I'm excited today to be reviewing and giving away a copy of a gorgeous new quilting book, The Improv Handbook for Modern Quilters
by Sherri Lynn Wood. (All images in this post courtesy of Sherri Lynn Wood and Abrams publishing. Affiliate link included.)
I think my first introduction to improv-quilting was seeing the Gee's Bend quilts. They were so different from the traditional quilts I'd always been familiar with and they just spoke to me. There's something so freeing about their imperfection and rule-breaking, and moving in their authenticity. Ever since then I've loved seeing more true improv-style quilts - in other words, quilts that break the traditional rules of quilting and grow without a formalized plan and pattern.
I've experimented with improv quilting a few times and I'm always surprised at how relaxing and inspiring it is to just sew fabric together with abandon. I need to do more of it. So I was excited to get to read Sherri's new Improv Handbook for Modern Quilters.
This book is a guide to the entire process of Improv Quilting - starting by discussing what Improv quilting is, tools, exploring color, a variety of improv-piecing techniques and then 10 different styles or "scores" to inspire you to create your own.
Here are a few variations on the Bias-strip "Petals" theme made by students in Sherri's workshops. (Click on the images themselves to learn more about the individual makers.) This technique takes improv piecing and design to a new level, adding bias curves to your repertoire.
It's fun to see the variety in shape and design from the individual makers - which is part of the beauty of improv-quilting: no two quilts will ever be alike. (Click here to see more of the images from the Bias Strip Petals collection)
This book has beautiful photography, great instructions and is FULL of inspiration to help you on your own quilt-improv journey. It's inspired me to do more improv sewing this summer (also a great way to use up scraps!) Visit Sew Mama Sew to read Sherri's Top Ten Tips for sewing ruler free, to get a taste of what Improv piecing is like.
You can also visit these sites to hear more about the different techniques shared in the book and see more of the inspiring creations to come out of Sherri's workshops. She'll be teaching at QuiltCon again this year and I'd love to get to take one of her classes!
May 4: STC Craft – Score for Rhythmic Grid Gallery
May 4: Plaid Portico – Score for Strings Gallery
May 6: During Quiet Time – Test Quilter Amy Friend
May 8: Wise Craft Handmade – Score for Get Your Curve On Gallery
May 11: Studio Notes – Test Quilter Penny Gold
May 13: Quiltville – Score for Modern Block Improv Gallery
May 15: Peppermint Pinwheels – Test Quilter Stacey Sharman
May 18: Quirky Quilts – Test Quilter Kim McPeake
May 20: PoppyPrintCreates – Score for Patchwork Doodle Gallery
May 22: The Last Piece – Test Quilter Sara Fielke
May 25: Cauchy Complete – Score for Layered Curves Gallery
May 26: Diary of a Quilter – Score for Bias Strip Petals Gallery (you are >HERE<)
May 28: Getting Stitched on the Farm – Score for Improv Round Robin Gallery
May 29: Spoonflower – Score for Showing Up Gallery
May 30: Fresh Modern Quilts – Test Quilter Rossie Hutchinson
I have a copy of The Improv Handbook for Modern Quilters to give away to one of you! If you'd like to enter, leave a comment on this post. Giveaway open until Saturday, May 29 midnight MST.
WINNER:
Laura B
Those petal quilts are beautiful.
grace thorne
wow looks like a fun AND scary book for somebody who struggles with matchy-matchy...i love modern quilts and their colors.....would love to have this!
Karen A
Not my usual style, but I love learning new techniques.
mary jo
Would love to win a copy of this book. (cause if I do no win, then I will have to buy it lol )
Alejandra
I like how quilts are developing into modern more and more, I would love to win this book and learn about new techniques.
JANETTE Maass
I love this..definitely out of the box!
I'm a "pointless" kind of quilter girl. Working with a bias would be interesting for me. (A glass of Wine would probably help this process 😉
AngieSue
Improv's a little scary. I fear wasting all that time and fabric and ending up with something I don't like - but i sure love seeing other people's improv work!
pam w
Awesome books thanks for shading
kris
Love all of these and love the freedom they exhibit!
Merrilee
What fun! I really need to try improv- I've only ever made very structured quilts. Thanks for photos (and giveaway!)!
