Crafted Applique Blog Hop and Giveaway (CLOSED)

Today is my turn to share my opinion of {BuzzinBumble} Lara B's new book, Crafted Applique... New Possibilities. She asked friends and fellow bloggers to read the book and make something with her technique. AND we get to give away one of her books to our readers! Keep reading for more information.

Lara explains her applique method and its variations extremely well. It makes using the tiniest pieces possible... without fraying. Just look at Heidi's work on Red Letter Quilts. She made the most detailed circles (for Quilty 365) and then designed adorable reindeer. Wow!

In addition to being so clever, Lara is a talented artist. Her book contains seven unique projects, each in a different style. I love the Mid-century Modern vibe of the camper on the cover but she also has a folk art throw quilt, a realistic moth on a pillow and a sewing machine cover that doubles as a gingerbread house. All the patterns and instructions are included in the book. Take a look at her blog for more project photos and more giveaway chances.

You will want to keep an eye out for future patterns from this talented quilter.

Although you don't see much evidence on my blog I actually know how to applique. I just haven't done much for a long time. Lack of practice made me quite hesitant to draft a design. Several quilts-in-process call for applique so I simply must buckle down. Finally I chose to make a pillow using leftover arcs from my Polka Dot quilt. {Starting small and easy for once.}

I sewed selvedges diagonally to a backing and batt as a foundation. Next I prepped the fabric as Lara taught then laid the arcs in interlocking circles.

Selvedge strings on the diagonal form the base layer, then quarter arcs are arranged on top to create circles on this pillow.

I pressed them with an iron and press cloth then sewed a straight stitch with matching thread on each circle. Here's the finished top - soft, pliable, and fray-less! It will be smaller once I sew the pillow back. I want to keep it but it's promised already. Guess I'll have to make another.

Linked circles appliqued
on top of selvedge strings create this pillow top.

There are several ways to get a copy of Crafted Applique.

1. Leave a comment on this post telling me how this technique will help you. I'll draw one name on June 4 and Lara will mail your copy.
2. Enter a giveaway on one of the other blogs.
3. Order a signed copy directly from Lara's Big Cartel shop.
4. Order a copy from AQS.
5. Order a copy on Amazon. They've already sold out twice.

By the way, the linkup for AHIQ is still active. Take a look at the talented quilters there and consider joining in.

Enjoy the day, Ann