Zen-sational Stitches for Quilting

Zen-sational Stitches for Quilting
Gifted by: Fox Chapel Publishing
www.foxchapelpublishing.com
Reviewed by Dana Byerwalter, editor of AllFreeChristmasCrafts.com

Have you ever heard of "tangling" before? Zentangle is a process that was created by Rick Roberts and Maria Thomas, and it is a unique art form that anyone can sit down and create. It was designed for people of all ages and all artistic skill levels as a means of relaxing through sketching these repetitive patterns---hence, the name Zentangle.

Several books have already been released on Zentangle from Design Originals, an imprint of Fox Chapel Publishing. These books all offer excellent techniques and tips on the art of "tangling," or Zentangle. Zentangle is explained so clearly as to make the art seem effortless, and in a way, that is the purpose. The process is designed to be relaxing and rewarding, regardless of artistic skill level.

Suzanne McNeill, author of Zen-sational Stitches for Quilting, takes the concept of Zentangle in another direction as she focuses on the art of quilting. The book first shows all of the beautiful finished patterns, and next details each of the stitches. In the introduction to the book, McNeill discusses the charm of working with Zentangle in her quilting. Similar to Zentangling on paper, these stitches for quilting offer "freedom, relaxation and the joy that come with continuous-line tangles." McNeill has collected Zentangle patterns for a variety of uses, such as tote bags, pillows, tea towels, and more. She even includes tips for beginning quilters in the heart of the book. These patterns make for gorgeous, unique quilt crafts. Let them inspire your holiday crafting and give the finished quilts as gifts this Christmas. You are sure to find an abundance of inspiration in this wonderful book.