by Susan Carlson

Signed by the Author

8.5 x 11 inches, 96 pages

$27.95 plus S&H

Press Reviews

Quilting Arts, 8/1/10

In this guide to free-spirited fabric collage, Susan Carlson begins by chronicling her struggles to achieve a less restricted approach in her work. She proceeds to share the discoveries that transformed her technique through a series of projects (each accompanied by a pattern) that increase in difficulty, gradually acclimatizing the reader to her unique method of quilt construction. The first project is a simple spiral quilt, constructed using the essential components of Carlson's approach: drawing an underlying image, selecting fabrics, and gluing them in place. More complex projects include a sun and moon portrait, a beta fish design, and a mandala quilts. Carlson's instructions go far beyond methodical, step-by-step directions as she includes anecdotes about her personal experiences, design advice, and ideas for how to make your collaged quilts unique. The artist's gallery at the end of the book, full of vibrantly colorful quilts inspired by a wide variety of subjects (from freshly caught fish to smiling pumpkins and beetles), will undoubtedly inspire you to loosen up your collage approach as well.

Fabrications, 10/2010

Take the next step in free-style quilting with four projects which go from beginner to advanced and create beautiful, color-rich impressionistic quilts. The clear, visual lessons help you to 'let go of the rules' and Susan's free-hand cutting techniques guide you to turn cast-off fabric pieces into new design discoveries.

Student Reviews

I just got your book and it is fantastic!  Beautiful photos, clear instructions, and so much fun to see the ones I saw "up close and in person" last year at Asilomar!

Fondly,

Betty

I came across your book Serendipity Quilts this afternoon.The point of writing was to let you know what a truly inspirational artist you are... you should be very proud of producing such a wonderful book. 

Deb

I am a quilter trying to move on from the “cut strips, blocks and sew methods”. When I stumbled upon your work--Serendipity Quilts--I was blown away. They are truly awesome.  I am currently in the process of creating a wall hanging for our guild’s “houses” challenge. After buying your book, I have changed my concept and am attempting to make this piece using your methods.

Many thanks for your help.

Beverly

I am in love of your "freestyle" quilts.  I have had the book from the local library three times now and use a magnifying glass to see all the details.  One thing that I ( and my husband) just love about your book is the fact that you put in photo swatches of the fabric that you have used in the shown quilts.  Hunting for that fabric and realizing how you have used it has opened my eyes !!!  Never would I have thought to use such fabric in those ways.  I now look at fabric in a totally different way.  I am now even looking at clothing on people in the check out lane at the supermarket and fantasizing how to use them in a quilt. Thank you for such pleasure, although the people in line may think that I am looking at them in strange ways, I am having fun ! 

Cheri