Thanks for the well wishes friends!  We are on the mend, and starting to feel hungry again – always a good sign.  Since I haven’t made it to my sewing machine yet, I thought I would share a book with you!  Given the opportunity to select books for review, I was drawn to the intricate designs of The Rose of Sharon Block Book by Sharon Pederson.  Most of you know that I love simple pieced blocks, but I had to know more about these blocks!  Aren’t they beautiful?

The first few pages introduce the book and show you exactly how to use the book!  Also, Sharon’s business partner is Ami Simms, founder of Alzheimer’s Art Quilt Initiative.  Ami shares the story of her mother and how she turned the difficult times into a beautiful project to honor and remember those who had forgotten themselves.  Rene’ has made it her personal goal to create at least one quilt each month if you would like to join her, you can find details here.

The Rose of Sharon Block Book is the product of an online competition, EQ6 users were given 3 shapes in multiple sizes to design blocks with, the variety of blocks made is incredible to me.  In the book all the patterns needed, are ready to be traced in the desired size per the block directions.  Also if you happen to have a Go! Cutter there is a die to cut perfect pieces too!

One thing that I love about this book is Sharon’s encouragement.  She knows how she likes to appliqué, and shares all those details with you, BUT if you have a way that works for you – do it that way!  No right or wrong way, just your way.  I do love all the detail she shares about her method, needles, thread, stitch length and width – did I mention that her favorite way is machine appliqué?  It is!

Produced with the book are these stunning note cards!  I haven’t been able to part with any of mine yet, but I’m looking for the perfect opportunity.  Proceeds from both the book and note cards goes to Alzheimer’s Art Quilt Initiative.  I love this book and can’t wait to gather the fabric supplies and courage to get a block or two made!

Happy Quilting –

Amy