I was fortunate enough to meet the lovely Alissa Haight Carlton at Quilt Market only weeks ago, and the feeling you get from her is just the feeling that I get from her new book, Block Party, which was written together with Kristen Lejnieks. And that feeling is one of approachability and warmth. After talking to her for a only a bit, I wanted to sit next to her and sew. The book, after reading a few pages, makes you feel just the same way. You just feel invited. Not in the fancy invitation that comes in the mail and requires a new dress kind of invitation, but a hey, come over here and join us kind of invitation. The best kind.
The book covers 12 women who formed a modern quilting bee so that each would contribute a block to one person's quilt concept each month. All the blocks would be sent to that one person, and she would get to assemble the quilt and keep it. By the end of the year all twelve of them had done the same, each keeping a piece of history and the work of 12 minds, 24 hands. I love thinking of how every block in every quilt was created during a completely separate set of circumstances within each quilter's life. And that they each, doubtlessly, struggled more with one block than another, experienced successes and emotions that they wouldn't have otherwise had. Some days I imagine that making the block was the most peaceful part of their day- I'm sure other days, they forgot to get to it all together, and stressed a bit to finish it. Each one different. Each one a record of time. Each one perfecting a skill they already possessed or pushing them into a new one. And all together the quilt then, an expression of many. I do believe that is the heart and soul of quilting.
I took note of my dear friend Denyse's introduction to the book, most specifically where she writes that "the best way to learn something (to understand it viscerally and not just intellectually) is to make it happen with your own hands." That, in addition to all the wonderful inspiration, and perfectly clear instructions is what had me chopping up my Liberty stack faster than you can say bee (which doesn't take long at all). I was so inspired by the Confetti quilt because it felt most different from what I typically do. More improvisational. I see a lot of quilts. Lots and lots. And the moment I see them I either get it and move on, or I get it and I want to try it. Or better still, I get it, want to try, and even meditate for a while on how I might interpret it to see it anew. So here I am, improvising within the boundaries of this lovely Confetti block. Instead of using all white for the solid background, I decided to show off all the irregular strip widths by using 3 solids from my voiles (sixpence, midnight, river rock). And because I can't leave well enough alone, in addition to the 3 background solids, I decided to interject one of my own prints. The good for me thing, in addition to it being a scrap + solid style block, is that its perfect for special fabrics that you'd like to use a bit sparingly.
So after only messing around for about an hour or so this morning, I am finding myself entirely charmed with this process, remembering how much I love to wing it, and loving how this one little block is a microcosm of the quilt it will become. And even each component of the block, its own abstract composition- beautiful and unique. I've decided that I need a little tiny bit of this freedom on a regular basis, so I think I'll do one every Saturday morning. We'll see how that goes. I'm glad to have the company of these talented women every time I open this book.
Would you like to open this book? I get to give one away! Leave me any ole comment and we'll get a name chosen at random on Monday of next week. For more wonderful write-ups about this book, follow along on the blog tour:
6/21/2011 A Quilt Is Nice
6/22/2011 I Heart Linen
6/23/2011 Tallgrass Prairie Studio
6/24/2011 Oh, Fransson!
6/25/2011 All Buttoned Up
6/26/2011 West Coast Crafty
6/27/2011 Connecting Threads
6/28/2011 Crafty Girls Workshop
6/29/2011 Whip Up
6/30/2011 Pink Chalk Studio
7/1/2011 True Up
7/5/2011 Block Party Bee Blog
7/6/2011 Anna Maria Horner
7/7/2011 Craftzine.com
happy quilting, xo, Anna
count me in! i'd love to win a copy of this book.
ReplyDeleteThis was one of the more insightful looks into a book that I've seen! I wasn't sure I needed this book on my sewing shelves, especially since I'm not much of an improv quilter myself. After reading your experience with this book and your interactions with the authors, I am more compelled now to get this book and actually try some of the projects. Thanks for that push I needed! (love seeing the spin you'r putting on a project, btw)
ReplyDeleteLove your approach to all things quilty. The idea of loosening up with my quilting is ever so surely making inroads into my thoughts. I'd love to win the book and really break out of my structured style. Anne
ReplyDeleteOh, I'd love to get my hands on this book! Thanks for the giveaway!
