Skip the Borders Blog Tour & Giveaway.
Skip the Borders includes 15 patterns for borderless quilts, suitable for both beginning and intermediate quilters. The book provides a very detailed introduction that describes some of the design principles and helpful hints about the types of quilts that work best without a border. It also includes a section on the basics of making a quilt, piecing together a quilt back, and an entire chapter on binding! I personally love reading these sections because I really enjoy seeing the different ways that people go about making quilts!
"In Formation" Quilt
That being said, there are quilts that I actually want to make in this book! My favorite quilt out of the entire book is "White Stars". I love the contrast between the stars and the background prints! I really want to make a Christmas quilt with this pattern!
Julie: All of the quilts in Skip the Borders are... borderless! Do you skip borders on most of your quilts?
Me: I skip the borders on almost every quilt! Most of the time, I just prefer most of my quilts without them! Using a contrasting binding usually makes enough of a frame around the quilt in my opinion. Although the Cosmos Butterflies quilt I'm working on now does have a border, so there are always exceptions!
Julie: In the intro to my book I give you Permission to Break the Rules. Do you break some quilting rules? What is the number one rule you break and why?
Me: I personally never worry too much about the rules of quilting. I'd rather do what makes me happy than feel constrained by thinking in the box all the time! The number one rule that I break is that I always press my seams open rather than to one side! I find it makes my blocks lie flatter and honestly I just prefer the symmetry of it! It just looks much cleaner to me and makes the seams look nice and crisp from the front. I also almost never use pins, so I guess I am just a quilting rebel :)
Julie: It's no secret that I love binding! In Skip the Borders I included an entire chapter on binding. So the million dollar question, is do you use bias or straight of grain most of the time?
Me: I use straight grain binding pretty much all the time! It's faster to cut and uses less fabric. Of course if I'm using it on a curve I'll use bias, but that's about the only time.
Now for the giveaway! Martingale is giving away an eBook copy of Skip the Borders to one of you!
Update: This giveaway is now closed. Congratulations to the winner of the Skip the Borders eBook, Lindsay!
Don't forget to stop in an check out the other stops on the Skip the Borders blog tour!
Sept. 10th - Generation Q Magazine
Sept. 12th - PS I Quilt
Sept. 14th - Beyond the Reef
Sept. 17th - Pink Chalk Studio
Sept. 19th - Fat Quarter Shop
Sept. 21st - Bijou Lovely
Sept. 24th - Red Pepper Quilts
Sept. 26th - Swatch & Stitch
Sept. 28th - Juicy Bits
Oct. 1st - V and Co
Oct. 2nd - Martingale Publishing
Oct. 5th - Carolina Patchworks
Oct. 8th - I'm a Ginger Monkey
Oct. 10th - Blue is Bleu
Oct. 12th - Quilting is My Therapy
Oct. 15th - Quilt Dad
Oct. 17th - Jaybird Quilts
Welcome to Bijou Lovely. This blog is named after my great grandmother, Bijou Lillian, who encouraged me to embrace all the lovely things that the world has to offer. I hope to provide you with inspiration for sewing, quilting, photography, design, and daily life here at Bijou Lovely! It's truly lovely to have you here.
I look for clean crisp photo's and a duable manual to create the quilt.
ReplyDeleteThe truth is I mostly pick it by the fabrics used in the quilt. And I also look for patterns that are quick and easy with no complicated templates. Thanks for the chance!
ReplyDeleteI totally look for inspirational pictures. Thanks for the give away!
ReplyDeleteThe content of pictures are what draw me to a quilt book...a modern look.
ReplyDeleteI look for great photos and detailed directions! :)
ReplyDeleteI look for great instruction and photos to help me follow along.
ReplyDeleteShawn M.
I like a range of projects from beginners to advanced skills. Lots of clear photos!
ReplyDeleteA range of patterns that I like - I only want to buy a book if it's got at least 2 things I know I'll make!
ReplyDeletePhotos are huge, but I rarely buy a book if there aren't multiple things I want to make. But I've been obsessed with buying books lately so I think that's changing....maybe I just need the inspirational pics. Thanks, Holly!
