A Patchwork Of Comforts

Author Carol Wiseman asked people around the country to send her descriptions of their favorite comforts. The result is A Patchwork of Comforts, a collection of comforting and comfortable things to soothe body, mind, and spirit. Comforts are organized alphabetically--and Wiseman adds sidebars with bits of trivia, and even comforting recipes, such as a recipe for Zabaglione, a dessert sauce. A-to-Z comforts include: Alone Time: The only voice you hear is your ownAromas: Trigger memoriesBrainrest: A chance to recoup and regroupCrosswords: The right word satisfiesCuddling: Back to the wombDaydreams: Going to the movies freeDogs: Part of the familyVacation: A break from responsibilityWater: Watch it, hear it, drink it, play in it X-tra Time: Ditching the clock lets you finish...whateverYoung at Heart: Keeps you in the loopZZZ's: Renews and reactivates There are plenty of comforting activities to take the sting out of even the worst days: sitting by a fire after a long walk in the cold; watching birds in the back yard; enjoying a big cup of homemade hot chocolate; bathing by candlelight; a weekend camping trip--with no electronic appliances. A Patchwork of Comforts is a homecoming in a book--welcoming, warm, and wise. A book written especially for "one of those days," dipping into A Patchwork of Comforts is like a long soak in a hot tub.

From the popular author of Simple Blessings, Simple Seasons, and Simple Traditions, here's a fresh assortment of inviting quilts. In Kim Diehl's signature style, these 12 projects feature traditional patchwork combined with charming applique. Exuding warmth and comfort, each quilt is perfect for tossing over the arm of a chair to be used at a moment's notice. But with such beautiful artistry, they could easily end up on the wall instead!

Sew quilts in the instantly recognizable style of Kansas Troubles Quilters--two ways! Some designs are traditionally pieced, simplified for smooth and easy piecing. Others use Lynne's clever layered-patchwork technique, where pinked-edge precuts reduce cutting time, minimize bulky seams, and skip pressing steps. The raw edges of layered-patchwork blocks barely fray when washed, giving a fluffy, snuggly finish. You'll love the look of both kinds of quilts: cozy, country-style designs that call out "cuddle me!"

Use traditional piecing skills to create tomorrow's heirloom quilts. You'll discover how to give your favorite blocks a scrappy, modern look with elegant and up-to-date versions of time-tested quilt designs from popular designer Amy Ellis. Learn a bit about the history behind each block as Amy reimagines them as new classics. Build your confidence to "go modern" with Amy's bright and appealing designs that begin with traditional blocks Tips for using color and negative space ensure a modern look with the fabric from your stash Get handy hints, from Amy and other top designers, that will help you better understand what makes a scrap quilt successful

Decorate your home throughout the snowy season with 10 folk-art quilts and accessories! Choose from lap quilts, wall quilts, pillows, and table runners, all featuring favorite wintertime motifs. With easy projects and step-by-step instructions--and a little fun with giant rickrack--you'll be finished before the first holiday party! Projects feature fusible applique and easy wool applique stitched by hand or machine Themes include stockings, stars, trees, holly, and even reindeer Decorating tips throughout the book offer fresh ideas for your home

In Utility-Style Quilts for Everyday Living, renowned fabric and quilt designer Sharon Holland provides 12 well-illustrated projects for simple yet beautiful quilts, ranging from table runners to a queen-sized quilt. Each fast-pieced, stash-busting project is great for beginners, with skill-building design tips and suggestions throughout.

Heart-touching stories themed around 12 beloved quilt patterns offer comfort and inspiration to readers.

Shares patchwork patterns for animals from alligator to zebra, shows how to design, piece and assemble a quilt, and includes templates

Expert crafter, Lisa Comfort shares the secrets of her sewing passion. She guides you through all the basics of sewing by hand and machine, as well as providing you with the skills you need to follow her simple but stylish projects.

Whether you are at home or out enjoying a walk on a wooded path, you can add a touch of color and comfort to your daily routines with one or more of the twenty-six projects featured here. By using the patchwork placemats to enliven your dining experience or by taking the hexagon patchwork bag on a picnic in a meadow, you never have to stray too far from the comfort of patchwork. The simple and traditional patchwork styles used in this book are paired with retro fabrics and contemporary designs to create everyday items. Detailed diagrams and instructions are provided for each project. In addition, six mini-lessons on patchwork sewing are offered, making the projects here perfect for beginner and intermediate sewers. Make the projects in this book and add the warmth of handmade to your home and nature outings.