If you are a regular reader here, you already know that I’ve been working for the last year and a half on a new applique compilation book with Stash Books/C&T Publishing. (If you are visiting for the first time, welcome! Thanks for stopping by, and please do have a look around!) I’m delighted to officially kick off the blog tour for this book, The Appliqué Book, today!
The tour will run for two weeks and feature two stops each day. At least one stop will feature a contributor to the book writing about the project or projects they designed and contributed, and one may feature a review or other perspective from a designer that I interviewed and profiled, a complementary quilting publication, or a quilting retailer. I hope that you’ll follow along to each stop to get to know all of the many people who played (and will continue to play) a role in this project–I truly couldn’t have done it without their amazing contributions, and I’m so thankful that I’ve gotten to know them through this collaborative effort.
Image courtesy of Stash Books; Photo by Nissa Brehmer and Kristy Zacharias
Today, I’d like to introduce you to one of the cover quilts, Shards, which recently hung in the QuiltCon West show in Pasadena. When I first started teaching appliqué workshops, I began thinking about quilting process in a new way, trying to devise methods that would be fun to teach and learn in addition to being personally satisfying. I was inspired by the success of improvisational piecing to explore whether improvisation would work with appliqué.
Luckily, art history geek that I am, I had a high profile precedent to refer back to in the works of Henri Matisse, whose cut paper collage technique inspired my initial workshops in this technique (you’ll probably hear more about Matisse from another blog tour contributor, but you’ll have to follow along or check out the book to find out who!) When I put together the workshop, I wanted to give my students additional examples of shapes they could cut and applique improvisationally, and this was the beginning of Shards. I was so excited to finally have the opportunity to make this quilt concept come to life for The Appliqué Book, and I think it will provide readers with a novel and fun way of approaching appliqué.
Image courtesy of Stash Books; Photo by Diane Pedersen
Thanks to the generosity of Stash Books, I’m able to give away a copy of The Appliqué Book to a lucky reader! I usually run giveaways for a week, but this one will run for the duration of the Blog Tour. To enter, leave a comment on this post about you thoughts on applique as a family of techniques. Do you love it? Hate it? Is it your go-to technique or have you never tried it? It’s my hope that the diversity of design voices and technical approaches in this book will demonstrate the possibilities of this family of techniques and inspire you to try out one or more! Comment by midnight on Friday, March 25, and I’ll announce a random winner on Saturday, March 26.
To learn more about the projects and designers featured in the book, please follow along with the Tour. Here is the complete schedule:
Mon. March 14:
Casey York | https://studioloblog.wordpress.com
C&T Publishing |http://www.ctpub.com/blog/
Tues. March 15:
Jenna Brand | http://jennabrand.com/
Adrianne Ove/Pink Chalk | http://www.pinkchalkstudio.com/blog/
Wed. March 16:
Jenifer Dick | http://42quilts.com/
Pati Fried | https://seehowwesew.wordpress.com/
Thurs. March 17:
Shannon Brinkley | http://www.thebottletree.net/blog/
Bari J. | http://barijdesigns.com/blogs/blog
Fri. March 18:
Debbie Grifka | http://eschhousequilts.com/blog
Beth Vassalo | http://plumandjune.blogspot.com
Mon. March 21:
Latifah Saafir | http://www.latifahsaafirstudios.com/blog/
Tues. March 22:
Lynn Harris | http://thelittleredhen.typepad.com
Kevin Kosbab | http://feeddog.blogspot.com
Modern Quilts Unlimited | https://modernquilts.mqumag.com/category/blog
Web. March 23:
Allison Rosen | http://withinaquarterinch.com/
Cindy Lammon | http://hyacinthquiltdesigns.blogspot.com/
Thurs. March 24:
Rossie Hutchinson | http://www.rossiecrafts.com/blog
Generation Q | http://generationqmagazine.com/
Fri. March 25:
Betz White | http://betzwhite.com/blog
Casey York | https://studioloblog.wordpress.com
studioloblog.wordpress.com 
Shard is so great! i’ve honestly never been a big fan of applique, because i disliked hand sewing, but as i’ve done more EPP, hand stitching has totally grown on me. i find it so relaxing now! i started working on a quilt a few weeks ago with a bit of applique, and since i started, i’ve done three other smaller applique projects – i’ve been bit by the bug!
