Colourful, kaleidoscopic quilts
Paula Nadelstern's book is full of colourful, kaleidoscopic quilts. They look incredibly complex but come from the author’s realisation that the complex quilts she had previously made could be simplified in structure, still retaining the detail and illusion of complexity through clever fabric choices. Unusually, you start the book with the Gallery. Each quilt is described, a diagram provided of how it is constructed plus any notable detailing or story behind it. Fabrics used before they were cut are shown and compared to the pieces that are used in the finished quilt. They are all breathtaking in their patterns and colours. Following the Gallery is a section on Design Matters where you learn more about the method of fabric cutting. This is illuminating and you can see how the author’s use of clear templates allows her to find the pattern within a larger piece of fabric and piece it all together to create a kaleidoscope. This is a new take on creating a new pattern repeat and the results are fantastic. There are further instructions on piecing techniques, how to cut fabric and work with angles (the author works with traditional patchwork blocks). This book is great if you have a collection of ‘busy’ fabrics and want to give them a new lease of life. Finding a new pattern beyond what exists in your stash could be an addictive pastime.