ReplyDeleteA quilting book should have at least two projects that I seriously plan to complete, but great photography can win me over, too.
ReplyDeleteI think photos of the quilt in differnt color ways is a good thing in a quilt book. I would rather see more photos than spending space in the book for basic instructions. There are plenty of books for quilting basics. Thanks for having the giveway.
ReplyDeleteI look for different techniques and great photos.
ReplyDeleteWho doesn't like a good quilting book?
I like great instructions and new techniques and ideas. That said, I find inspiration in almost every quilting book I buy. Thanks for the giveaway!
ReplyDeleteWhat beautiful quilts! I look for clear instructions. As a beginner quilter, well written tutorials keep me moving to my next project!
ReplyDeleteI like to look for unusual patterns that I could actually make as a fairly new quilter. Julie's book with its borderless quilts looks really intriguing to me!
ReplyDeleteGreat photography, but more so something I can see myself making tomorrow.
ReplyDeleteI want to say the techniques used but its usually great photography that draws me in.
ReplyDeleteI look for techniques explained clearly but good photography and lovely example quilts don't hurt either. Thanks for participating in the tour.
ReplyDeleteI look for inspiration as well as clear directions!
ReplyDeleteInspiring projects that I would actually attempt with clear instructions. I also like reading the authors' tips and techniques (how "she" does things)on quilting, picking colors, etc. Thanks for chance to win this book! (EMAIL: marshudson at comcast dot net)
ReplyDeleteI like projects at a range of skill levels- both doable and aspirational :)
ReplyDeleteI look for quilt patterns that are simple, yet stunning. Oh, and the faster, the better. :)
ReplyDeleteUsually, just seeing the cover pulls me in. After the cover gets me, I look to see if I'll really make any of the quilts. Sometimes it doesn't matterI just LOVE everything and I just have to have it! ;-> Toni Anne
ReplyDeleteRange of skill levels, examples of quilts in different colourways and skills I haven't learned yet
ReplyDeletenridder@hurontel.on.ca
Clear instructions are most important. And simple to piece patterns that look complicated, so people think I'm a great quilter.
ReplyDeleteI usually look for unique ideas. I rarely follow a patterns directions exactly. Even if it's just arranging a "traditional" block in a setting I hadn't considered.
ReplyDeleteLove the photo on her site of the Rows of Bricks pattern...and LOVE the fabrics she chose for that! Beautiful!!!
ReplyDeleteI can't wait to get this book, I only have 1 quilting book so far that was something I won, so I haven't looked for anything in a quilting book yet but I imagine I would look for instructions that are easy to follow & great quilt designs - I'm sure this one won't disappoint and it will be my FIRST quilting book I buy!
ReplyDeleteI look for books that have good picture directions and projects that i think i'll actually make. If there's only 1 i like, i tend to not buy it.
ReplyDeleteI most love books that spark my own imagination and creativity. While I may not make many quilts from patterns as written, even a small detail in a quilt pattern can spark a big idea that I use in my own quilt design. The quilts featured in this blog tour have already sparked a few design ideas and I'd love to win a copy.
ReplyDeleteI look for the the eye candy in the quilting and if the patterns are easy to understand. Jaybird patterns are always well written and a pleasure to piece.
ReplyDeleteWhat I look for is easy patterns...I want quilts that go quickly and that I can easily adapt size to what purpose I am making the quilt for...
ReplyDeleteI looks for clear instructions and easy pattern.
ReplyDeleteGreat pics are what draw me in. Thanks for the chance to win this great book!
ReplyDeleteA great quilting book (or pattern or magazine) has to have good, clear buying and cutting instructions layed out at the start. It bugs me when a pattern says "buy 20 fat quarters" when you only need one three inch strip from some of them (If I'd known that, I could plan to use a big scrap instead of ruleing out a pattern that needs me to buy too much!)