ReplyDeleteIsn't it amazing how we each can look at something and then create it in our very own unique style! Love your take on the this quilt.
ReplyDeleteI love it! Its so wierd to see you inspired by someone else, when you're the one that does so much inspiring on a daily basis! Thanks for letting us know about Block Party!
ReplyDeleteI would love to win this book, it looks amazing! I want to try my hand at more improv piecing, and I love the blocks you made!
ReplyDeleteIt would be great to win this book! Thanks for the chance!
ReplyDeleteI would love a copy of this book!
ReplyDeleteOh, I would LOVE this! Your fabrics are so beautiful!
ReplyDeleteLove it! I'm new to quilting and can't decide which pattern to try next. This book might just be the inspiration I need!
ReplyDeleteThis book would be great to add to my library- thanks for the giveaway!
ReplyDeleteLiberty fabric is gorgeous to sew with, your block looks lovely.
ReplyDeleteI would love a chance to win this book.
I would love to try one of these quilts!
ReplyDeleteI'm in! I would love to meander through the book, enveloped in quilts and imaginings of what could be...
ReplyDeleteThis looks like a wonderful book to add to your craft library. Thanks for the opportunity to win.
ReplyDeleteI'd love to win this! Thanks for the chance.
ReplyDeleteOh, I do believe I would very much enjoy owning my very own copy of this book. Such great inspiration! Thanks very much for the give away.
ReplyDeleteI've been drooling over this book. I love the idea of a quilting bee and doing a square a month for other crafters.
ReplyDeleteThe book sounds wonderful! I want to join a block party!!!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the chance to win a copy of this book - looks like a good one!
ReplyDeleteAmy
amy(dash)elisabeth(at)hotmail(dot)com
Beautiful post! I love your thoughts on quilting and community. And I am so excited to check out this book, (whether I win it or buy it)!
ReplyDeleteI'd love to win a copy too! As does the modern quilting bee... wish I knew more women who sewed to create something like this, though in modern times I suppose it could be done from a distance.
ReplyDeleteAlso, I can't wait to see your finished quilt - love the brights against the muted tones.
I love the concept of this book! How incredibly cool :)
ReplyDeleteThat confetti block is fun in white and earth tones. Lovely!
ReplyDeleteLike your block! Would love the book too, me thinks.
ReplyDeleteI was just thinking today that I needed to start a new quilt - the book looks lovely!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful, I love how you can take a pattern and truly make it your own by changing the colours or using a print in an unexpected place. Thanks for the generous giveaway!
ReplyDeleteWhat a fabulous idea!! I would LOVE a copy of such a down-home invitation to SEW :)
ReplyDeleteSo inspiring and as always you draw me in with your words. Thanks and I do hope you are having a wonder filled summer. -Melanie
ReplyDeleteYour block looks great. I spent Monday cutting into my Loulouthi stash and most of last night sewing it up. I hope to finish the quilt top tonight but I haven't had enough quality time with the fabric yet. I'm going to have to come up with another quilt to make from it. yeah!
ReplyDeleteI would love to win a copy. I am in my first on line bee (which is improv!). This book would be the perfect inspiration.
ReplyDeleteoh i would love this book. Thanks for the chance and have a great summer!
ReplyDeleteI'd love a copy, thanks for the chance!
ReplyDeleteI like the way you interpreted the block. I'd love to have a chance, too!
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your insights and opportunity to win a copy!
ReplyDeleteI'd love to win this book. I've discovered some wonderful blogs from this blog tour.
ReplyDeleteThis book looks great! Thanks for the chance to win.
ReplyDeleteBoy, would I EVER love this book! Love your block, too!
ReplyDeleteEvery time I see the quilts from this book, I want the book even more. Thanks for the chance to win.
ReplyDeleteHeidi
That's my style of doing things - I love the spur of the moment, spontaneity mode of creating ...
ReplyDeleteyes please! i would love a chance to win a copy of that book, it looks like fun!
ReplyDeleteCount me in, please. I'd like it. :)
ReplyDeleteI am lovin the butterflies fabric....and would love love that book. Thanks for having a giveaway!
