Pieced Symbols - Blocks from the Global Village

Myrah Brown Green has designed 22 foundation pieced quilt blocks to reflect cultural symbols from Africa, Asia, Australia, North America, South America and Europe. Each block is photographed in full colour with a description of the significance of the design and its relevance in different cultures is also discussed in a section called “Crossing cultures”. Each block measures 6in square and she has made them in a wide variety of different fabrics suggesting that “colours, textures and themes indigenous to the continent can make a difference” rather than having to select obviously African or Asian themed prints, for example. At the end of each section, Myrah has included a selection of quilts integrating the block designs. Overall, this book is a wonderful celebration of global diversity and I think it would be a useful book for quilters who like to draw upon their cultural experiences for inspiration. The blocks range from simple to complex and would be better suited to those with some experience of foundation piecing.