Gorgeous book. I loved he way Joyce formatted this book. It's one I recommend to my friends who quilt.

This quilt book took an interesting approach to embellishing “plain” panels by using a painting with thread approach. Instructions were clear. Beautiful projects included. I read a copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Creating Art Quilts with Panels
by Joyce Hughes

A genius and truly and inspirational book with numerous practical techniques and ideas for a beginner, to try; includes 6 projects, with step by step instruction to follow. The detail in the book is fantastic: art panel quilts of all types, from pillows to wall hangings. Until now, I have never seriously thought about buying a quilting panel; even though I have seen some nice ones. Between the inspiration; photo gallery and instructions, there are many things I feel confident in trying in my own project with success. Now, I can't wait to go shopping and get my hands on some panels!

Creating Art Quilts with Panels by Joyce Hughes shows, how marvelous preprinted panels can be as the base for artful quilts. Teaches how to select a good panel, the supplies needed (threads, fusible, batting, rulers and marking tools); including, which type of sewing machine, needles and feet, are best to use. Shows how to prepare the panel including rearranging elements with fusible applique. Including the techniques for free-motion quilting, with detailed photos with complete instructions and hints. Enhancing quilts, by: embellishing with crystals, sequins, lace and more; thread painting, over-laying, 3-D effects, bobbin work, replacing backgrounds and/or rearranging elements for creating new images, adding details and texture. Even shows how to add a border, block and bind off the quilt; including, how to add a sleeve to make stunning finished quilts.

Thank you to Joyce Hughes, Fox Chapel Publishing, Lindauer Publishing LLC and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book. I received a free copy of Creating Art Quilts with Panels, in exchange for a fair and unbiased review, and I feel Ms. Hughes’s book; Creating Art Quilts with Panels deserves to get a 4.5-star rating.

This book offers the opportunity to learn another form of quilting using whole premade panels. The author demonstrates various techniques such as free-motion quilting, thread painting, trapunto and overlay to highlight various parts of the panels and create beautiful art quilts. The reader is shown how to choose a good panel and then decide which technique or combination of techniques will effectively enhance the panel chosen. There are also projects included which apply the various techniques to provide the reader with ideas they can use with their own panels.

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that was provided by the publisher through Net Galley. However, the thoughts and opinions presented here are my own.

Creating Art Quilts with Panels is a new technique/tutorial book by Joyce Hughes covering a number of creative techniques for utilizing pre-printed panels to create hangings and quilts. The author states that she began to introduce the use of pre-printed panels in her workshops because it allowed her students to concentrate on the techniques she was teaching instead of spending valuable classroom time on designing.

Released 8th Jan 2019 by Fox Chapel, it's 128 pages and available in paperback format.

The cover artwork gives a good capsule cross section of the techniques covered in the book. There are some really innovative (and versatile - not just for quilting) techniques included.

The book begins with a teacher's statement about how and why she adopted the use of preprinted panels. This is followed by a good introductory chapter which covers materials and supplies. The first 2 chapters make up about 20% of the page content. The 'meat' of the book is contained in the technique chapter which includes surface treatments, freehand work, thread painting and finishing and takes up about 30% of the material. These are followed by a tutorial series of 6 specific projects utilizing the techniques described earlier. While they do use specific fabrics and panels, all are easily adaptable to other materials. The book ends with a photo gallery of work for further inspiration.

There is a (very) basic list of online resources included at the end, but no index. It's a short book, so that shouldn't prove problematic.

There were several project techniques included in the book which immediately grabbed me and sent me scurrying into my sewing room to be tried out. That's sort of my acid test for crafting books. If they get my fingers twitching to stop reading and start trying, then they're ok by me! This one did. She includes a stumpwork/fringework technique in the book which I -definitely- will incorporate into my machine stumpwork.

Beautifully photographed and well written instructions.

Five stars.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

In "Creating Art Quilts with Panels", reader can learn how to transform regular mass-printed cloth panels, used for pillow cases and quilts into original works of art!

Generally craft books aren't exactly what one would consider an enthralling read. Most of the text tends to be rather 'technical' in nature - writing meant to educate readers and pass on information and new techniques, rather than to entertain. So it's a bit different from reviewing a novel or storybook.
That said, Joyce Hughes does a wonderful job of passing on her unique style of artwork to crafters and artists alike with this text, an introduction to her cloth panel artwork. Readers learn to use a variety of techniques in coordination with quilting methods to complete various projects, from quilted wall-art panels to useful items such as bags. Techniques shown include some of the more common quilting methods, as well as 'thread painting' (by use of a sewing machine and it's various stitches), and the layering of different fabrics, and trims to create various visual effects upon the panel. These techniques lay the groundwork for a variety of projects that readers can explore, from panels such as those shown in the book, to adapting them to wholly original works, such as those by Martha Cole.