ReplyDeleteAlso, I prefer efficient use of fabric. My first quilts were designed (by me) to be made out of remnants of random lenghts - all I could afford to buy - and use up every last scrap of fabric. I would cut 4 3/4 " squares rather than 5" if it meant that I could squeeze one more piece out of a row, and avoid having a 2, 3, or 4" scrap as waste! (I'm not that picky now, but I still hate "sew this big square then trim off half" style of construction.
I love any book with clever tricks to make cutting and piecing easier and more efficient, and I enjoy doing the math part of quilt planning, so I only buy patterns where this has been well done.
Love the look of this book, and thanks for the review!
Sarah
That is so cool that you are sorority sisters! I agree, white stars is my favorite too!
ReplyDeleteThis looks a great book!
ReplyDeleteI like lots of photos!!
The most important thing that I look for is ideas that are original and fresh.
ReplyDeleteThe most important thing I look for are patterns that I love that inspire me.
ReplyDeleteI look for something different and easy to put together
ReplyDeleteFirst thing I look for a good photos. Sometimes I'll want to make a quilt because of the colors/fabrics the author has used.
ReplyDeletePictures, detailed instructions from start to finish. I really hate it when your almost done and it says finish in your usual way. Umm what if this is your first?? And what if they have a special way that could be better than your usual way? I want to know. Really love what i've seen great job!
ReplyDeleteHELLO! I LOOK FOR CLEAR+DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS AND PHOTOS! THANKS FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A NEAT BOOK!
ReplyDeletemsstitcher1948@yahoo.com
Whenever I get a new quilting book, I immediatly go through the whole thing and look at the pictures. If the pictures catch my attention, I will go back and read the pattern. I need the instructions and fabric requirements to be in the beginning so I know immediatley if the fabric I have in mind for the project will work. I tend to pick the fabric first, then find a pattern that will work with what I have.
ReplyDeletemegromeo@gmail.com
Pictures, pictures, and more pictures! eatkin85@yahoo.com
ReplyDeleteThe most important thing I look for is that the majority of the quilts are something that I think I would like to make someday. I sometimes see quilts that are rather..umm ugly. (sorry)! Not in this book of course. Or blocks that I've seen before, have them in other books, I find them unimaginative., So I want to see inspirational, and imaginative quilts that I havn't seen before, and would really want to make! This book looks exciting!
ReplyDeleteThe pictures of the quilts and if it is something that I would like doing. Love Julie's new book.
ReplyDeleteI think one of the most important things I look for is the pictures, though fabric choices are a close second. I want to be inspired by the books I buy.
ReplyDeleteMost important thing that I look for are good directions and illustrations...I'm a visual person and I like to see the pictures. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteClear and precise directions and a good variety of projects or variations on projects! thank you!
ReplyDeleteAccurate and easy to follow instructions with color illustrations and photos of the finished quilt are the most important things for me in a pattern book. I just love all I have seen of Julie's book and of your blog. keep up the great work ladies!
ReplyDeleteI just found your blog and have read almost all of it. Since I'm just starting out, beginner patterns (that are easy, straight lines!) and very clear instructions are important to me. Also, modern design, since my library has mostly traditional quilting books :(
ReplyDeleteThat I like a lot of the patterns in
ReplyDeletethe book. Thanks for the giveaway!
I've been wanting a new quilt book and I like wait see - would love to win! Pick me:)
ReplyDeleteI have to like more then one pattern, to purchase a book. Good and clear directions are another plus. Pictures are helpful too, as I am very visual, and when I can't figure out the word directions, I rely on the illustrations for help. Thanks for the giveaway. This book looks awesome!
ReplyDeleteAs a new quilter the things I look for are clear, consice instructions and easy to make quilts. I've already taken a peek at this book and I know I'm going to love it! It is on my "must have" list for Christmas/Hanukkah....that is unless I'm the lucky winner.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the giveaway!
For any quilt book I look for very clear instructions with clear pictures of some of the steps that may be more difficult for those who are still unsure of themselves or newer quilters. I am more of a visual learner so those pictures can be invaluable to me in the completion of my quilt I may be working on.
ReplyDeleteI think for me it has to be inspiring. If I'm not inspired while thrumbing through it I'll put the book back down.