ReplyDeleteI'm so fascinated by this book-looks like wonderful quilts
ReplyDeleteImprovisational quilting is something I have recently had the joy of trying too- wow, what liberating fun! I can't believe how much stress is taken away from quilting when you purposefully don't try matching seems or making things perfect- I have realized that I love both traditional and modern quilting and will make room for both in my little world as long as I am having fun. I sure would love to win this book!
ReplyDeleteThis book looks great. I'd sure love a chance to win!
ReplyDeleteIf you recommend it, then I'm sure I would love it!
ReplyDeleteThis book looks great! Thank you!
ReplyDeletewhat an awesome book! raineoc@yahoo.com
ReplyDeleteYour version of the confetti block is lovely! :)
ReplyDeleteI would love to have the book and your fabric :-)
ReplyDeleteSounds so interesting! I would love a chance to win this book.
ReplyDeleteThat sounds like such a wonderful book. I love it when there is a story behind something and it's not just instructions. I'll keep my fingers crossed.
ReplyDeleteThank you for the chance to win such an amazing book! I would love to try the confetti block, along with the other techniques in the book. I'm fairly new to quilting and I'd like to move out of my comfort zone of straight lines all the time.
ReplyDeleteMaking a quilt outside the box is a bit out of my comfort zone but I do love looking at different ideas. I really enjoyed looking at Gwen Marston's Liberated Quilting book and this looks along the same lines. It sounds like a fun book and I would love a chance to win the book.
ReplyDeleteRegards from Western Canada,
Anna Marie
I've seen this book reviewed on other sites but wasn't inspired til now....
ReplyDeleteI would love to sit down with this book AND have someone wave me over to join a sewing group!
ReplyDeleteI'm looking forward to reading this book!
ReplyDeleteoh this book looks lovely! and i expecially like your interpretation of it (:
ReplyDeleteI'd love to sit down and browse through this book! As a garment sewer I've often declared "I don't quilt" but have found myself drawn to these fabulous quilt designs and books.
ReplyDeleteWow I feel inspired just from reading your post about the book, so yes please I'd love to win a copy! Thanks so much.
ReplyDeleteHadn't heard about this book until now! I love a new quilting book. Usually carry it around with me for a few weeks so I can flip through the pages whenever the opportunity presents itself. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteYes please! I would very much love to win a copy of this book!!
ReplyDeleteyes please, it sounds like a lovely and useful book!
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like such a LOVELY book. I'd love to win it!
ReplyDeleteOh I love this idea with Liberty prints and I really want a copy of this book!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the giveaway - would love to win this book!!
ReplyDeletei have to say.... i have been fairly desperate to get my hands on a copy of this book!!! love love love true love!
ReplyDeleteI loved your insight on the book and your piecing process - thank you! Also, thanks for the giveaway - I'd love to win!
ReplyDeleteI like your spin on the confetti block, which is one of my favorites in the book.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for the opportunity! I would love to win a copy of this book!
ReplyDeleteOh, I would love to have this book! Looks like a great one.
ReplyDeleteOh how I would love to win a copy of this book!
ReplyDeleteThis book has been the talk of our modern quilt guild chapter
ReplyDeleteAnna...can I tell you how much I love reading your blog! You are amazing. I am just 59, ..just, and maybe old enough to be your mom, but you are an inspiration! Waiting to hear about the perie cotton packs and the book looks greAt, too. Love books. Cheryl
ReplyDeleteI'm in for a copy, my local bookstore doesn't have it yet, so I'm banking on winning!
ReplyDeleteWinging it is relaxing and really a way to get the creativity rolling. Love what you did, and definitely in on the book!
ReplyDeleteThat Confetti quilt is my favorite and I would love to win a copy!
ReplyDeleteAfter many years of sewing clothes, and disdaining quilts, I have all of a sudden become obsessed with them. I read about this book last week and was going to go out and buy myself a copy. Will hold off in case I am the lucky winner. But will certainly buy it if I do not.
ReplyDeletelove the florals!! a copy for me??
