Quilting

Patterns, patchworks and projects

Book Review – Modern Improv Quilting

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In “Modern Improv Quilting,” author Laura Veenema invites readers to embrace the creative freedom of improvisational piecing and become the master of their own designs. With a blend of inspiration, guidance, and practical instruction, this book empowers quilters of all levels to explore the exciting world of modern improvisation.

Veenema begins by introducing readers to three powerful techniques for improvisational piecing, each offering a unique approach to shape, scale, and color. Whether you’re a novice quilter or an experienced maker, these beginner-friendly techniques provide a solid foundation for unleashing your creativity.

What sets this book apart is its emphasis on practical application. Through step-by-step instructions and clear illustrations, Veenema guides readers through the process of creating ten distinct quilt projects, ranging from classic bed and baby quilts to functional crossbody and duffel bags. Each project is accompanied by helpful tips and suggestions, empowering quilters to experiment with color palettes and design elements to create truly one-of-a-kind pieces.

One of the book’s strengths lies in its versatility. Whether you’re drawn to bold geometric designs or prefer more organic shapes, there’s something for everyone in “Modern Improv Quilting.” Additionally, Veenema’s emphasis on building unique color palettes adds an extra layer of depth to each project, encouraging quilters to explore new combinations and experiment with their personal aesthetic.

“Modern Improv Quilting” is a comprehensive guide that inspires creativity, fosters experimentation, and celebrates the joy of quilting. Whether you’re looking to refresh your quilting practice or embark on a new creative journey, this book is sure to become an indispensable resource for quilters seeking to be the boss of their own designs.  

Have you read?

Woodland Whimsy Fabric Collection by Jennifer Pugh

There is something especially lovely about a winter fabric collection that feels seasonal without immediately shouting Christmas. Woodland Whimsy by Jennifer Pugh for Wilmington Prints is filled with forest animals, mushrooms, classic plaids, dots and softly textured coordinating prints.

The colours have a warm, storybook quality, making the collection perfect for quilts that can stay out long after the Christmas decorations have been packed away.

What Is Included in the Woodland Whimsy Bundle?

The Woodland Whimsy Fat Quarter Bundle includes:

  • 15 coordinating fat quarters
  • One 23-inch scenic fabric panel
  • 100% quilting cotton
  • Fabrics designed by Jennifer Pugh
  • Prints manufactured by Wilmington Prints

Each fat quarter measures approximately 18 x 21 inches.

I particularly like that the scenic panel is included with the bundle. Fabric panels are wonderful when you want an impressive focal point without spending several evenings piecing tiny blocks while wondering why you chose such a complicated pattern in the first place.

The panel could become the centre of a lap quilt, wall hanging or child’s quilt, with the coordinating fat quarters used to create simple patchwork borders.

What Could You Make With Woodland Whimsy Fabric?

This collection would work beautifully for:

  • A woodland animal lap quilt
  • A cosy winter wall hanging
  • A child’s storybook quilt
  • Patchwork cushions
  • Quilted reading mats
  • Fabric storage baskets
  • Winter table runners
  • Handmade gifts for nature lovers

You could also separate the smaller prints and use them in scrap-friendly projects. Our collection of eight fat-quarter-friendly quilt patterns offers plenty of ideas for putting coordinated fabric bundles to work.

For something smaller, the gentle woodland prints would be lovely in a seasonal mini quilt. This free mini snowflake quilt pattern could easily be adapted using the collection’s winter colours.

Is the Woodland Whimsy Bundle Worth Buying?

The bundle gives you a ready-made colour palette, a useful assortment of coordinating prints and a feature panel in one package. That takes much of the guesswork out of planning a quilt, particularly if choosing coordinating fabrics is the part that usually sends you wandering around the fabric shop for an hour.

The prints are playful enough for children but not so juvenile that they cannot be used for adult quilts and winter home décor. That versatility is probably the collection’s strongest feature.

The bundle was listed at US$62.98 when checked and is expected to ship in October 2026. Prices, availability and shipping dates may change, particularly with a new fabric release.

If you love woodland animals, gentle winter colours and fabric that feels as though it belongs in an illustrated storybook, this is a charming collection to add to your sewing list.

See the Woodland Whimsy Fat Quarter Bundle at Fat Quarter Shop.