The Ultimate Quilt Finishing Guide – Book Review

There are many things to consider when finishing a quilt. In fact, many quilters don’t end up finishing a piece for numerous reasons. They may not be able to decide on a border, or maybe they are not sure what kind of batting to use. Some people get stumped on the backing, and binding can be tricky, even for the most experienced quilters. That is where this book The Ultimate Quilt Finishing Guide, by Harriet Hargrave and Carrie Hargrave-Jones, comes in handy.

With 127 pages filled with photos and illustrations, this book covers it all. The largest section by far is on borders. Even after quilting more than thirty years, I don’t think I’ve ever seen as many different borders as there are in this book. There are over 100 of them! Many of the borders highlighted are accompanied by detailed instructions on how to make them. No one will ever be stumped on border choices again.

After borders, the book goes into helpful details about all of the types of batting available, and which types work well with certain projects. There is even a batting test sheet to help quilters with future batting choices.

Rounding up the book are the sections on quilt backing and binding. The reader will find tips on how to determine yardage for the backing, a calculation that can sometimes be tricky.

The binding section covers various methods and has helpful and detailed explanations on how to do them. There is even a section on finishing off quilt corners and edges that are not the square shape typically seen.

The reader will be able to do all sorts of techniques after reading this extremely detailed and well-written book. The section on borders alone, could be a book all on its own.

Written by quilting superstar Harriet Hargrave and her daughter Carrie Hargrave-Jones, who is carrying on the quilting tradition of her mother, The Ultimate Quilt Finishing Guide will have you finishing all of those UFOs (unfinished objects) in no time.

Published by C & T publishing, the book is in stores in 2021 and can be purchased on Amazon here: The Ultimate Quilt Finishing Guide

Next Quilting Pattern:

Quilting meets the timeless artistry of Navajo and tribal designs in this roundup of breathtaking patterns inspired by the rich traditions of the Southwest. These quilt patterns channel the bold geometry, vibrant colors, and storytelling heritage of Navajo art, offering a blend of cultural beauty and creative expression.

Whether you’re drawn to the iconic Lone Star designs, the intricate layers of the Sunset Star, or the symbolic details of the Navajo Seasons quilt, there’s something here to capture your imagination. From beginner-friendly blocks to advanced patterns that challenge your quilting skills, these projects invite you to explore the harmony of shapes, hues, and traditions.

The patterns in this collection are more than just quilts—they’re a way to connect with the past while crafting something uniquely your own. Use earthy tones, striking contrasts, or even your stash fabrics to create quilts that echo the landscapes of deserts, mountains, and wide-open skies. You’ll also find tutorials and free resources to guide you as you stitch these timeless designs.

So, if you’re ready to add a touch of tribal beauty to your quilting repertoire, these patterns will inspire you to create something extraordinary. Which one will you start with? Let us know in the comments, and let’s celebrate the artistry of Navajo and tribal quilting together.

Quilting was introduced to the Navajo people through trade, boarding schools, and missionary efforts, where European settlers and American missionaries taught sewing and quilting techniques. Over time, Navajo quilters began incorporating their artistic sensibilities into quilting, blending traditional patterns with this new medium.

Navajo artisans were famous for their intricate woven rugs and blankets. Using upright looms and hand-spun wool, they created bold geometric designs, often inspired by nature and spiritual beliefs. These weavings carried deep symbolism, with colors and patterns reflecting sacred meanings, family stories, or connections to the land.

Lone Star Quilt Free Pattern – Jordan Fabrics

Navajo Seasons Quilt Pattern – Jinny Beyer Studio

Navajo Quilt Block

Homestead Star Quilt

NAVAJO ROAD Quilt Pattern – Chris Hoover – Whirligig Designs

Navajo – Traditional Quilt Block Tutorial LIVE – Video # 46

Tribal Musings

6 Stunning Southwest Inspired Quilt Patterns

Quilt Pattern – Tapis Quilt by AGF Studio