I love appliqué and anytime I can learn a new method of it makes my day
Haven’t used appliqué yet, but I’m always excited to learn something new.
I have done very little appliqué but I love the look of it. This quilt is so great. I’m interested in learning more about this technique.
I love the look of applique, but found it a bit fiddly – your book looks like it simplifies things!
I am learning to do applique and am thrilled by the thought of improv applique. Great looking book!
I have only done raw edge appliqué but really want to learn needle turn appliqué. Love the blues in Shard. Thanks for the giveaway.
I love applique! It’s what piqued my interest in quilting in the first place. I’m always open to learning new ways to us it, of course!
I love the designs you can get from applique. I have raw edge machine appliqued a few times and it was quite fun, but I don’t think I have the patience right now for turned edge hand applique (maybe someday!). I love the blues in this quilt- stunning!
I have been intimidated by applique but I recently took a day long workshop and was pleasantly surprised to find that it was not as difficult as I had thought!!! Now I really like it – Shards is wonderful – would love to make it!!! thanks for the chance!! churcae(at)auburn(dot)edu
I haven’t done too much applique but I have tried my hand at it a handful of times. I would love to learn more.
I’ve only been sewing a few months and have not tried applique yet. I have a project for pi day (today) that I think I am going to try to get my feet wet! Would love to learn more techniques.
I use to shy away from any applique unless it was needle turn. Lately I have been using the fusible applique method then attaching it using the sewing machines different stitches. Now I am in love. Thank you for sharing the lovely projects.
Hi I like to use appliqué in my baby charity quilts ! Thanks for sharing !
I don’t hate it but it’s not my favorite thing to do. It’s a little bit OCD to come out perfect.
Applique allows me to add a personal touch to pieced quilts.
I stay away from applique because I can never get the edges all tucked under where it looks nice. Maybe this book is just the thing I need for encouragement! thanks for the chance
I love the story of your inspiration. The book sounds wonderful.
I hesitate to start appliqué projects but then once I do I love it. I wonder why I ever hesitated! Just getting ready to to start my first hand appliqué quilt and looking forward to it. Would love to have this book. Beautiful quilts.
Very pretty looks like a great book cant wait to see more….
When working on applique I enjoy it, but starting a project seems to be a stumbling block. Love Shards!
I like the looks of appliqué but tend to shy away from it.
I haven’t done any applique yet. Maybe something from this book will inspire me.
Your Shards is lovely. I think I am in the minority but I really love Applique and it is first in my quilting arsinal.
I think I am better at piecing than I am at appliqué, but I love the appliqué things that I have made.
Congratulations on your book. I am excited about this blog hop. I love the Shards quilt. I just finished paper piecing some blocks and I think the scraps from each could be worked into something like Shards. I haven’t done any appliqué yet but it’s on my list of things to try!
I haven’t tried it because I’ve been intimidated by the gorgeous applique that I’ve seen with their perfect edges. Lately though raw-edge applique is becoming more and more mainstream and “legitimate” (so I no longer have to fear the quilt police) and I’m looking to jump in and make some fun quilts for my grade school aged nephews.
I haven’t been doing appliqué for all that long, but I love it! I’m excited to learn about the technique you used for Shards! Thanks for the giveaway!
I’ve tried various types of applique, but haven’t found one I love the results of yet. Maybe this book will help!
Love your Shards quilt!
I love using applique because it opens up so many possibilities! I use the fast method of ironing on then zig-zaging around because I don’t enjoy hand stitching. I started using this technique before I ever made a quilt by making fabric post cards (mini quilts). I was inspired by Jane Sassaman’s work. I’ve completed two quilts now and have used applique in both. Am exited to read about how you made the Shards quilt…..it is striking! Would love your book!
