Do you feel you are in a rut with your quilt-making? Are you looking for some fresh ideas? Is that what is troubling you? The Ozark Piecemakers’ Quilt Guild Library may have the solution. It might rejuvenate your love of quilting to step out of your box and try something a little non-traditional. Different cultures and countries have different sewing techniques and fabrics. It doesn’t hurt to take a look. Even if you decide not to make a quilt using the techniques, it may inspire you to try something different with color and fabric.
Japanese Country Quilting, Sashiko Patterns and Projects for Beginners by Karen Kim Matsunaga
Sashiko is a simple running stitch worked in repeating patterns through one or more layers of fabric. Similar to quilting in the West, Sashiko is a humble craft with humble beginnings. In Japan, fabric was difficult to obtain, especially in rural areas, and very expensive. Kimonos were patched and resewn until the fabric would become thin. In the early years, fabric was so precious that clothing was patched and reused to make other pieces. Extra layers of fabric and batting were sewn together to further the life of a garment. Today, while some rural households continue the traditional sashiko, most decorative items are made for the tourist industry. In colder climates, layers of cloth were sewn together for warmth. Sashiko is more commonly seen on indigo-dyed cotton fabric with white thread instead of silk.
This book introduces you to the many uses and the how-to of this interesting technique. I would relate sashiko to a combination of candle-wicking embroidery and hand quilting. There are numerous grids and patterns included. Projects such as curtains, knick-knack bags, cushions, and a furoshiki, or Japanese wrapping cloth, will give you an opportunity to try the technique without investing in a large quilt.
East-West Quilts by Kumiko Sudo
This book is inspirational for changing the traditional quilt designs, fabrics, and colors with fresh ideas from the artist. It includes 53 original full-color block designs with templates and instructions, as well as, eight quilts with templates, yardage charts, and instructions. Kumiko Sudo shares stories about each quilt block design and how her background and daily life influence her designs.
Kumiko Sudo is an internationally acclaimed fiber artist. Her designs include piecing, applique, and fabric folding.
These books are just a sample of the many books recently obtained by the OPQG Library that feature Eastern designs and authors. Browse the New Book Bins to find innovative ideas.
The online booklist has been updated. To request a book, contact Loretta Hermann, Librarian.