Quilt stencils bolster library's collection —March 21, 2008
Three years ago the Hastings Quilt Guild started a new tradition to honor their outgoing President and thus was born the quilt stencil collection at the Hastings Public Library. The latest additions to the collection, honoring Kathy Haverly, are now ready to check out at the library.
The 12 new design templates include blocks such as Interlude, a swirl of hearts, Tulip Fantasy and Feathered Wreath, a large spiral that ends in swooping tendrils. The borders range from an inch high pattern simply called Waves to the larger Boo which incorporates friendly ghosts and the word “boo” for the perfect complement to a Halloween quilt or wall hanging.
Checking out one of these stencils from the library is an easy way for the experienced quilter to expand his/her collection, but it is also a boon for the beginning quilter, who can experiment with different designs without having to invest in all these stencils. If you are a beginner, you may also want to check out some of the numerous quilt books at the library.
A good starting point for the beginner would be “Patchwork Made Easy” by Peigi Martin and Susan Young. It includes information on basic cutting, piecing and quilting techniques and patterns for small to medium sized projects that won’t overwhelm the beginner. “The Complete Quilting Course” by Gail Lawther is another title that includes basic equipment and technique information, but also offers a few more ambitious projects and techniques. Lawther’s book does include several projects starting with pre-printed fabric panels, however, that make a project go together more quickly.
For the more experienced, Earlene Fowler and Margrit Hall share 12 quilt projects from their Benni Harper mystery series in “Benni Harper’s Quilt Album”. Along with the illustrated quilt patterns and diagrams, Fowler has included some short stories that are not part of the novels and photos of the authors and many of the locations that inspired the settings of the books.
Rita Weiss and Linda Causee bring a whole new dimension to quilting in their book, “Memorabilia Quilts: Fabulous Projects with Keepsakes & Collectibles”. This title will teach you how to transform family pictures and correspondence into beautiful quilts, or honor a relative by turning neckties or t-shirts into a family heirloom. There are also plans for several “showcase” quilts to use as display areas for dog show ribbons or a favorite collection of pins.
Whether you want to start quilting or pursue a life-long passion, check out the quilting resources at the Hastings Public Library.
