Popular Patchwork August 2009

The August cover project is a beautiful Dresden Plate quilt, "China Blue" by Hilary Gooding. This is an advanced project, resulting in a stunning bed quilt. We've got a gorgeous wall hanging "Ship Shape" by Katharine Guerrier, a quick and easy project with lots of nautical style. There's also a batik medallion style wall hanging from Chris Hammacott, a funky playmat by Mandy Munroe and a wonderful set of five different projects showcasing Fabric Freedom's William Morris range, designed by Sally Ablett.

There's lots for anyone interested in new techniques too, our Journal Quilt this month is by Judy Fairless, and features discharging colour from fabric with bleach. This is a great technique which doesn't need any complicated or expensive equipment, I can't wait to try it. There are other innovations in this issue, Esther Anderson introduces us to an amazing new shrinking fabric, just quilt and steam to create this beautiful effect. Liz Sewell has produced a reference guide to interfacings, fusibles and other useful materials, which will help you identify your Pellon from your Vilene, and help when matching project requirements to what you've already got in your stash!

We've printed a pre-show update for Festival of Quilts, to help you plan your time at this summer's favourite and biggest show. Don't forget to come and visit Popular Patchwork on our stand at F19. There will be a demonstration of twin needling by Pat Stone at 2pm on Saturday 22nd August, why not come along, pick up a free handout and admire Pat's lovely samples. Also in this issue, Gillian tells us about the last Studio Art Quilt Associates Exhibition, Transformations - Icons and Imagery. SAQA will be exhibiting again at Festival of Quilts, I can't wait to see some more of this outstanding work.

Evelyn Ramsay is the star of our Conversation Piece in August. Evelyn has been an artist and quilter for over 30 years, and it's fascinating to read about her inspiration and achievements. Out and About features Lime TArts in Perthshire and Anne reviews the Chilford Spring Quilt Festival. We've also got a report from down under, Joan Drake takes us on a quilting whirlwind tour of Adelaide.

You'll never miss an issue as a subscriber, and you can save money off the cover price of each issue. This month's offer is a 26% saving on a one year subscription and a free copy of Lynne Edwards "Stash-buster Quilts" for Direct Debit subscribers.