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Crazy
Quilt Décor
by J. Marsha Michler Crazy quilted lampshade, bell pulls, doll, tote, “Chicken on a Stick,” coiled basket, picture frame, tin can vase and Matted Mirror Jewelry Holder;...this is definitely thinking outside the box. All these crazy quilted projects are offered in addition to those that are a little more traditional, such as; wall hangings, pillows, chair and table covers, and a blanket and child’s quilt. Additionally, the décor themes include country, whimsical, Oriental, western, and of course, Victorian. This is a welcome departure from the exclusively Victorian designs that are usually offered in crazy quilt books and patterns. J. Marsha Michler is an acknowledged expert in crazy quilt design. A researcher, designer and writer, she has previously published several books on crazy quilting; including “The Magic of Crazy Quilting, 2nd Edition,” which covers 100 diagramed embroidery stitches and 1,000 variations and combinations. Her experience is evident in this well organized and illustrated instruction book. The three basic methods of crazy quilting; top stitch appliqué, confetti piecing, and the antique method are covered, as well as several additional methods. A helpful, timesaving feature of each project is the “Toolbox” in which she lists specific techniques used and the pages on which they are explained. Several innovative methods are a departure from her earlier books; such as leaving exposed seams in confetti piecing, a “stained glass” variation, faux crazy quilt, crazy quilt with leather and collage quilting. This publication brings a contemporary sensibility to a very old technique, and will appeal to people, myself included, who haven’t been particularly drawn to crazy quilt design in the past. Crazy Quilt décor will also appeal to those who love crazy quilting and are looking for some new ideas. I have started my collection of fabrics and threads, and plan to start a crazy quilt project utilizing this book with its detailed, step-by-step instructions. The “Far East Fanfare Quilt…With Butterflies” would look great in my home. Review by Diana Norris |
