Shadow Applique: A Fresh Take on a Traditional Technique

Rating:
Summary: Shadow Applique by Hetty van Boven
Review: Hetty van Boven's book, Shadow Appliqué - a fresh take on a traditional technique does indeed take a fresh approach to a traditional technique. Hetty's easy to understand instructions takes the quilter through all the necessary steps to complete a variety of floral projects. From a personal perspective, I can't wait to start on the hibiscus and the nasturtium projects.
If you struggle with turning under seams and/or needle turning your appliqué work, then this is the book for you.
One aspect I particularly like is Hetty's Hints which are scattered throughout the book. These certainly help explain some of the finer points of shadow appliqué and take away some of the mystery of what, on the face of it, looks like a complicated process.
The illustrations are colourful and clear and add to the reader's delight. The 'how to ' graphics with hands 'preparing appliqué pieces' are particularly useful for 'show me how' learners like me. I especially liked reading Hetty's 'floral' notes under many of the illustrations.
Hetty gives the quilter some very useful tips for machine techniques. I loved her comment, when giving some machine quilting tips, about remembering to breath. How true.
For me, the main effort involved will be in finding a copier which can accommodate the 500% requirement to enlarge the pattern for a 16" block. If I can master than bit of technology, then the shadow appliqué part of it should be a breeze.
There are two projects at the end of the book. One, a pillow, shows you how to make one of your finished blocks into a pillow cover (Hetty chose the Passionflower block). All the details are there for a professional, satisfying result. The Norfolk Island wall hanging offers a different project and a new challenge to the quilter. The finishing touches for mitred binding and hanging sleeve are useful for whatever quilt you might make, and the final result is sure to please.
A great book, from a well-respected, international quilter who is willing to share many of her secrets with the reader. A highly recommended 'must-have' book for all quilters from novice to experienced.

Rating:
Summary: Shadow Applique by Hetty van Boven
Review: Hetty van Boven's book, Shadow Appliqué - a fresh take on a traditional technique does indeed take a fresh approach to a traditional technique. Hetty's easy to understand instructions takes the quilter through all the necessary steps to complete a variety of floral projects. From a personal perspective, I can't wait to start on the hibiscus and the nasturtium projects.
If you struggle with turning under seams and/or needle turning your appliqué work, then this is the book for you.
One aspect I particularly like is Hetty's Hints which are scattered throughout the book. These certainly help explain some of the finer points of shadow appliqué and take away some of the mystery of what, on the face of it, looks like a complicated process.
The illustrations are colourful and clear and add to the reader's delight. The 'how to ' graphics with hands 'preparing appliqué pieces' are particularly useful for 'show me how' learners like me. I especially liked reading Hetty's 'floral' notes under many of the illustrations.
Hetty gives the quilter some very useful tips for machine techniques. I loved her comment, when giving some machine quilting tips, about remembering to breath. How true.
For me, the main effort involved will be in finding a copier which can accommodate the 500% requirement to enlarge the pattern for a 16" block. If I can master than bit of technology, then the shadow appliqué part of it should be a breeze.
There are two projects at the end of the book. One, a pillow, shows you how to make one of your finished blocks into a pillow cover (Hetty chose the Passionflower block). All the details are there for a professional, satisfying result. The Norfolk Island wall hanging offers a different project and a new challenge to the quilter. The finishing touches for mitred binding and hanging sleeve are useful for whatever quilt you might make, and the final result is sure to please.
A great book, from a well-respected, international quilter who is willing to share many of her secrets with the reader. A highly recommended 'must-have' book for all quilters from novice to experienced.