Publisher: Amy Barrett-Daffin
Creative Director: Gailen Runge
Acquisitions Editor: Roxane Cerda
Managing Editor: Liz Aneloski
Editors: Liz Aneloski and Kristyne Czepuryk
Technical Editor: Debbie Rodgers
Cover/Book Designer: April Mostek
Production Coordinator: Zinnia Heinzmann
Production Editor: Alice Mace Nakanishi
Illustrators: Kristyne Czepuryk, Linda Johnson, and Masako Wakayama
Photo Assistants: Gregory Ligman, Kaeley Hammond, and Lauren Herberg
Cover photography by Estefany Gonzalez of C&T Publishing, Inc.
Subject and lifestyle photography by Estefany Gonzalez of C&T Publishing, Inc.; instructional photography by Nobuhiko Honma
Published by Stash Books, an imprint of C&T Publishing, Inc., P.O. Box 1456, Lafayette, CA 94549
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Publishing my first book in English would not have been possible without a fortuitous meeting with Amy Barrett-Daffin of C&T Publishing at a New York City cafe in May of 2018. Much thanks to the C&T team, especially Amy Barrett-Daffin and Roxane Cerda, for giving me this wonderful opportunity.
I would also like to thank Yoko Tamori for introducing me to Amy and providing invaluable language assistance, and thanks to Kristyne Czepuryk for her wonderful editing assistance.
A very special thanks to Brent Hagen and Irene P. Dietlin. Having friends like you who are always there for me is a great joy in my quilting life.
I would like to express my deep gratitude to my wonderful staff at Crib Quilt, especially my daughter, Emi, who is also my business partner and my best friend.
Thank you all very much for all your support!
Introduction
The beauty of the diverse patterns and designs of the American quilting world has been inspiring Japanese quilters for more than half a century. I myself draw much of my inspiration from the American folk aesthetic and blend these traditional elements with embroidery and crochet.
The original American flag was fashioned using quilting methods, and was a powerful way women were able to express themselves in that tumultuous and historic era. Drawn to the American flag for both its design and history, I was impressed by the way American quilters convey deep and powerful thoughts and feelings through their work.
Since opening my quilt shop in 1987, I have visited the United States many times. Through my travels I have realized more fully the impact quilting can have. Embraced by women everywhere for their emotional support and solidarity, Pink Ribbon Quilts helps us try to mend the pain that breast cancer causes in so many lives. These quilts also convey the vital message that through it all we are never alone, that we are indeed surrounded by those who care.
One of my greatest joys has been discovering amazing communities of quilters all over the world. Quilting extends beyond borders, and I am eternally grateful to the supportive communities with whom I share our craft. My travels have not only given me the opportunity to showcase my creations, but have also allowed me to forge relationships with other quilters, experiences that continue to inspire me in myriad ways. I consider America my quilting mentor due in large part to the lifelong connections I have built with quilters in the States.
To my delight, one of my lifelong dreams came true in May of 2018 when I had an international solo show at a gallery in New York City. It was a wonderful experience, and it led to this exciting opportunity to work with C&T Publishing.
Quilts are bridges between countries, between quilters, between you and me. It is with great joy I share the projects in this book. All the projects are intended to enable quilters to enjoy many different techniques, such as appliqu, embroidery, and punch needle. Whether its a pouch you give a loved one, a bag you enjoy carrying about town, or a quilt that brightens your home, I hope these creations bring you as much joy in your quilting as they have brought me.
The Basics
Appliqu
You may use another appliqu technique if you prefer. The patterns included are printed in the finished direction, so you may need to reverse them to match your method.
REQUIREMENTS
Appliqu paper: I use Premium Hand-Appliqu Paper from Masako Wakayama (by C&T Publishing). (Do not use in a photocopy machine or printer.)
Pencil
Sharp, small fabric scissors
Fabric glue stick
Apliquick Rods: This stainless-steel rod set includes a forked-end tool to hold a small piece in place and a beveled-end tool to brush the fabric over the edge of the appliqu paper.
Fine appliqu needles
Appliqu thread: In colors to match appliqu fabric
Note Our original appliqu thread (Crib Quilt fine appliqu thread) comes in four colors: beige, dark beige, blue, and red. We recommend using an appliqu needle, as the appliqu thread is very fine and easily comes out of most sewing needles. Compare our #100 thread with a typical #60 appliqu thread. It is very fine, but quite strong.
Apliquick Rods and Microserrated Scissors
Appliqu needles and thread
Place the appliqu paper with the shiny side up over pattern and trace with a pencil, leaving at least a space on each side of the shape. Fig. A
Cut out each shape on the drawn lines. Fig. B
With the shiny side down, fuse to the wrong side of the fabric using medium heat. Cut out the fabric with a seam allowance. Trim the corners. Figs. C-D
Snip inward curves to the line. Figs. E-F
Apply glue on the wrong side of the seam allowance with a fabric glue pen. Fig. G
Use the Apliquick tools to fold and adhere the seam allowance to the wrong side of the shapes, fold corners, and press edges smooth. Figs. H-L