ReplyDeleteI mostly look for inspiration in books. As long I can picture myself making most of the quilts, then I'm in!
ReplyDeletechancyf (at) gmail (d0t) com
I look for new and interesting techniques and quilt designs that are unique, and difficult to work up a sample of without the directions.
ReplyDeletethanks for the giveaway. I like what I see in this book so far. I think sometimes a quilt does not need borders. What I look for in a book is how many of the quilts/projects would I love to make. I will generally buy a book if I will make at least 50%.
ReplyDeleteI look at the pictures first....if there are a few pictures of quilts I really like and are doable, then I will want the book.
ReplyDeleteI really want this book.
I really tend to prefer books that use modern fabrics in their designs - even if a pattern is one I like, if it's done with more "traditional" styles of fabric, I tend to find it less impressive.
ReplyDeleteI also enjoy ones that include all the "basics," like just the how-tos of quilting - you never know when someone will have a great tip you haven't seen before that will totally rock your way of doing things!
Thanks for the chance to win!
The projects have to be desirable....and if it's complicated, the directions need to be straight-forward and understandable.
ReplyDeleteThank you! LOVE what I've seen so far!
I look for inspiration. If I look through the book and can't wait to start pulling fabrics and cutting and sewing, I know it's a winner. If I look at the quilts and think they're boring, it doesn't make it to my bookshelves.
ReplyDeleteI love lots of great photos - and when they show it in other colorways is nice too!
ReplyDeleteGood pictures are the most important thing for me every time. A book has to give me some eye candy to win me over :-)
ReplyDeleteClear instructions with pictures or diagrams are important. Pretty color photos are also nice.
ReplyDeleteVery Very Clear Instructions as I am a beginner and I need all the help I can get.
ReplyDeletelisamcgriff at hotmail dot com
Step-by-step instructions. Photos of each step are a wonderful help. Eleanor Burns does a great job with this in her books. I also like to learn tricks and techniques for piecing. I just completed Julie's "Ballerina" pattern using a 12" triangle ruler from Creative Grids. The pattern is clearly written and the quilt went together perfectly. Great fun!
ReplyDeleteThe most important factor in buying a book is the CONTENT. Second is the illustrations.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the giveaway!
When I am deciding whether to buy a quilting book, I count the number of projects I could see myself doing, and if it's more than half of the projects in the book, I'll usually buy it!
ReplyDeleteauntiecrafty@yahoo.com
at least one of the projects must be an eye stopper, must have, gotta make pattern!
ReplyDeleteAs a beginning quilter, the first thing I look for in a quilting book or magazine is "is the pattern really doable" for my level of quilting.
ReplyDeleteClear pictures of every quilt with clear, consise directions. I have had some where the directions are so bad you wonder how it gets published.Also not the same old stuff, new and exciting . This book looks fantastic and it is definately on my wish list!!
ReplyDeleteI like unique and modern designs, at an intermediate level. Lots of pictures and use of modern fabrics appeals to me too.
ReplyDeleteourbusylittlebunch(at)hotmail(dot)com
i love all the patterns in a quilt book the more patterns the more chance i will buy it thanks for the giveaway
ReplyDeleteTh most important thing....I like books that show the quilt made twice, using two different colour schemes. I also like books with good pictures and clear directions.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeletemy most precious quilting books are those that give more than techniques but the insight of the writer on her art, her connections with the quilt, I am fond of the stories behind, along with a clear technical part that make me want to do even if I don't.
ReplyDeleteKatia
I always look for lots of photos in a book. Love to see pictures f the finished items
ReplyDeleteI want a book to get my attention. To learn something new or have quilts that make me need to get my fabric out and make a quilt. I also want my books to add to my collection not just be impulse buy for the cover or the trendy newest. I want the book to demand to join my other volumes and become a resource to create. Thanks for making this book giveaway part of your blog.
ReplyDeleteJane
Addy. Harleyetta@aol.com
I look for a book that contains several unique patterns that I'll want to use someday; with plenty of pictures and illustrations like Julie's new book. :)
ReplyDeleteI like when instructions are provided for multiple sizes of quilts and for when alternate colour ways are illustrated for added inspiration. I also like when various inspirational options are shown for surface quilting and I like when suggestions for quilt backs are included as well. I only know from seeing these in some of the books I already have, making them all the more valuable to me.