Doris mccarty
I like scrap quilts, so I'm would like to learn this technique . I think it would be fun. Looks like a great book!
Susan
Oh, what a challenge for someone who has trouble changing a pattern. I think it would be a good exercise for me. I'd love to try. Thanks for the review and chance to win the book.
Rori Jensen
I have been following Sherri Lynn for a while and her techniques look so challenging and "out of the box" thinking for me. I would love to stretch and grow. Thanks for the giveaway.
Shirley
Big step for those of us who like patterns and order in our work. But it seems like it would be fun and freeing. Need that in our lives.
DeborahGun
I would love to learn to improv. piece a quilt. I adore the look of them, but am just not quite sure how to achieve it myself!
Louise
So far I've been a chicken when it comes to improv. The petals are so beautiful; very inspiring!
Gloria
I just finished my first improv quilt and I LOVE the process!! I have been drooling over this book for some time. Thanks for the opportunity to win it!
Jess Anne Cole
I'm taking the leap! Modem quilts here I come. I think I have enough traditional quilts finished to have the basics down. Ready for a new challenge.
AliCia
Would love to try this technique and get out of my comfort zone.
E. A.
That looks like a great resource!
Elizabethdee
This post is dangerous! I've just spent way too much time poring over those pictures and those other links . What a great-looking book. Thanks for highlighting it.
nique
I'd love to try this. Thanks for the opportunity.
Suellen Franze
This might help me broaden my quilting horizons 🙂
rachelle
a new quilter so everything is new, love the opportunity to learn
ann barrett
great quilts
Elizabeth
Love your bias curve pieces. It seems like a fun new technique to try. Thanks for sharing and inspiring.
Kathie L
Looks like color and design inspiration.
Becky T
I keep looking at those curves and marveling with the thought that those are improved!
Nancy A
Oh, that looks like so much fun! Thanks!
Emilee
I will have to add an improv quilt to my ever growing quilt bucket list!! So beautiful!
Lisa Marie
My improv experience is very limited but this book looks like it could motivate me to try more. Thanks for sharing the lovely photos and for the chance to win.
Carley Biblin
Improvising looks like great fun, and would be a good way to move outside one's comfort zone (in a positive way).
EstHer
This looks like a great book to get me out of my normal quilting ideas.
Janequiltsslowly
I have enjoyed the improv quilts I've done. This book looks like a lot of fun & inspiration for more.
LINDA
NEAT! THANKS FOR SHARING A COPY IN THIS GIVEAWAY!
Vikki
I would love to win and try an improv quilt. thanks,
Kath S
I've been following this blog hop and have been impressed by the reviews and seeing the scores made. As a beginning quilter, I'm drawn to improv because it's so forgiving and takes some pressure off the creative process. I'd love to win a copy of this book. Thanks! ktsquiltdreams [at]gmail [dot]com
Shauna
I've not tried improv piecing, but it sounds fun
Margaret
I participated in the improv round robin workshop featured in the book. It was such a fun, liberating experience. I'd love to try some of Sherri Lynn's other techniques.
Karen
What a fun giveaway!
Irena
Would live to have this book & check out improv piecing. Love those vibrant colors! Thanks
Julie J.
I have never tied improv quilting but it could break me out of what I normally do.
audrey
These quilts are just fabulous! Would love to win this book and play with these methods a bit!
Kristen
This book looks so cool!! I love improv quilts sooo much.
Cheri Searles
I love the petal quilts. Thank you for the giveaway!
hugs, Cheri
[email protected]
Stephanie
I really want to try this technique!
Mary D
Improv quilting is certainly a challenge for me. I love the quilts of Gee's Bend and hope to spend some time and learn with these ladies soon.
Sarah J.
This book looks likes so much fun! I would love to get my hands on it and play!
Lindsay
This book looks so neat! I'd love to win a copy.
Torina
I would LOVE to win this book. It's only been in the last few years that I've followed patterns otherwise I'm a improv quilter at heart. I'd love to learn new techniques. Thanks for the opportunity!
Sylvia Coleman
It sure looks like a Fun book to have.
Sylvia
Janie
Thanks for sharing, I do appreciate all the inspiration and good ideas!!
