It's a Stitch: 21 Patchwork Quilt Projects with an Eye on Tradition

Even though today's quilters can have their pick of fashionable hand-dyed fabrics, vibrant colors, and bold, dramatic, contemporary prints, it's easy to understand why beloved old patterns such as Log Cabin and Double Wedding Ring have stood the test of time. There are so many possible variations of every traditional pattern in this collection that it's nearly impossible to run out of ways to make fabulous quilts for every home, taste, and occasion.

Quilters will find their creativity challenged as they devise their own interpretations of Schoolhouse, Amish, Star, Basket, and Nine Patch quilts. The 21 beautiful, easy-to-make projects range from quilts for twin-, queen-, and king-sized beds to spectacular wall hangings. Step-by-step directions and hundreds of how-to illustrations ensure that even beginners will complete these projects with ease, while numerous "Sew Easy and Sew Quick" boxes offer in-depth guidance on tricky situations. "Isn't Quilting a Stitch?" tip boxes add to the fun.

Whether the quilt is for the quilter's own home or for a special occasion gift, there's nothing like a homemade, comfortable, snuggly quilt to warm heart and hearth.

Karen Bolesta, editor of Rodale's Colorful, Casual, and Comfy Quilts and Scrap Quilt Celebration, has been editing craft and quilt titles for 15 years. She lives in Allentown, Pennsylvania.