Written with clear instructions so that a beginner can be successful (even showing which way to press the seams), this books spends the first 10 pages teaching the basics of quilting. Six chapters follow, containing 30 quilt patterns total. The chapters are divided by the shapes or techniques used to make those particular quilts. The book wraps up with a section on finishing quilts. The authors have included some interesting stories about the development of each quilt that give you more a feel of taking a class from the authors rather than just reading their book.
You won't find extremely complex patterns here and for some that may be a drawback, but the designs are pleasing and at times look deceptively intricate. Cheerful primary colors dominate these quilts, though now and then you find a purple or brown quilt, and a few of them include just a touch of simple applique. Even though I usually choose to make my quilts from more of an earth-tone palette, I feel that these quilts are well-balanced in color and design and the authors have done a good job of making them pleasing to the eye. At least their presentation draws me in, whether I would duplicate their color choices or not.
If you want to work with curved seams, set-in seams, intricate piecing or heirloom-style applique you can look elsewhere. But here you will find classic quilt styles, presented with concise instructions, in pleasing colors and layouts for the beginning to intermediate quilter, or for the expert quilter who wants to take a break from some of the more challenging projects. I have recently cleaned out several books from my quilting library that have sat for years without being used. This book is staying put.