Michelle N
Improv quilting seems to be about letting go of control and just doing it. Something I'm not great at but it would be interesting to see what I can come up with!
Gigi Voegeli
Looks like a great book. would love to get my hands on a copy.
Charlotta Norby
There's nothing not to love about this book. I would really like to have a copy of it; I'm sure it would help me continue to stretch my limits.
Terri in BC
This looks like an amazing book! Thanks for the opportunity!
Nancy Stone
I would like to have the courage to just start a quilt and not know how it would finish.
Sara
The book looks like fun, thanks for the giveaway!!
Jackie
What a great book, such a variety of different styles. Thanks for the chance.
Kathy Davis
I love the quilt that looks like kayaks. It is probably leaves but I see kayaks.
Jodi Gradolph
I'd love to win a copy of "The Improv Handbook for Modern Quilters".
Marion Bryant-Parsons
I love books & am in Australia so I wouldn't even be able to go to one of Sherri's classes at Quilt Com, but a book showing what is to be taught is the next best thing. Ta!!!!!
Marion BP marionbp57(at)bigpond(dot)com
susie
This looks like a great inspiration! Thanks for the lovely giveaway chance!
Nancy A
I have never done this kind of sewing. Looks like a good book to have.
Sharon eshlaman
Wow what a great book. It sure would help me get out of my strict matching issues. Help me, please.
Thanks for a chance. [email protected]
KimberlY
The projects in the book look great
Andi
looks like a wonderfully inspiring book! Thanks for the giveaway.
Shari
This is the book for me! My improv needs some direction so my work turn out beautiful not bleagh:-)
Nanna
Love the way improvisational quilts look but I'm a bit nervous to give them a try. This book sounds like it might help me overcome my fear of ruining some wonderful fabrics.
Sherri
the book looks beautiful! Looking forward to always learning something new.
Allison
I would love to have a copy of this book! It looks like there are tons of new ideas for me to try!
Joanne Lee
I'm just now becoming a fan of modern quilts. Would love this book!
stanleybeagle
such a cool looking book
Loretta
I'm really interested in learning more about improv and modern quilting. This book looks like a fabulous place to start!
amy deason
Would love to have this book!!!!!!!!! So colorful. Thanks
Andrea franklin
This book sounds positively liberating!!!! I'd be so excited if I won a copy. It would be so fun to try the projects.
Melody Lutz
My machine and I are ready!
linda schiffer
I would love to wina copy of this book!!
🙂 Linda
Margo
I love them all! How would you pick? Thanks for the chance to win your giveaway!
Sarah
Looks like SO MUCH FUN!!
Susan Brehm
Omg I need this book! I just found out about the Gees Bend quilts two weeks ago and have made two small quilt tops trying improv piecing. I love it! Thanks for the giveaway!
LynneP
The petal quilts are so lively. Love the shapes. Thanks for the chance to win.
jlpfeffer at gmail dot com
Michele
Improv is beautiful and scary!! Thank you for the great giveaway?
Michele
Improv is beautiful and scary!! Thank you for the great giveaway.
BRenda F
Beautiful book. Thank you for the opportunity.
Pam
This book looks awesome! I have been wanting to try improv piecing and I think this book would give me the push I need!
Veronika
If love to win this book! Improv quilting intrigues me, but I need to learn the basics!
Sandra
Thanks for the giveaway. I really like how this book allows for freedom of expression. LOL
Ann D
I can't even think about being improvisational. This is a mighty interesting book.
Paige
Would love the improv book...I need to be more free!
Sandi
This book looks very interesting and I would love to win a copy. Thanks for the chance to win.
Marcia B
The IMPROV technique would be a great out of the box experience for me! Thanks for the opportunity to win this book!
Susan the Farm Quilter
i would love to make quilts like these!!! Thank you for the opportunity to win a copy of the book!
virginia dale
REALLY LIKE YOUR PETALS!!
Carol
I would like to add some improv projects to my list!
Karen Seitz
This looks like a book to savor...and then set aside and be creative!
Cindy Pilkington
I think would be a nice challenge for me. I do like the look of these quilts, so I do lean toward the modern side of quilting. Thanks for the chance to win.
Beth T.
This book reinforces what I love about quilting--carrying the creativity through the entire process. It sounds like it would be challenging and rewarding and a really dynamic process. Thanks for sharing the pictures and for the chance to enter.
