S. Lainhart has read your mind. Her straightforward method for drafting your own Mariner's Compass blocks will put you at ease creating super sharp points. Use her 12-inch, 18-inch or 30-inch instructions or templates to create wallhangings, framed "pictures," or quilts. Ann's tips for choosing the right fabrics for fussy-cutting and calculating yardage will work equally well in any project. Fussy-cut Mariner's Compass is a marvelous book for beginners wanting to spread their wings and experienced quilters alike.

All three of these books are now available at www.americanquilter.com or 1-800-626-5420.

An AQS First! Fiction!

2009-02-04T11:09:00.006-06:00

Heart for a Hero has just come in and we're excited to welcome our first venture into fiction! Authors Ed Ditto and Laura D. Patrick collaborated as only cousins can about the deeply personal topic of post-partum depression. Set in Chattanooga and with a "lost" and then "found" quilt as a prominent character, this book explores what heroes go through in a war zone like Korea and on other fronts. If you're part of the quilting community you will recognize the care and support from quilters woven throughout the authors' first published novel. We hope you enjoy this very different book from AQS and will let us know what you think!

Ice Storm Update

2009-02-02T08:50:00.003-06:00

It's being called the Winter Storm of 2009, but for old timers in Western Kentucky, that's an understatement about last week's devastating ice storm.

Like most businesses in the Paducah area, AQS was without power, phone and cable most of the week of January 27. Today is Groundhog Day (P. Phil saw his shadow) and we're back in the business of publishing the best quilt books around.

If you've tried to reach us, please try again! We're always happy to hear from you.

More Than One Hat

2009-01-22T14:47:00.005-06:00

Congratulations to AQS author Karen Combs on her just-announced fabric designing partnership with Avlyn, Inc. It's exciting and inspiring when creative people use their talents in multiple ways, as Karen has done for many years. Check out her wonderful vision and skills in her books at www.americanquilter.com or 1-800-626-5420 in these titles:

Combing Through Your Scraps CD-ROM (7480)
Celtic Pieced Illusions (7014)
3 Quilters Celebrate the 4 Seasons (6408)
Floral Illusions for Quilters (6213)
Optical Illusions for Quilters (4831)

(Note: Combing Through Your Scraps (5759) is out of print but the CD listed above is available.)

Teacher of the Year Nominee

2009-01-12T14:45:00.006-06:00

Congratulations to AQS author Margie Engel! She's been nominated for Professional Teacher's magazine's Teacher of the Year 2009 honors! Margie's 2008 book, Bodacious Applique a la Carte, is a colorful feast for the eye and full of great tips for using fusibles in applique. She's been teaching adults and kids for many years and is perennially popular in her home state of Florida (where she'd rather stay inside and sew than walk on the beach just outside her door). If her classes are half as informative as her book, this is a well-deserved nomination.

Want to Write a Quilt Book?

2009-01-05T12:49:00.005-06:00

If you've been thinking about writing a quilt book (or your friends, family, the cat, etc., have been bugging you to do it), come to the "So You Think You Want to Write a Quilt Book?" lecture at the 2009 Paducah show. On Wednesday, April 22, from 9 to 10 am, the AQS Executive Book Editor will talk about what's involved generally, and answer specific questions. If you have an idea in mind to discuss and the lecture isn't the right place (or you're shy about bringing up your idea in public), you can make an appointment to talk to her privately during the show.

If you're the "always prepared" type, check out the book proposal guidelines on our web site (www.americanquilter.com) and bring your completed proposal with you. She will take it back to the office and put it into the review cycle. Note: We're now asking for one or two completed projects to accompany proposals, so there might be a touch of show and tell at this lecture. Oh joy! Hope to see you there!

Happy Holidays!

2008-12-19T08:19:00.002-06:00

Wishing you all good reading, good writing, good quilting and an excellent year with your creative muse!