ReplyDeleteI like a book with clear and concise instructions as well as sewing tips and techniques. Always looking for new ways to do sewing things. Also, I like bright colorful pictures and patterns. Thank you for this great giveaway.
ReplyDeleteHave a super great sewing and stitching day!
I look for ones that provide different sizes and good directions since I'm a newbie. This book would be great to start with!
ReplyDeleteI look for pics and clear instructions... I love the photos you shared, looks like a great book!
ReplyDeleteI look for bold photos of the work in the book -- I determine that if you took all that time to make the item you should have a bold picture of the item -- your book fits the criteria -- I'm in love with it - Terry !}
ReplyDeleteI look for simplicity with 4 children quilts have to be simple. This book looks like it has some quilts right up my alley, love the photos.
ReplyDeleteI look for clear photos to show the techniques. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteI like to have great instructions and pictures. Maybe the look of the quilt in different colors.
ReplyDeleteI like clear, detailed instructions, images of how the pieces go together and alternate sizes. Thanks for the chance to win this book.
ReplyDeleteclear images of finished projects so I can see how they look, hate the artistic shots where most of the pattern is obscured
ReplyDeleteAfter a gorgeous quilt on the front color, I look through for good photos and diagrams in fabrics or colors I like...I'm sure I'm passing on a lot of books that have different styles than I like, so that's a shame! Thank you for the giveaway!
ReplyDeleteI must agree...the White Stars quilt is gorgeous, and I would SOO make that quilt! When buying a quilting/sewing/craft book, I prefer beautiful photography coupled with very detailed instructions/templates, etc. Details are so important! Thank you!
ReplyDeleteI like quilt books that have information about the maker's creative process as well and specific projects.
ReplyDeleteI look for gorgeous inspiring photos. I try and look past the fabric, to see if I like the lay out of the quilt, but gorgeous lay out and fabric really help.
ReplyDeleteI look for quilts that I will be able to do in the near future (I'm a beginner quilter). And also a book that had very good directions. Thanks for a chance to win this fabulous book! :)
ReplyDeleteThe most important thing for me is lots of pictures! I'm a visual learner and I like books that really show in details with clear, concise printed instructions.
ReplyDeleteBoth pictures and clear concise instructions are so important. Oh and correct yardages too. I've had the bad experience of making a quilt from a pattern that had the wrong amounts listed.
ReplyDeleteFirst of all...I am a huge fan of Julie's! What i like about a quilting book or patter - clear and understandable instructions!! and then I love pretty photos! Thank you so much. alizavdw@gmail.com
ReplyDeleteI love quilt books. I have so many of them. I love to see the beautiful pictures of quilts. The book should show the complete quilt and have great instructions. The instructions should have nice pictures of the parts that may be confusing. I could NEVER make even 1 quilt out of each book I have, but I love all my quilt books. This one looks great! Thanks for the chance to win!
ReplyDeleteMary Malone
mary and russ at wi dot rr dot com
I scan through one pattern to make sure I can easily follow the way the instructions are written out. I hate getting home and waste time scratching my head with "What the heck did they mean by that?" That's just me in my old age....
ReplyDeleteI look for books that have a few projects in it that I would make. I like instructions that include pictures to clarify what the words are saying.
ReplyDeleteI look for clear instructional photos that show what is described in the text. When one doesn't make sense, then I can look to the other to get a good sense of what is going on.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great looking book! I usually look for clear instructions and a few appealing projects within the book.
ReplyDeleteAnother great looking book, the White Stars caught my eye straight away and like you, I think it would look fab in Christmas fabric - like huge snowflakes on a blanket!
ReplyDeleteOHHH! I would love to make that triangle quilt--BEAUTIFUL! THANKS for the chance to win:) sbmmhoover at yahoo dot com
ReplyDeleteMy main focus in books would be the quilt design. I have to really like most of the designs to buy it.
