Table of Contents

Chapter One - Who Quilts Today and Why

From novices to art quilters, quilters of color and the men at the sewing machine, contemporary quilters come in all stripes. Today's quilt boom has taken the craft to a new level. Plus, a comprehensive guide to quilt guilds, from finding kindred spirits to The Order of the Fat Quarter.

Chapter Two - Sewing Now: Tools, Technology, Techniques

Whether you're making quilts by hand or by machine, here's everything you need to know about sewing from designer thimbles to room-sized longarm sewing machines

Chapter Three - More Revolutionary Tools

Rotary cutters, fabric paints, and powerful design software: The technology of quilting has come a long way from scissors, needles and thread. Photo transfer, fabric dyeing, fusibles and applique, plus a beginner's guide to the extraordinary online quilting community.

Chapter Four - Fabulous Fabric and Where to Find It

From the cotton field to the sewing room fabric is at the heart of quilting. Famous (and fabulous) fabric shops: the best online retailers for rare, vintage and international fabrics; how best to store your stash; and a Q&A with fabric designer Amy Butler.

Fabric Lingo: A Glossary

Chapter Five - Great Teachers: So Many Ways to Learn

It's never too late to learn new skills and a great teacher makes every easier. From student etiquette to 24-hour classrooms, there's something for everyone.

Twenty Top Teachers

Alex Anderson, Esterita Austin, Sue Benner, Eleanor Burns, Jane Dunnewold, Caryl Bryer Fallert, Kaffe Fassett, Diane Gaudynski, Becky Goldsmith, Harriet Hargrave, Melody Johnson, Libby Lehman, Ruth B. McDowell, Sue Nickels, Bethany Reynolds, Elly Sienkiewics, Ami Simms and Rick Tims

Chapter Six - For the Beginner

Step one: Get thee to a fabric shop! Here's a primer on buying fabric, putting together the ideal tool basket, finding the perfect space for quilting, the proper care and storage of your quilts, and the four secrets to quilting success

Chapter Seven - Putting It Together

A step-by-step guide to the creation of a quilt: making the top, choosing the batting, binding the "sandwich," finishing it off by machine or by hand and displaying your handiwork.

Twelve Projects from Notable Quilters

Need a Gift Next Week Tied Quilt, Jo Cox's Crib Quilt, Showcase Your Stash Tote Bag, Kiss Quilt, Meg's Bag, Kaffe Fassett and Lisa Prior Lucy's Rosy Quilt, Quilted Keepsake Greeting Cards, Wild and Crazy Fused Ornaments, Scrappy Peter and Paul Quilt, Fruit Tart Pincushion, All That I Am Pillow and Falling Leaves Wall Hanging.

Chapter Eight - Shoot It, Show It, Ship It and More!

A scrap basket of quilting formations: Finding traditional block patterns; what quilters need to know about copyright law; and how to name, hang, photograph, ship and show your quilt. A guide to festivals, shows, retreats and celebrations. What quilt judges look for, tips from a top quilt collector and more!