ReplyDeletelooks like a fun book.lindagerig@sbcglobal.net
ReplyDeleteI want one! I want one! Beautiful quilt blocks. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeletewow, wow, wow, now this sounds like a quilt book not only can I sink my teeth in...but use my hands to get what's in my head OUT!
ReplyDeleteLusting over this book! I even went to a local bookstore to see if I could find it but it musta been sold out :) I'm making a quilt for my cousin as a wedding gift so I'd love the inspiration!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the review - looks like a great book!
ReplyDeleteGreat book, I will be keeping my fingers crossed!
ReplyDeleteIt is a great book, got to flip through one at a quilt shop a few weeks back, but sadly went home without it... Maybe I can win one!?!
ReplyDeleteThis looks like a wonderful book. I hope I win a copy.
ReplyDeleteOoohh....I would love to win a copy of that book. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteThis is by far one of the best reviews I've read of any book, really. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteI love the hexagon quilt in this book!! Thanks for the give away!
ReplyDeleteI'm always stuck with what to say when you can leave anything in a comment! I'll just say I have been following this book blog tour with no luck so far so shall continue and see if I will be a winner!
ReplyDeleteYes please! And oooooh those Liberty prints. I would love some inspiration to get me off my well beaten path!!
ReplyDeleteSounds like a great book with a fantastic premise.
ReplyDeleteCount me in, please!
quilt blocks rock!
ReplyDeleteI would LOVE to have this book!
ReplyDeleteWoot! I would just *love* to win this book!
ReplyDeleteGreat review - I love the books that make you just jump right in!
ReplyDeleteWow! Sounds like a truly inspiring book and makes me want to learn to quilt so would love this book! Thanks for the chance to win it!
ReplyDeleteFingers crossed!
ReplyDeleteI'd love to win the book! What a lovely write-up.
ReplyDeleteI would love to win this book. Fan4may at aol dot com.
ReplyDeleteImprovisation is key for me... The creative juices really flow then. Love your writting Anna Maria. :-D
ReplyDeleteThat looks like such a fun way to make a quilt top! I would love this book!
ReplyDeleteThank you for the lovely meditative post this morning. It was nice to pause and remember something I love about quilting.
ReplyDeletexoxo
April
I would love, love, love a copy of this book.
ReplyDeleteLove your block! Thanks for the review and chance to win.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like a spectacular book! I'm a new quilter.. only one almost done, but tons in my brain. You, Anna Maria were the first to inspire me to try my hand at the craft and now I'm in love with the whole shebang! Thank you for letting us into your minds eye when we read this blog, you truly are a special woman.
ReplyDeletemamaisaac09(at)gmail(dot)com
Oooh!! I want one, please! Would love to see all the intricacies of these blocks!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the giveaway! Would love to start some projects from that book!
ReplyDeletecommonthreads@me.com
You and Denyse are so rigth - the best part is about doing something with your own hands and then having it as a reminder of a certain period of your life. So beautiful! Thanks for the chance to share in the fun!
ReplyDeleteWould love my own copy!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the chance :)
This book has been on my wishlist for a while now! it would be amazing to win it:)
ReplyDeleteThe book sounds wonderful and it's so good to see your project taken from it! I'd love to win a copy and be inspired to make my own blocks - thanks for the opportunity!
ReplyDeleteoohh ooo! pick me ;-) it is always a delight to see what you have been making!
ReplyDeleteThis book looks so wonderful! It would be fun to read about these talented women!
ReplyDeleteOne of my favorite quotes is by Geri Weitzman: sometimes you gotta creat what you want to be a part of.
ReplyDeleteThat's what I did last summer. I wanted to be a part of a quilting bee, so I started my own, Bee Vintage, on flickr. A year later, I'm flying across the country to visit one of my bee friends! (See you Tuesday, Linda!)
I love your idea of using different colors instead of one solid background. And what a great way to use up some scraps!
ReplyDeleteI can't wait to get this book! Be it winning it or purchasing it, it looks fabulous!
ReplyDeleteMan, count me in for the book! If anything, I'm learning of a bunch of new blogs to learn from.
ReplyDeleteThis post totally makes me want to buy that book! If I don't win one I will seriously consider dipping into my "fun money" to get it!
ReplyDeleteBlessings!
