Color, Thread and Free-Motion Quilting: Learn to Stitch with Reckless Abandon

This informative debut guide from quilting designer and teacher Lucas explores how thread color can add texture to a design. Addressing free-motion quilters (those who quilt with a regular domestic sewing machine, as opposed to a long-arm quilting machine), Lucas goes over the rules of color relationships, but also encourages a free-spirited approach accepting of chance inspiration and seeming imperfections. Her discussions of 10 colors suggests the best application of each, for example, using black to outline and “corral” color, and purple to set off oranges, reds, and yellows. The vivid photographs, useful charts, and checklists with information on thread size, needles types, and stitch designs provide easily accessible references. Though Lucas’s explanations of quilting terms and techniques assumes a relatively entry-level level of knowledge, seasoned practitioners may also find inspiration in the emphasis on thread choice; the author suggests even longtime quilters often neglect this aspect of the craft. Filled with helpful tips, thoughtful advice, and inspiring ideas, Lucas’s attractive resource will come in handy for quilters. (July)