Alice Ronne
Wow! I would love this book. Thanks for the awesome giveaway. Keeping my fingers crossed!
Nicole
I pattern tested for this and can't wait to se the actual book. Thanks!
Alexis
This book looks amazing!
Lizzie in Sweden
I'm not sure if I am eligible to win this book, since I live abroad, but I wanted to share how invigorating it looks! Plus, it's wonderful to see a whole new list of bloggers to check out. Thanks!
jude joNes
thank you! i would love to win a copy!!!
Melodee
I'd love this!
Linda Fleming
The quilts are wonderful and so refreshing!. This would be a great book to have - it's so full of inspiration!
Ellee
Ruler free? That definitely would take me out of my comfort zone. Sounds like something I'd like to learn.
Nicole Sender
I'd love to have a copy of The Improv Handbook for Modern Quilters! I haven't tried this method and would like to learn to do improv-quilting!
craftygramma
Hello-
I was thinking i could use a little less structure. After all, it is Summer!!
thanks
bekki
This book looks like a lot if fun to work from.
Stephanie
Looks like lots of fun to me.
Marty
What a fun book!
Ginny
Love the Petals. I struggle with improv and would love to let go and learn how to piece without a ruler!
Linda S
Loved looking at the pictures posted from the book. I've always done traditional quilts and am trying to do something different. This new book looks inspirational!
Terry sharp
Looks like fun, although definitely out of my comfort zone. I agree that it sounds a relaxing way to create. Thanks for the chance to win
Janeanne
I'm so interested in Improv Quilting and would love to read more about it and the quilters who use it!
Kim
Amazing!! This is the kind of thing that drew me into quilting!
Jane
What a great book! I love that she has come up with various ideas to use as a springboard to creativity! Just what I need to stretch my improv wings!
Josee
Oh looks like a lovely book to curl up with and get some inspiration! Xo
Betsy
This book looks interesting. Love the quilts.
Terry
Beautiful! Looks like fun!
mindingmomma
i love the color combos. i want to branch out into these. thanks for the chance to win.
[email protected]
Suzan
What totally awesome quilts. I am a traditional quilter and I have been looking for new ideas to get out of my quilting rut and quilt for the younger generation. What an eyeful! Enjoy your blog. Thanks so much for sharing
Carol
The petals are so beautiful, I can see them as a center of a bed quilt!
patty
I have been improv piecing for more than five years and it is pretty much the only way I create anymore.
Lana Manis
I'd love a chance to win! I've recently gotten back into quilting and this would be so inspiring!
Jeanette Belz
I have followed Sherri Lynn for a while and I love the work she does. She makes this look easy but just the process of starting seems to be daunting. I would love to read her book and make something inspired from it.
Paula
Would love to have this wonderful inspiration! Thanks for the giveaway!
Michele
Looks like a fantastic and colorful book!
Elaine F.
I really like the photo of the improve-quilt with the dark gray background and the petals (flames) rising up from the bottom of the quilt. I am going to try this idea on a smaller wall hanging. Thanks for the inspiration.
Thea
I'm hoping my local library gets a copy. Of course if I win one they won't need to! I am trying to break out of the "rules" rut and it looks like this is the perfect jumping board.
Anita
The book looks amazing! It could really give me a kick-start into getting out of my comfort zone and creating improvisational quilts on my own.
Kaaren Babb
OH my, how inspiration and fun to see what everyone else is doing! I love the idea of this book.
Barb
This book looks like a great resource. Thanks for the give away!
Missy
I love modern quilting and designs. This book looks awesome. Since I usually don't win giveaways, I just might have to buy it for myself.
AFTON
I love how everyone's work turns out differently!
Karen
My daughter sent me a copy of this amazing book for my birthday! (So I'm not entering the giveaway) I've been so intimidated by Improv--seems like a great mystery I couldn't even begin to solve. But Sherri makes it so clear with each of her "scores" and then shares some of the infinite ways they can be interpreted. It's perfect for a rookie like me, and I'm sure that experienced quilters will love it, too! I'm so glad you're sharing it today.
Toni Leli
I just joined the Modern Quilt Guild and they talk a lot about improv. I need to get started and this book would help.
