Aside from Number 1 (which really is my sentimental favourite) the list of books below is in no particular order. The one thing you will probably notice about my choice of books is that they are predominantly about inspiration and technique rather than based on specific projects. After sewing/quilting for this many years I rarely use a traditional or commercial book/pattern unless it's used for teaching a class. (There is the possibility that some of these titles are discontinued, but you still may be able to find used or digital copies.)

*** Even though I have included links for those of you who do not have easy access to stores, I highly recommend supporting your local brick & mortar quilt/sewing store by shopping there. If they don’t have these books in stock they may be able to order them in for you if they are still available from their suppliers.

Design Essentials: The Quilter's Guide by Lorraine Torrence (1998)
When I first saw this book waaaay back in 1998 it changed my direction in quilting. Up to that point, because I was a relatively new quilter, most of the quilts I worked on (and taught) were based on traditional quilt blocks. Lorraine opened my eyes to different ways of looking at quilt design and freeing my mindset. Collage Curves is my favourite set of design instructions from the book.
Portraits for Fabric Lovers- Mastering the Technique of Realism by Marilyn Belford (2006)
I was blown away by Marilyn's realism with her fabric portraits using fabric and thread sketching. With her book's guidance I was able to incorporate some of her techniques into my own portrait quilts.
Quilter's Playtime by Dianne S. Hire (2004)
This book is soooo much fun! Dianne has designed many different techniques with childhood games in mind. Hopscotch, Tiddley Winks, and Ring Around the Rosey are just a sampling of games that take on a whole new meaning for quilters.

4. Adventures in Design by Joen Wolfrom (2011)

This incredible visual guide does actually guide you through different design elements and explains why they're important. Texture, scale, colour and value are just a few of the design elements that are highlighted in this visually stunning book. I'm also a huge fan of Joen's Ultimate 3-in-1 Color Tool, and her books on colour theory are wonderful. You can't go wrong with any of them.

5. Out of the Box by Mary Lou Weidman (2009)

The only thing I can say about this book is “hold onto your hat”! It's an explosion of colour, wacky design and no holds barred craziness that you will love. Mary Lou gives you permission to go wild with your ideas, themes, and colouration as she guides you through the thought process while designing your own personal story quilt.

6. Quilter's Complete Guide by Marianne Fons and Liz Porter (1993)

For you newbies, check this book out. Yes, I purchased mine way back in 1993, but I know it's been updated since (this is a photo of my copy…the cover is now different) and probably has updated techniques as well. It's a wonderful reference book for when you're just learning or when you're revisiting a technique you haven't done in a while. It covers all the steps for the quilting process as well as offers up some projects. I made my first Lone Star by following the directions in this book.

7. Free Motion Meandering: a Beginner's Guide to Machine Quilting by Angela Walters (2017)

Even though Angela's a pro on the long arm machine, her free-motion tips and designs will help you tremendously even with your domestic machine. Photos and drawings are incredibly easy to follow and inspiring.

8. The Quilting Arts Book by Patricia Bolton (2008)

In my opinion, Quilting Arts Magazine was a shot in the arm for the quilt magazine world when it first came on the scene in 2001. Up until then most publications were based on traditional quilt patterns. Quilting Arts was geared towards fibre art enthusiasts who wanted to experiment. This book is a culmination of techniques and ideas from the magazine.

9. Creative Embellishments by Sherrill Kahn (2007)

Along the same lines as the book above, Sherrill's book covers different embellishment techniques and surface design. I was drawn in first by the incredible colours and then was inspired by the content.

10. Quilting Art by Spike Gillespie (2009)

If you're looking for a visually stunning “coffee table” book...this is it. Spike highlights the work of 20 contemporary quilt artists with a short bio of each. Look to it for some inspiration for your own quilts.

Bonus!!! Honourable Mentions!

1. For those of you looking for a project based book any one of the following 3 will fit the bill. Originally published by House of White Birches (now a division of Annie's Publishing), these 3 books offer up so many wonderful projects you won't know which ones to start first.

- Lot's of Scraps It's Time to Quilt (2008)

- 5-10-15+ Fat Quarters (2010)

- Jumpstart Your Quilting (2011)

2. The New Quick & Easy Block Tool by C&T Publishing (2016)

If you've been wanting to try your hand at traditional quilt blocks this is the book for you. It features 110 different blocks in 5 different sizes along with tips, tricks, cutting charts and much more. A great reference tool.

3. The Quiltmaker's Gift by Jeff Brumbeau (2000)

This one is a beautiful storybook to share with your kids or grandkids about the simple joy of giving. Colourful, detailed and gorgeous illustrations by Gail de Marcken bring it to life. It will soon become a family favourite.

My Top 10 Favourite Books