Wanderlust Quilts: 10 Modern Projects Inspired by Classic Art and Architecture

Leins studied to be an archeologist before turning to quilting, moving from ancient fabrications to modern fabrics. This book of 10 projects—including bed covers, runners, and pillows—is inspired by ancient architecture. Leins creatively pays homage to the aqueducts of the Coliseum, the inner dome of the Pantheon, or the cobblestones on a street; if it weren’t for the photographs and explanations of the original sources, it might be difficult to see how Leins developed each design, but a comparative look between the rock-hard origin and her soft product immediately clarifies the links. “Flowing Fabric” honors the caryatids on the Erectheum; “Layered Conversations” draws on heaps in old urban landscapes. Leins’s goals include showing that people all over the world, then and now, exploit “the same language of pattern,” including catenary arches, herringbones, and squares within squares. The book includes two pull-out patterns in addition to the detailed instructions and experienced tips. The long-arm quilting on her designs is exquisite but presented without comment. (Aug.)