Stitch ’n Swap: 25 Handmade Projects to Sew, Give & Receive

The publisher of Generation Q magazine presents a collection of projects from its pages with a clever twist—all are designed for swapping, in which the members of a group make and exchange the same pattern among themselves. Thus, the projects here are fairly simple and charming, from the Kaleidoscope pincushion pictured on the cover to a Coffee Cup Tool Caddy, which will transform a mug into a sewist’s assistant. A variety of techniques and materials are employed throughout: a diaper clutch uses oilcloth, while Parquet Pot Holders include insulation. Several simple small quilts are included as well. The swap conceit really only goes so far—how many quilting groups need multiple diaper clutches?—but all of the ideas here are accessible, well-designed, and clearly explained and illustrated. So long as the person attempting these has some basic knowledge of quilting, this book is a great addition to the home library, with lots of gift ideas to boot. Full color photos. (May)