Emily Kim
Love the idea of improv quilting! Just have to get the nerve to try it!
mary
I think i would like to try improv quilting with some vintage sheets I've been collecting.I like combining unexpected things 🙂
quiltmom anna
what a great new book to check out- love the beautiful improv petals-they look stunning.. thanks for the chance to win such a lovely book.
Regards from Alberta,
Anna
Heather
What fun ideas!
Allison
I've never done any improve quilting, but am intrigued by it.
Dara
Can't wait to see her perspective.
Carol
Those petal quilts are beautiful
Meredith E
Would love to try some of these techniques! The quilts featured are amazing!
Alicia
That looks like it would be such fun to try! Thank you for the give away!
arita
Such a great book that I would love to have.
Jacque T
Oh what an awesome giveaway!! I have done some improv piecing and you are so right, it is sooo freeing just going with it and not having any real rules to follow and yet come up with something amazing! Thank you for the change to win this. Fingers crossed for this one!! 🙂
Susan
These quilts are BEAUTIFUL! I wish I could make one of these.
Being a new quilter, I'm so nervous just putting squares together. lol
One day I'll get there ... Thank you for the amazing pictures!
Lisa
Love scrappy quilts. This bok looks very interesting. Thanks for the giveaway.
Carolyn J
Looks like a very colourful and inspiring book... would love to have this in my hands to stimulate my creativity and play with fabrics in a new and different way.
Sarah C.
Loving these modern quilts they looks so free and inspirational you do not always have to follow the rules.
Kim
Looks fun! And way out of my comfort zone....so it would probably be good for me to try it out!
Deanna
It looks like great fun. Thanks for the opportunity to win.
Sharon T
I have the scraps....all I need is the book!
Susan
These quilts are amazing! I'm a new quilter, (made one baby quilt).
Now I'm attempting a quilt for my granddaughter,
thought she had a twin .... Nope, it's a FULL! So I have a dilemma.
Already cut the 6" squares, and don't have enough fabric.
I also started with a panel, and framed it, so my measurements are all off.
I guess I'll be doing some "Improv"! Winning that book would be a great help.
Kat
Such a lovely approach to quilting.
Rani s
Wow! This book really looks cool.
Amber
This looks like a lot of fun. Like coloring but with my fabrics. Thanks for the chance to win.
Kendra
I love improv work, but I've only done it on small scale things so far (bags, mug rugs, mini quilts etc). Maybe this book will be the kick I need to do it on a big scale!!
muzikalmama
Hmmmm... working without a pattern? Might just give me a nervous twitch! But I love the strippiness (is that a word) of one of them. It looks like something I've been wanting to do! 🙂
Carol Sc
I have done some improve quilting --- I still feel like I am thinking too much --- too many years of traditional quiltmaking. I am happy with my results --- just need to do more of it.
Jessica Lemon
Improv quilts are so intimidating to me! I always see one and think "Oh that is gorgeous, I should make one too!" but when it comes time I'm too scared and I have no idea where to start. These quilts are too cool!
L
This looks so inspiring!
Beth in TN
This book looks like it has quite a variety of styles--all of them fun!
rhoda Lubetkin
Always looking for new ideas and this looks perfect. Love trying curvy piecing.
Buffy
Love this and would love to win the book. I just made my first improv mini quilt...a gift for a dear friend's 40th bday. Finsihed it last night. Cannot wait to give it to her!
Elizabeth
What a great approach to quilting. it's a good way to stay fresh.
SandraR
Yes please! Inspiration for all.
Donna C.
I would love to win this book & learn some new techniques.
Leanne
I love improv quilting. I don't hang on to many scraps and instead use them immediately to quilt potholdera and my patterns are all improved based on what I have.
Marly
What a wonderful book! Thanks for the chance to win a copy.
kelly
Love your blog and would love a book on modern quilting techniques!
Tracie
So fun! Would love to try some improv!
Aubrey
This book looks like a dream! I love it!
Arianna M.
Improv looks like fun! I've never tried it before, this book might be the push I need to give it a try.
Tarnia
Improv is fun, but my efforts so far are only baby steps compared with the quilts in this book. Its been fun following the blog hop, seeing the quilts created by various bloggers. Thanks for the giveaway.
terry aske
I love improv piecing! This book looks like it's packed full of inspiration!