I am excited to learn some new techniques on applique!
Your quilt is beautiful.
I’ve enjoyed used appliqué on several projects. On one project – a baby quilt of zoo animal heads – I used machine satin stitch with variegated thread. It was so much fun to do. Another quilt – a smaller wall – I used needle turn appliqué to sew on lots of berries and a redbird. I was a slower process but I do like the finished result.
I am soo ready to learn more about applique! I want to just jump in with both feet but don’t know where to start. :)
craftyccain@gmail.com
I used to hate applique when I though tit was all about turning under the edges and making smooth curves. Now I absolutely love it, since I can also use raw edge, and fusible applique. I love it so much, that I even learned to love turning under edges and making smooth curves! There is so much versatility in applique and so much you can do. Your book sounds great. I like all the quilts I’ve seen so far that are in the book.
I have done many of different ways to applique – hand sewn, fusible raw edge, blanket stitch, etc. I don’t applique much, but once in a while a project just calls for it.
I love Shard!
I’ve only done a little fusible applique
love applique! any method will do! love applique books, too … enjoy reading them in my quiet time, firing up my imagination, inspiration. thanx for the opportunity to win a copy of your book.
Your quilt is very striking!! Wow! I like to hand applique whenever I can. It is very relaxing.
I love the great effects and variations. I am not too happy doing needle turned applique. Maybe I should give it another try after reading your book.
I love applique – have been doing it in various forms for years. Enjoy both hand-sewing & finishing raw edges on the sewing machine. Love the versatility of finishing methods, as well as fabrics & designs!
I love Applique. I have your firs book and would love to add your new book to my collection
I hate a love hate relationship with appliqué. I love needle turn appliqué or any appliqué sewn by hand. I hate raw edge appliqué. I can never get it right.
Too new to make any judgements about applique, but this book should set me on the path!
I love applique with animals but haven’t thought about trying something like this piece. I’d love to try something new!
I tend to shy away from applique as a rule but this new book is very intriguing and making think about applique as a technique I might want to learn after all. Especially with the lovely examples I’ve seen so far.
I do appliques ie animals on baby quilts, hearts for Valentines day & plan to do a Life on the Prairie applique quilt. I use a buttonhole stitch as it features nicely on the designs.
I love applique and would certainly be thrilled to have your new book! Congrats!
I’ve tried needle turn and could never get the hang of it. Mostly I do the starch or glue technique and sew it down by machine. Sometimes I’ll do raw edge applique.
Yes, I’ve tried it….but I’m not the best at it. i do think a quilt with lots of flower appliques is just beautiful.
Yes, I’ve tried applique. I’ve used fusible, but don’t really like how it changes the hand of the fabric. Not sure my eyesight is suited for hand applique. My favorite was when I appliqued a wonky dresden plate block onto a bag – no fusible, no need to finish edges. Do look forward to learning more about this topic so I can see what I like and what I don’t.
I haven’t tried it yet but I have so many designs in my head that I want to try. I am sure I will be smitten once I do. Just love this blue and also the ginko design. Gorgeous/
I love raw edge applique. Hand stitching scares me, but I can be brave… in spits & spurts. Looking forward to your inspiring works.
I do a fair amount of “old school” applique – mostly needle turn. I have done some fusible but it’s not my first love. Currently working on Carolyn Friedlander’s Collection quilt. Love Shards!
I love the look of appliqué. I am a beginner and gave a lot to learn about the various appliqué techniques. Looking forward to your posts.
I love applique. I am always looking for ways to improve my technique.
Hand applique is always a challenge for me and as my hands continue to be plagued with arthritis even more so. But I consider it good therapy, both mental and physical and try to do the best job possible. The more I can learn to perfect it with tips and tricks, I am happy.