ReplyDeletelots of colored pictures!
ReplyDeleteLots of pictures en a list of fabric requirements! I would love to make one of those quilts in the book.
ReplyDeletelia.vandenbrand@live.nl
I look for quilting books that give me at least 3 ideas that I would try.
ReplyDeleteI love great photos....
ReplyDeletethanks... nclement@ct.metrocast.net
I look for clear instructions and photographs. Thanks for the chance to win.
ReplyDeleteI like books that have appealing patterns, great photos, and instructions that give me confidence. That's why I'm trying to win this book. ;)
ReplyDeleteI try to only buy books that have more than just one quilt that appeals to me. I love Julie's patterns. I own several. I'd love to have her new book.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the give-away. I like quilting books (and patterns) that actually show quilting diagrams or give you some idea of how that particular quilt was finished. I hate it when all they say is"baste, quilt and bind."
ReplyDeleteI like a variety of patterns in Quilting books. I love Julie's book because each quilt is different. She is very talented and gives variety in her book and her ideas are fresh.
ReplyDeleteI look for great photos, inspirational colours and uilts that look like I would be able to make them. :)
ReplyDeleteThanks for the give-away!
Ase
aseostebo(at)hotmail(dot)com
I look for clear directions and nice photos. Just love to skip through quilt books and find inspirations!
ReplyDeleteI look for great photo descriptions, AND quilts WITHOUT boarders. I usually leave them off even when the pattern has them, part of my "don't fence me in" attitude, I guess! ;)
ReplyDeletejblacker(at)tambapay(dot)rr(dot)com
I want to learn something from a book -- even if I don't make the patterns... so great fabric combos, pretty pics... that's what I like! :)
ReplyDeleteand congratulations again to Julie! :)
What I look for in a quilt book is new techniques and at least 2 or 3 projects that I would like to try
ReplyDeleteFirst, a quilt book has to have patterns and a layout that grab me. Then I consider how many of the projects fit the list of future quilt giftees. Julie's quilts would definitely fit at least three in the queue.
ReplyDeleteInspiration. I want to see a thing I've never thought of doing and have a chance to learn to make it. :)
ReplyDeletePretty and plenty colorful pictures and simple how-tos!
ReplyDeleteI like seeing patterns I might not normally come across.
ReplyDeleteThe book looks like another winner for Jaybird and Company. I love her quilts.
ReplyDeleteGood ideas, patterns and colour inspiration is what I look for - and this book seems to have it all
ReplyDeleteFor me it's unique colourings of quilts. Anything that looks complicated but isn't is always popular with me!
ReplyDeleteWhen I'm looking a craft books I love to look at the pictures. I also like when there are clear instructions paired with different techniques. Thanks for the chance to win. If I won I would definitely make the "White Stars" quilt.
ReplyDeleteGood design and accurate directions.
ReplyDeleteClear instructions, a one page cheat sheet is great when I already know how to create the unit, just need to know how many and what size.
ReplyDeletelove to win thanks
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteAccurate and clear directions. Oh, and good pictures make it a perfect read.
ReplyDeleteI look for originality. I like the no border concept. I went to a class last month and the instructor/designer made the comment the the younger quilters like the no border look. Inside my head I was screaming "Yes!"
ReplyDeleteFirst, let me say that I really love your blog-- SO informative!! :-) When I choose a craft book, I think that the first thing that draws me is the photographs.. and then, I check out the projects-- are they something that I would like to do, are the instructions thorough and easy to follow. And, also, is the book priced reasonably?... Thank you for the chance to win this book-- it *does* have pretty pictures, and it definitely does look like a book that I would use! :-)
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful book. I look for patterns, photographs and
ReplyDeleteclear instructions. Thanks for the chance to win!
wigglypup2(at)yahoo(dot)com
I've gotten to the point where I rarely follow a pattern as well. So, I guess what I look for in a book is, like you said, patterns I would actually make!
ReplyDeleteI'm all about the eye candy i quilting books. I use them the same way I use cookbooks - for inspiration, not to blindly follow the recipes.
ReplyDelete