This book looks so inspiring. I love your take on the confetti block.
ReplyDeleteYour stack of liberty fabrics makes me want some even more, they are so beautiful and work beautifully with yours.
Many of my books are borrowed from the library, but this book is definitely one I want to own - pouring over the pages and trying new techniques. I'd love to win a copy!
ReplyDeleteME ME!
ReplyDeleteLove your interrpretation--and I would love to have this book!
ReplyDeleteI love what you have done so far! Very inspiring! I get it and want to get started with some of your yummy fabrics!
ReplyDeleteThanks for introducing us to this delightful book. Maybe I will be the lucky winner!
Laurie~
This looks like a pretty fabulous book. I desperately need some inspiration. But my real reason for commenting is to find out what that wonderful fabric with the big blue roses and butterflies is.
ReplyDeleteWould love to win!
ReplyDeletejtatemichi (at) sasktel.net
I would love to own this book! I am also determined to find twelve sewing friends with whom to recreate this experience - how wonderful!
ReplyDeleteNEAT.
ReplyDeleteReally different take on the confetti block. Love how a simple swap of fabric can totally transform a block.
ReplyDeleteI would love to win this book! Pick me!
ReplyDeleteGretchen- that is one of my voile pieces from the Loulouthi collection:
ReplyDeletehttp://store.annamariahorner.com/lovo.html
hope that helps! :), Anna
I've been following the Blog. I am loving the book!
ReplyDeleteWhat a unique process and concept. I can imagine being part of such a lovely group project. Thank you for the exposure to this book and project, for sharing your experience and project, and for the giveaway opportunity.
ReplyDeleteFind myself gravitating to the modern way of quilting. Love the confetti quilt. nyles@dejazzd.com
ReplyDeleteI love seeing how you put your own spin on one of the patterns from the book!
ReplyDeleteReally wanting to get back to quilting. This book looks inspirational!
ReplyDeleteThanks for a chance to win this fun book.
ReplyDeleteSounds like a great book! Count me in! I hope to get quilting after I finish my wardrobe capsule for our Greece trip.
ReplyDeletewhat an inspirational project and book - fabulous
ReplyDeleteEnjoyed reading about your experience with the book. Thanks for the giveaway.
ReplyDeleteYes please! (Love the idea of a quilt that you can use "special fabrics sparingly" with - I have a lot of those fabrics that I am reluctant to cut into.) Thanks!
ReplyDeleteI'd love to win a copy of this book! If I won it and you stuck a scrap of Liberty in between the pages I'd be over the moon!
ReplyDeleteOh, how I'd love to win! I had the pleasure of meeting Alissa (and Denyse) a couple of weeks ago, and I know what you mean about her being inviting. Can't wait to see the book!
ReplyDeleteI would love to have a copy. The book looks so wonderful.
ReplyDeleteOh, I would love to win, but may have to have it either way!! I am so inspired by your posts! Thank you for this giveaway!
ReplyDeleteOooh... looks like a fantastic book! Love the colours you have used in your quilt.
ReplyDeleteso enjoyed reading your review and your river rock voile is just the most wonderful colour. i have a little which i am mixing in with some boyish liberty lawn to make a quilt for my little boy.
ReplyDeleteallie
fivejeppesens@gmail.com
I just made an orange and gray confetti block for a quilt that members of my MQG are making. So fun!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great post - so well written!
ReplyDeleteI'd love to win a copy of this book!
Giving ourselves freedom once in a while is crucial. Whether time constraints, design constraints or simple left-brain constraints, we usually forget to let go and let "It" happen. I'm so happy you got time to play like this.
ReplyDeleteRead your interview with sew4home and really enjoyed it.
ReplyDeleteThis is one book that would like to win and use to make some quilts - a mini block party with my mother to make the one that looks like a log cabin. Please enter me into the drawing. Thanks for the stop on the blog tour.
I am aching to begin quilting - this looks like the perfect introduction with no hard and fast rules!
ReplyDeletethis makes me wish i had 11 other women (or men) around me who love to quilt. I would love a copy of this book. Maybe it will inspire me to teach others the basics of this art I love. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteOh keeping my fingers and toes crossed to win this lovely book.
