Inspiring Improv: Explore Creative Piecing with Curves, Strips, Slabs and More

Done a fair bit of patchwork over the years but haven’t done any for ages……became a bit bored with it! But for some unknown reason bought this book and I’m starting to rethink patchwork……it certainly has made me want to do it much more creatively.

Loved the book. Saw the author at a talk - very inspiring.

I purchased this book hoping it would help me break out of the constraints of other people’s designs and help me develop my own. I’ve admired the creativity and freedom of improv but have not felt I was able to try this; 30 years as a traditional quilter is hard to break!From the outset, the author’s style is relaxed and inspiring. I really enjoyed this; he is chatty and encouraging, as if you were sitting having a cuppa with him, rather than instructional, which is what you would hope for if you’re truly being improvisational :-)The author gives a good grounding in several methods including triangles, slabs and curves with lots of photographs to help you grasp these basic techniques. He also provides an insight into how he chooses to quilt his top. Then you’re off on your own journey!I’ve started my own quilt top and although very different to anything I have previously attempted I am definitely enjoying the process. You can teach an old dog new tricks!

I've had a casual interest in improvisational work for a while as I often feel a little constrained when trying to follow strict guidance. I feel this book really captures the spirit of what it is to treat quilting like a big jigsaw puzzle of your own making. The author's examples are quite striking and I doubt I'll be able to come up with something quite as unique as what's on display here. In some instances I would find this daunting, however the book is written from such a humble perspective that I can't help but feel inspired. The author muses about the challenges of being creative and how to handle your feelings when your work doesn't come out quite right (which is invaluable advice to someone like me). Overall this is a breath of fresh air for anyone with a keen eye for design or even to a novice who wants to dip their toe in the unpredictably wonderful world of improvisational quilting.

Bought this after attending an online course with Nicholas. It's like being in class with Nicholas all over again.The book is very clearly laid out and accessible. You don't need anything else to get started on your own improvised quilt. There are no quilting police and you can throw caution to the wind and stitch with abandon.Brimming with loads of inspiration and tips, you're sure to be churning out fabulous quilts in no time.This could be my best book buy this year.

Am loving the freedom this book encourages. Improvised quilting might not be everyone’s cup of tea but it’s definitely to my taste. Great illustrations and descriptions plus there’s plenty more inspiration on #quiltsfromtheattic to support what is in the book. I’m sure the author would respond to any questions you may have on the subject. My attached picture is still a work in progress but one inspired by the book and a four week sew along on social media. I’ve also practiced cutting and sewing some curves and can’t wait to explore further when time allows.

Firstly, I believe it is fitting to say I have never written a review on any purchase before. I believe this is a testament to how much this book has fed my creative nature. The author has a very personable writing style that makes it feel as if he is talking to you directly, which also makes the book warm and relatable. The standard of his creations are extremely high and are visually beautiful. I feel this ultimately enhances what he wants to give his readers, inspiration. I would consider myself inexperienced, but using this book as a guide I feel I can improve my personal projects and grow as a designer. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves to express themselves creatively, and it would be an asset regardless of experience.

Traditional quilting doesn’t appeal to me. Once I’ve done a block perfect - then that’s me done.So seeing Nicholas’ work on his Instagram @quiltsfromtheattic - this triggered something with me and I just NEEDED to have his book when it was released!The way it is written is beautiful and very natural. He’s very clear in how he writes the book and it’s great to see illustrative step by step diagrams rather than photographs. It gives a better design feel to the book also.His choice of colours and fabrics are just insane, I really don't understand how he pulls these colours together to create something so beautiful.He’s really inspired me to get started on an improv quilt! Well Done Nicholas!