Hi,
Applique is something that I haven’t tried much of….just a little here and there. Having said that I have been meaning to try my hand at reverse applique. Always looking for tips and tricks to help me learn something new
I love love love appliqué, it is my favorite way to make quilts and other items. I have appliqued on sweatshirts, shirts even pants. I have the appliqué blocks for one quilt done, with 3 more in different stages of being done. It has became one of my favorite sewing mediums. Love your book, it opens up so many possibilities I hadn’t thought of. Keep up the fantastic work.
I like it and would like to incorporate it more into children’s clothing.
I haven’t done much appliqué yet but it’s in my “learn something new” list for this year
Shards is very striking! I’ve only used hand appliqué in traditional applications, although I’ve been dabbling with needleturn to create organic shapes. I’m interested to see the techniques described in your new book. Congratulations!
Love the idea of the book. I do basic hand applique, a little each day, just because. Need to expand my vision.
Looks like a great book. …can’t wait to get it!
Although I haven’t tried any modern applique these patterns are very inspiring. This book looks like a must have!
I really love the look of applique quilts. Some are daunting but I like the challenge.The books looks very interesting,, thank you
This book might cure my fear of applique.
I have never tried appliqué, but I love your modern approach so may have to try it sometime. Shards is amazing!
I admire well done applique and it scares me like crazy! Not sure why but it’s one of those techniques I’ve put off and put off. I would love to win a copy of your book (of course!) but I just want to say when you came to MN Quilt Show last summer and spent an evening with us afterward talking about art influencing your work and how to use art history, etc…. to inspire…..well, that was one of the best presentations I’ve heard. Hope you have a nice Easter holiday!
I’ve never tried it but I will. I’m a bit scared…
Enjoyed your first book. Congrats on your second Look forward to reading it.
I’ve done raw edge machine appliqué and I love it. I think it’s a nice added touch to some quilts. I’ve tried hand appliqué, but I’m not that good at it yet. I’d like to try some more of it. I guess it just takes practice to get better at it. Congratulations on the book.
I’ve done a few small applique projects, never a whole quilt. You have some terrific ideas that I’d like to try.
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You saved the best for last. Love your ideas. Thank you!
It may be because I am a learner by nature … I think know that learning multiple applique techniques, you have options when attempting to realize a design and can choose the best fit.
I have really enjoyed this blog tour. Your Corona de Flores quilt takes the cake, so to speak. It’s gorgeous! In my dreams I could make that quilt. I guess I’d have to start with some of the simpler projects, since I am a novice applique-ist.
Thanks for the chance to win your exciting book!
GigHarborJoyce
I love doing applique; thanks for a chance to win your book!
I have always loved appliqué and the book looks like a great read! The photos look beautiful. I will have to get a copy! Thanks!
Hi Casey! I’ve done some fusible appliqué, but not much since I’ve been doing more modern quilts, and I’m kind of in love with piecing! But I see lots of inspiration here. I love Shards, and the squirrely one, and Corona de Flores … Congratulation on the new book – it’s great!
Congrats on the book, Casey! It looks awesome. I’m definitely an applique lover, and the more techniques I try, the more I seem to love it. You’ve amassed quite a collection here. Wonderful job!
Casey congratulations on the book. Can’t wait to see it. I love the idea of a grouping of applique techniques because I think there is something out there for everyone and until you try several you don’t know what is going to work for you, what you will hate, or love etc. I personally go for wool (no turning) and machine applique these days.
Well i have just finished your blog hop….Very nice ty for the ideas and really nice book….. happyness04431@yahoo.com
What a great hop! It was neat seeing everyone’s beautiful creations and learning more about the book.
Thanks for a chance to win.
usairdoll(at)gmail(dot)com
I’ve always admired applique quilts but reluctant to attempt a project of my own. This book looks very interesting and I would love to look throught it and try some of the techniques. Thanks!
aquiltersplayhouse at gmail dot com
I haven’t done much appliqué and didn’t realise there were so many different techniques available. Thanks for this inspiring blog hop!