Sue Kaiser
I was just looking at this book on Amazon last night and have it on my wish list.
Sarah
I can't wait to get my hands on this book!
Jacqueline
Hi there Amy,
I am pretty new to the modern quilting scene…I didn''t appreciate them to begin with, but have warmed up considerably and have designed a future project using modern-type prints!
Thanks!
Quilty Huggs,
Jacqueline
teri
Would love to see more of the book. Looks like a lot of fun project ideas.
Julie A
I love the Bias Strip Petals!
Bonnie B
Looks like a very interesting book. Something I haven't ever tried. Would be fun t win the book.
Rochelle
This looks like a delightful book to have. Learning new techniques and mixing them any way you want to get a unique quilt is a great idea. Thanks for the opportunity.
Jen Beatty
I've read a lot about this book and would love to own it, thanks for the chance to win!
Valerie Boudier
Lovely looking book, would make a great addition to my library
Sadie
I love the look of this book! I just added it to my wishlist on amazon. It is definitely my speed, I am a self taught maker of lovely wonky quilts!
T
Love the meditative component off quilting prep & action that Ms. Wood describes. Would be thrilled to have her book. Truly inspirational! Thank you!
usaIrdoll
Beautiful quilts! Would love to step out of my box and give modern quilting a try.
Awesome giveaway!
usairdoll(at)gmail(dot)com
Debbie rhodes
I would love to have this book to add to my library. I think learning this improv would really add to my love of quilting
Anita
This is way out of my comfort zone, but I think it is something I should try.
Nancy A
It looks like a very good book to have and to get me to try this kind of quilting.
Tesuque
The petals are intriguing.
Becca
I would love to learn improv quilting!!
Naomi
I have been following the blog hop and enjoying reading about the process of creating their sample quilts for the book and working with Sherri. What a beautiful and inspiring book! Thanks for the giveaway!
Boo
I would live this book! Can type A people really do improv? 🙂
Garilyn
Those bias petal quilt are gorgeous! Thanks for the chance to win!
Kathy h
I haven't tried any improv quilts yet but like the quilts I have seen. Would like to try one someday.
Crafty Ashley B
What a wonderful book! Going to have to book mark those 10 reasons to improv though!
teri
Looks like a great way to explore modern quilts.
Lisa H.
I've only done a little improv, but I'd like to give it another go -- thanks for hosting this giveaway.
Debbie
Such gorgeous pictures - thanks for the inspiration!
Audrey
Hi Amy! These petals, and all the scores I've seen from this book, look AMAZING. I've done improve but nothing like this and I can't wait to see the book and try it. Thanks so much for a chance to win a copy!
Jean
Looking forwar to learning more improv techniques.
Sarah
I love all the quilts. So many great ideas. Thanks for sharing with the giveaway.
Barbara
I so want to win this book...
Cathy DAvidson
Improv quilting looks like fun! I'm adding this to my 'to learn' list.
Brandy
Very nice. Looks like a great book.
Karen
Thanks for sharing the picture of "untitled" / 58" x 54" /AmyDame. I hadn't seen that one before and really like how the curved petals are used!
Karen Propes
Love the examples from above. I would love to make some of these beautiful quilts Thanks for the chance to win the book.
[email protected]
Heather
This is a style I want to try more of! I recently added the book to my wishlist.
dONNA c
The quilts look so interesting. I would like to try a new technique. Would love to win the book.
Michelle
This book looks amazing! I've been eager to get my hands on a copy since well before publication. Fingers crossed that this is my chance!
carol
Would like to try ruler free quilting. I have so much room to 'improve.'
Tessa from savannah
Dear Amy,
I would really love to win this book. My original passion with fiber arts started in college with appliqué and dyeing techniques and now I teach a fibers class (along with painting and drawing classes) at one of the large public high schools in town. I have recently rediscovered my love of quilts and am now teaching myself how to make them. My style is definitely more improv and I would be so inspired by this book.
If you sent me this book I would share it with all my fibers students and hopefully instill the passion of quilting in them as well!
Thanks, Tessa
Deb
I think i would enjoy this book! I love this style of quilting.