Book Review - Nature's Beauty in Appliqué

Hi everyone:


As promised in my last post, I'm reviewing another book where the projects focus on flowers. This time it's Nature's Beauty in Appliqué: Pretty and Practical Projects by Susan Taylor Propst. This is Susan's third book published by Martingale (I'll be looking at her other two books in a future post) and her projects continue to be stunning. 

There are nine small projects in this book which are all inspired by a wall hanging that Susan made entitled "Swan and Nessie". While this particular pattern is not included in the book (it's gorgeous!), Susan does include the project layout so you can create your own version using the flower patterns provided in the book.

Daffodil Tote Bag from Nature's Beauty in Appliqué 
Photo courtesy of Martingale and Company

As indicated by the title, the projects in this book range from table runners to tote bags to pillows, all practical and great for gifts. They are appropriate for quilters who have had some experience - probably a little advanced for the new beginner quilter. The patterns all include appliqué (obviously!) and Susan provides detailed instructions for hand appliqué, using freezer paper, as well as information on turned-edge and fusible web appliqué. 

Campanula Neck Roll from Nature's Beauty in Appliqué 
Photo courtesy of Martingale and Company

There is also quite a bit of information on choosing fabrics so your projects will be successful. If you can't quite find the right fabric, Susan also provides tips on painting fabric to get it just the right shade. I appreciated the information on quilting that she included in the book, including suggestions for quilting the background and the appliqué.

Dahlia Tote Bag from Nature's Beauty in Appliqué 
Photo courtesy of Martingale and Company

Susan's instructions are quite detailed and she also provides you with alternate colour ways or suggestions for each project, such as using a pre-printed panel, rather than the appliqué for the tote bags. Nice to know that you can make these projects without the appliqué and they are still just as beautiful and practical.

Swan Wall Hanging from Nature's Beauty in Appliqué 
Photo courtesy of Martingale and Company

I mentioned earlier that the pattern for "Swan and Nessie" was not included in the book, however Susan does have a wall hanging pattern featuring a swan in the book. Although it is simpler, "Swan Wall Hanging" is just as lovely and elegant - and would be quicker to complete.
If you're looking for a project to make as gift for a friend or for yourself, there are many wonderful patterns to choose from in this book. 
I'll be taking a look at another one of Susan's books in my next post.