Ricky Tims Convergence Quilts by Ricky Tims
ISBN 1-57120-217-X,  Soft cover, 80 pgs., $23.95, 2003, C&T Publishing, Inc., P.O. Box 1456, Lafayette, CA 94549, 925-677-0377 (International), 800-284-1114 (USA) or www.ctpub.com       

In 1991, Ricky Tims sat down at his Granny’s old Kenmore sewing machine and started his first quilt.  The rest, as they say, is history.  A talented conductor, composer, arranger, music producer and performing artist, Ricky has also become well known in the quilting world. 

Ricky begins his story of growing up in Wichita Falls, Texas, and his story remain entertaining throughout.  His enthusiasm and folksy presentation make this book a pleasure to read. He describes how he “accidentally” discovered his convergence method of piecing and how his music background often influences the names of his quilts such as Harmonic Convergence. I really enjoy how he shares his process of creating the early convergence quilts.                                 

 Simply put; a convergence quilt features two or more fabric designs that are cut into strips and then merged together.  Although Ricky shares exactly how he makes the quilts, he is also quick to support experimentation by the student.  He also encourages the reader to treat convergence quilts as “mystery quilts” and to not “over-plan.”

 His instruction begins with descriptions of the six gradation possibilities; left edge, right edge, bottom edge, top edge, inside out and outside in.  Of course, a discussion of cutting varied strips would not be complete without including the Fibonacci sequence.  He then moves on to a discussion of how to choose fabric and cutting and sewing techniques.                

 Project One provides instructions for the Original Harmonic Convergence.  I took a class in this technique and I have to say that I am glad I did.  I found the cutting, turning and sewing of the strips to be challenging at times.  I was nice to have an instructor to guide me.  However, the illustrations and diagrams in Rick’s book are quite clear and I believe that most people could follow them.

Next is a wonderful, colorful gallery of Harmonic Convergence Quilts that will send you right to your fabric stash.  This is followed by a gallery of quilts that have been expanded by the use of borders and appliqué.

Project two is a Divide and Conquer Convergence Quilt, a quick and easy variation using gentle curves.  His method of joining the curves together looks easy and I’m anxious to try it.

 Project three, the Grand Convergence, is more complicated; combining the first two methods.  In this method, you cut curves and piece.  You then cut this into strips and re-piece.     
                                                                                                                                       
Project four is the Blended Convergence.  In this one, you cut same sized strips, piece, turn, cut and rearrange on block off.  Sounds confusing but the diagrams illustrate the method perfectly.

Rick’s book concludes with photos of three virtual quilts and a gallery of what Ricky calls What ifs.  It is truly amazing where his students have taken this method.  The possibilities appear to be endless. You will find the quilt photos are truly inspiring.  If you want to explore an exciting, new technique of quilting, buy Ricky Tims Convergence Quilts.

 Review by Diana Norris