ReplyDeleteWhat a fun looking book! I really need it!
ReplyDeleteSo cool! If only I had 11 real life friends who quilt....
ReplyDeleteThis looks like a great book!
ReplyDeleteoh goodness, this looks like a lovely book...
ReplyDeletethis book looks so inspiring. i love the background story of the 12 women and 12 quilts! thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteyes please! i love the idea of creating something that allows everyone to get a piece of someone else...
ReplyDeletewhat an amazing idea and a beautiful book. I'd love the inspiration of these women for my future quilting projects
ReplyDeleteThis book sounds really intriguing! I love the idea of sharing blocks with friends.
ReplyDeleteI really want to see this book in person after reading all of your comment. If it inspires you it must be a book I need. You are an inspiration to me. Thanks
ReplyDeleteI'd love to have a copy ! Thanks for the giveaway.
ReplyDeletei'd love to win a book! i've only made 2 quilts but i'm eager to make more!
ReplyDeleteoh yes, this would be a great book to have.
ReplyDeleteYay! I would love to win!
ReplyDeleteoh my goodness, i'd love a chance to win this fabulous book!
ReplyDeleteI could not agree more with the sentiment that doing is learning... Or vice versa. Though I so rarely give myself the permission to play, and possibly, fail.
ReplyDeleteThis book is on my list. I'd love to have a copy and maybe assemble my own bee.
ReplyDeleteCrazy, crazy, crazy!!!! I'm in a frame of mind where I need some inspiration...I would love the book!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the chance to win, the confetti block/quilt is my fav.
ReplyDeleteWhat a super prize - yes please, I would find that book so inspirational in my embryonic quilting career. x
ReplyDeleteI am loving this book!! Thanks for the chance to win it!
ReplyDeleteoh .... thanks for such an awesome giveaway ... it would be well treasured & used aplenty! blessings
ReplyDeletesounds lovely!
ReplyDeleteLove your block!
ReplyDeleteI think this book would give me the motivation I need to try improvisational piecing! Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteThis book looks beautiful and inspirational. Would love love love my very own one to hold and to peruse at leisure. Thanks for this golden chance.
ReplyDeletePick me!
ReplyDeleteI would love this book! Thanks for the opportunity.
ReplyDeleteThis book sounds terrific.
ReplyDeleteThe less time I have, the more great projects I see and want to try... sigh. Thanks for the generous giveaway!
ReplyDeletePlease, Please, Please, please pick me!!!
ReplyDeleteI just started getting into quilting and would love to win it :)
ReplyDeleteThe book looks amazing!! I love the colors you chose for your blocks.
ReplyDeleteI'd love a copy of this book.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the chance.
Andi x
What a wonderful idea, I want to start my own bee! Thanks for the chance!
ReplyDeleteA while back, a bunch of us from a quilt guild took a color and design for quilting class from a local instructor. We decided to reward her with a quilt of "crazy" pieced apple blocks, a block made by each of us. The effect was gorgeous with red, green and yellow apples and she was so thrilled!
ReplyDeleteI would love to try some of these quilts they are just lovely
ReplyDeletePick me! Pick me!
ReplyDeleteO-o-o-o....I was just needing this sort of inspiration. Thanks for sharing!!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great collaboration of quilters - how fun! :)
ReplyDeleteI have this book on my wish list but the bills have to come first.... I go to the bookstore occasionally and fondle it, but always put it back. It's a luxury. BTW I can't get enough of the Summer Totem Tart fabric. It's really beautiful and my friend gave me a yard of it as a happy day present!
ReplyDeleteYou put so much love into all you do, no wonder you are successful!! I would love this book so I can jump into a little improv!!
ReplyDeleteHey, way to improvise! Yes, Yes, Yes, I really want a copy of this book! (please) It's tough to bust out of accurate piecing, points that don't disappear and seams that match, but I'm willing to through caution to the wind and try.
ReplyDeleteWould love to win this book for my wonderful sister Debra!! She is a big time fan of all of your fabrics, just like me! She is my inspiration and motivator! Even though we do not live near each other we sometimes work on the same quilt patterns!
ReplyDelete