Quilt in a Day - Book Review

With a title like Make a Quilt in a Day – Log Cabin Pattern, how can you not be interested? This book by Eleanor Burns is a must for any quilter’s bookshelf. The pattern is easy, looks gorgeous and versatile.

 

What’s Inside

As the book states, this is just one pattern – the log cabin. Included are yardage requirements for all sizes from wall hanging to a king size quilt. The author even includes layout ideas.

 

The secret to the book is the technique. By using strip piecing techniques, quilters are able to piece more accurately and finish a quilt top without cutting up tiny pieces of fabric.

 

Other projects in the book are a pillow sham and a tote bag. Either one of these projects would be great for someone wanting to dip their toe into quilting without committing to an actual quilt.

 

Problems

It really is only one pattern. If you do not know that when you purchase the book, you may think that you are not getting your money’s worth.

 

There is no mention of fusible batting or quilt basting spray. The only technique outlined when it comes to holding the quilt sandwich together is with safety pins.

 

The term “quilt in a day” is misleading. You could easily finish a baby quilt or a lap robe’s quilt top in a day. Beginners can not, however, finish an entire quilt in a day.

 

In an effort to keep things simple, this book does not give the standard way of creating binding strips.

 

What it Does Well

It has a shopping list for rank beginners. Perfect. Her suggestions are on the mark.

 

The yardage requirement for each size quilt is generous. You will not have to worry about running out of fabric. Basically, you only have to go to your local quilt shop with the book, pick out your fabric and have it cut.

 

The best part, however, is the step-by-step instructions with pictures. You really can finish a log cabin quilt as a beginner with just this book.

 

The different layouts for the log cabin patterns are included.

 

The book includes a paste up sheet for copying so that you can see the design of your quilt before you make it. This one step will give you confidence to create your own combinations and not rely on those only in a book.

 

Tips

If the 2 ½ inch strips intimidate you, change the strips to 1 ½ inches for a smaller quilt. If you plan to make a gift, you can give both the smaller and larger quilts to the recipient.

 

Copy the layout page that you have selected and pin it to a place visible to where you quilt. This one step will encourage you to keep quilting.

 

This Book is For

Beginners especially. It should definitely be one of your first projects. More advanced quilters will want it on their shelves as a Tried and True pattern they can easily complete.

 

Recommendation

This is a definite buy. My copy is well-loved, water stains and all.