Basic Quilting

In this guide to basic quilting, presenter Jo Merecki covers color and fabric selection, use of templates and stencils, marking, rotary-cutting, hand piecing, borders and binding, basting and hand quilting, while putting together a wall hanging. Although the program is fairly well-done, there are some notable drawbacks. Merecki makes some questionable comments, such as "beginners aren't experienced enough" to choose fabrics for their first project (which may be true for some, but depends entirely on the individual). She also assumes a certain amount of sewing knowledge by using key terms ("seam allowances") without defining them, which will doubtlessly flummox an absolute beginner. And while hand piecing and hand quilting will encourage those without access to sewing machines, some little pieces shown on the video are partially obscured from the camera by the teacher's hands (extreme close-ups were desperately needed). Finally, it doesn't help that the colors Merecki chose are in three shades of teal similar to the green cutting mat that fills the frame most of the time; the effect is frequently too monochromatic. An optional purchase. Other titles in the 11-volume series include: Ruffled Pillow, Amish Squares, Quillo, Christmas Projects, and Applique. Aud: P. (R. Reagan)