One of my favorite things about quilting is the structure. You follow a pattern knowing what the quilt will look like at the end. There is a comfort in the knowledge that if I follow the instructions laid out before me, I will love the end result of all of that hard work. And, on top of that, is the added thrill of perfect points and seams that nest beautifully.
All that to say, it is not surprising that I felt uneasy and intimidated by improv quilting. I considered it to be too modern and too random. I couldn’t see the structure in it, so I didn’t understand it. I know there are many more traditional quilters out there who feel the same way. Maybe even you! Improv quilting isn’t a chance because those quilters don’t even know where to start.
Imperfect: Embracing Improv Quilting is for the quilter who feels intimidated by improv quilting. It follows my journey from rigid, rule following traditional quilter to a(more) go with the flow improv quilter. When I started this project, I had never attempted anything improvisational before. I hadn’t even taken a class or read a blog post about it. My journey into improv quilting takes you through how I approach each pattern, the mindset shifts that happened, the mistakes I made, and the lessons I learned along the way.
The projects in the book start simple with each subsequent project adding a new element or a different twist. The last project is a sampler quilt where I revisit every technique and put everything together into one quilt. Everything is shared with the mindset of someone who prefers structure and guidelines, making improv quilting feel approachable.
Most quilting books are strictly eye candy for me. This one is that AND a great read also. I thoroughly enjoyed the text and the projects. I think you will too.
— Amazon Review
This book has it all!! I have never done improv quilting before but I have bought all of Julie’s traditional patterns so I had to buy this! It did not disappoint, she takes you on her journey through improv but she also gives you detailed instructions and tips on what to do! Just like her patterns, it’s easy to follow and well written. I also LOVE that she tells you how to make these patterns your own! Each pattern comes with a story of why each design is significant to her life and I loved getting to learn more about Julie and it gave me ideas for how to be creative based on my own experiences!
— Amazon Review
I have made several quilts using Julie’s patterns, so when I saw this book I had to have it. Improv quilting is something new for me and I’m excited to branch out and try it. The book is gorgeous with easy to follow instructions and I love the stories behind the inspiration for each quilt.
— Amazon Review
I am so excited to share this book with the world. It means the world to me to share my passion for quilting with you through this book. :)