Hoop Quilts for Beginners: 15 Designs From Easy Patchwork and Embroidery

Designer and instructor Chany (Sister Sampler Quilts) combines “patchwork, hand embroidery, and hoop craft into one” in this eminently helpful volume. As she writes, “many people are intimidated and hesitant to try” quilting, but breaking the craft down into smaller hoop projects can help make things easier. Chany opens with an introduction to patchwork and embroidery materials, outlining how much fabric should be used for hoops of different sizes, as well as types of threads (perle cotton, for instance, gives a glossier finish than traditional embroidery floss). She covers quilting and embroidery techniques, as well, describing how to create a half-square triangle and satin stitches. The eye-catching projects include a simple “The Original” design composed of 16 half-square triangles, quarter-circle units, and a running stitch embellishment; a “Sunset Star” design that uses several quilting units plus the wagon wheel rose embroidery motif and French knots; and the resourceful “Orphan Blocks” for using up scrap fabric. Chany’s instructions will answer many beginners’ questions on topics such as squaring up blocks, nesting seams, and finishing hoops. These sound tips put to rest the idea that quilting is for seasoned crafters only. (July)