QUILTING, PATCHWORK & APPLIQUÉ

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QUILTING, PATCHWORK & APPLIQUÉ

 

 

 

 

Trends in Quilting 2023

As the Christmas break approaches it is time to reflect on trends in quilting, patchwork and appliqué based on the bestseller list for the year.

Modern Quilting

Modern quilters often experiment with unconventional patterns and techniques, characterized by bold colours, geometric designs and negative space which is reflected on the bestseller list. Two Australian based authors continue to lead the way – Rachael Dodd (aka Rachaeldaisy) with Whizz Bang! and Chris Jurd with Big, Bold & Beautiful –as does Tula Pink's City Sampler: 100 Modern Quilt Blocks.

Traditional Quilting

Rooted in cultural heritage, traditional quilting has been passed down through generations, preserving a rich legacy of craftsmanship. The resulting quilts serve as cherished works of art, embodying a connection between history, craftsmanship and creative expression which was certainly reflected in bestsellers such as Calico & Stitch, Quilts for Life 2, Stitches of Time, Dutch Heritage, Quilted Treasures, Seams Like Yesterday and The Vintage Flower Sampler Quilt.

Technology Integration

Quilters are embracing technology for design inspiration, pattern creation and even using computerized sewing machines. Digital tools and software can aid in designing intricate patterns and making the quilting process more efficient, so it is no surprise that two software packages from the Electric Quilt Company appear on the bestseller list: Electric Quilt 8 (EQ8) Quilt Design Software and BlockBase+ along with “how-to” books EQ8 Lessons for Beginners and EQ8 Designing More Quilts.

Art Quilts and Fibre Art

Quilters are increasingly exploring quilting as a form of art. This involves using quilting techniques to create unique, expressive pieces that may be more about artistic expression than traditional functionality. Three of the standout books that appealed to customers in the last year included Create Landscape Quilts, Kaffe Fassett's Timeless Themes and Improvisational Contemporary Quilts.

Favourite Authors

There is no surprise that authors with long, productive and creative careers are well-represented on the bestseller list for the year. Willyne Hammerstein published the fifth in her passacaglia series with Millefiori Quilts 5. The perennial favourite Kaffe Fassett continued to enthral with two new books, Kaffe Fassett's Quilts by the Sea and Kaffe Fassett's Timeless Themes, both well-received by quitters and fibre artists. Barbara Brackman’s storied career was highlighted by strong interest in the third edition of her Encyclopedia of Pieced Quilt Patterns. The mother and daughter team of Pam & Nicky Lintott continued to entice new converts with both The Best of Jelly Roll Quilts and Quilts from Quarters proving to be popular. Finally, there is the one and only Yoko Saito who is rightfully held in high esteem by just about everyone with Yoko Saito's Handheld Patchwork Treasures just one example of her creative masterpieces on the list for the year.

And Number 1 for the Year?

Hands down, Calico & Stitch toped the bestseller list and, as we eagerly await a new shipment due in January that is already nearly fully subscribed, this book is odds on to be near the top again in 2024.