Improv Sewing

An exciting new approach for beginning to advanced quilters who want to improvise on their own, with a friend, or with a community of fellow makers. Forget step-by-step instructions and copycat designs. In The Improv Handbook for Modern Quilters, Sherri Lynn Wood presents a flexible approach to quilting that breaks free of old paradigms. Instead of traditional instructions, she presents 10 frameworks (or scores) that create a guiding, but not limiting, structure. To help quilters gain confidence, Wood also offers detailed lessons for stitching techniques key to improvisation, design and spontaneity exercises, and lessons on color. Every quilt made from one of Wood’s scores will have common threads, but each one will look different because it reflects the maker’s unique interpretation. Featured throughout the book are Wood’s own quilts and a gallery of contributor works chosen from among the hundreds submitted when she invited volunteers to test her scores during the making of this groundbreaking work. “Wood offers a series of techniques, guidelines and lessons on color choice for those ready to explore improvisational quilting. Her book is loaded with full-color photos and examples to inspire.” —Dallas Morning News “Despite how it may “seam,” quilting isn’t all about rules! Quilting can be an exhilarating way to channel your creativity and express yourself. This book is focused more on exploration than explanation—a perfect mindset for beginners!” —Powell’s Books Staff Pick

Add charm and personal style to your crafting. Nicole Blum and Debra Immergut offer 101 fun project ideas that will have you incorporating decorative touches and texturally interesting patterns into your sewing repertoire. Each project is designed to take less than a day, meaning that before you know it you’ll be whipping out dozens of dazzlingly high-style creations that showcase techniques like pattern-making, appliqué, doodle-stitching, and more. Get inspired and turn old T-shirts into fashion statements and forgotten pillowcases into works of art.

No patterns here, but definitely a plan! Explore the freeing power of improvised piecing with Nicholas Ball in his first book, Inspiring Improv. Learn his step-by-step technique-based process to explore six fundamental piecing structures. Practice how to stitch fabric together in an improvisational manner to create blocks or sections before using them to sew unique quilts all your own. Improv piecing doesn't have to mean chaotic end results. Look to the eight original projects included to see how to create sophisticated quilts with structure focusing on repeating blocks or large-scale scrappy designs. Follow along as Nicholas walks you through his original inspiration and follow his plan through to finished pieces, as he discusses which combination of his core piecing methods he used, and how to achieve showstopping, exciting work. From simple strip piecing through to complex circles and rings, you will be eager to experiment with making slabs, gentle curves, insets, triangles and even 9-patch and Log Cabin stacks. In no time, you'll be using them as a stepping stone to sewing original full-sized improvisational designs.

Take on color and creativity with improv quilting! Find inspiration in Improv and start your journey with bold colors and unique designs! Improv expert Cindy Grisdela shares the design principles and construction strategies for successful quilts every time. Explore three different ways to create improvisationally, from the easiest—using one block in different colors and orientations—to combining block units using various techniques—to aspirational, free cutting the entire quilt and designing it on the wall before sewing. Finished creations result in one-of-a-kind artwork! Master three different improvisational styles to create original works of art Design and construction process made easy with expert strategies Guided exercises will have you creating stunning Improv quilts in no time!

Explore new options in improvisational piecing and empower your creativity! Cut and combine solid-color fabrics to create your own “prints”—stripes, polka dots, chevrons, plaids, and more. Forget the rules (and even your ruler) as you piece colorful solids into compelling quilt designs. Use color, pattern, and repetition to develop your personal design aesthetic as you stitch freely to create unique quilts that pack a punch!

“Do away with patterns and embrace your creative spirit with this vibrant and fun book.” —Quilting Arts With simple design principles, you can create unique improvisational quilts. Without using patterns, learn five easy piecing techniques for your improvisational toolbox (including circles, blocks, and strips), and watch the art unfold before your eyes. Focus on color combos and negative space to discover your personal style—and then add dazzling texture with free-motion quilting. Also included is information on hanging finished art quilts without a sleeve, plus tried and true improv tips to encourage creative play.

Welcome to structured improvisation, where there's a plan in place...but still plenty of room to play! Learn three methods for sewing together rectangles, squares, strips, and even the tiniest fabric scraps to create new yardage; then use the resulting scrappy fabrics in a dozen dazzling step-by-step quilt patterns. Start by working with just one color at a time to get the hang of improv piecing. Soon you'll progress to mixing colors and prints in scrap-packed quilts that will give a happy home to every piece of fabric you've ever saved!

An original and unique process for designing and constructing improvisational quilts developed by Irene Roderick. This book appeals to beginning and advanced quilters who are looking for a new creative and artistic method of quilt design and construction. A handbook for quilters who want to expand their skills and make unique, personal expressions instead of following traditional quilt methods. The author's approach is fluid and intuitive, inviting you to tap into your imagination and ingenuity in order to create one-of-a-kind quilts in your own creative voice. The book provides instructions for design and construction accompanied by tips and tools to enable you to work freely without preconceived ideas of where the process leads. She will ask you to learn to trust your personal experiences and instincts so that you can develop your own personal style.