The instructions (and I did my best to read all of those in the main section of the book, though I did allow myself to skim the instructions in the individual project section) seem to be clear and easy-to-follow. They were quite readable, and I didn't note any errors that would make things confusing to readers attempting a project. The techniques themselves were quite interesting - my favourite was using layers of sheer 'gauzy' fabric to create snow effects, which I thought was quite pretty!

The only down-side I can see to the book was in the project section. The projects shown were interesting - I especially like the 'Serene Heron' project, as I thought the effects were quite pretty. And it is useful to see various ways the panels can be completed. However, each of the projects shown was of a particular panel that the artist created & completed, most of which I'd assume are of limited supply. Readers picking the book up new may be able to find those panels and follow the instructions to create similar works, but future readers won't have that 'edge'.
In my opinion, it may have been more helpful to have a glossary of techniques - a few pages on various types of leaves you can create, how they look with various stitches, tips for achieving the effects. Different stitch effects to create fur or feathers. Maybe various examples of quilting background-patterns - something like this could help extend the books interest-level to new quilters, as well, as the techniques here seem to be for more experienced crafters and could be a bit intimidating to new users.

This title was provided for review by the publisher through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.

Lovely book, but very specialized technique. Unfortunately not likely to be much borrowed in our library.

This book starts with a super idea. Instead of piecing or appliquing your quilts, why not start with a panel that is already printed? You can change up the panel by adding applique or cropping it so you like it, but the quilt top won't take much time to get ready. It is a great idea for people who need a quilt in a hurry or really like the quilting part.



The next step is to sandwich and add a base layer of quilting to secure the layers and keep everything flat.



Then the fun begins. You can add thread painting using different colors of thread to add dimension and shadows and highlights. Followup with a variety of other techniques such as trapunto, use of an overlay, three-D effects, bobbin work, couching, and embellishments.



The second part of the book takes you through a variety of projects where she shows you how she embellished it, so you can get a feel for how decisions are made about how to use each technique.



I had thought of this idea before but wasn't quite sure how to accomplish it, and I think this book really helped push me forward in that. The book is not for beginners, as you do have to have some basic knowledge about how to do free motion quilting, thread painting, etc., although just confidence may be able to take you through it. There is a lot of repetition and some of the concepts get explained very quickly so the pacing of the book was difficult for me, but overall, I learned a lot. I am giving this book four stars.

I was so excited to review Creating Art Quilts with Panels by Joyce Hughes. There has been such an increase in really great printed panels that I'm falling in love with, but I want to make them into something special. This book really helped to inspire me and think outside the box to make panels into pieces I can use in my home. In this book you learn first hand from a fiber artist and an award-winning quilter how to use techniques that can embellish your project in ways that you can be proud.

She starts off the book by explaining that she was using panels as a way to answer a variety of responses from students about what concerned them about quilting. She would hear statements like "I am not creative", "I do not know how to design", and "I am not sure what colors to use". Panels would help in all of these areas by giving a big central visual that has the main design constructed and can give confidence while you are learning different techniques. In addition, I will say that this book is also a wonderful resource if you are an experienced quilter. I love the look of panels, but tended to shy away from them because I didn't want to "cheat" on a quilting project. After going through this book, I am more excited then ever about making a beautiful panels a unique work of art through the choices I make on the project.

Starting out with supplies, you learn about great ways to use thread, different machine feet, batting and even adhesives. Looking at some of these options will get you brainstorming new ways to use supplies you already have at home. Chapter 3 was one of my favorites because it teaches Techniques that you can use; free-motion quilting, thread painting, trapunto, overlay, bobbin work, fringe work, and of course embellishments.

In Chapter 4 she takes you through actual projects step by step. Showing you her choices on supplies, the techniques she used, how she was able to highlight sections, and may more details. Full of so many great photos of the entire projects as well as close-ups to show great detail. This book will inspire you to pull out projects that you've started before and now want to continue, or even make a trip to the fabric store to see what new examples can get you into your next winter project.

Whether you are new to quilting, or a master quilter this book is just the thing to add to your library. As new panels become available, you'll be using this resource again and again to brainstorm new ideas.

Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.

This book does some clever things with thread painting and embellishing pre-printed fabric panels.
As a quilter, for several decades, it was interesting to see Joyce Hughes’ ideas for adding interest to her quilted projects. The photography was clear and detailed. The information regarding needle sizes and bobbins was very helpful. This small, idea filled book would be a great choice for every quilter’s library.

I enjoyed reading about the process used to enhance pre-printed panels to turn them into a work of art. All of the instructions were nicely illustrated and easy to follow. The same techniques can be applied to embellishing art quilts that are made totally from scratch.

While this book wasn't what I expected, it did have some useful tips and techniques for thread painting. I didn't realize there was a subtitle, so I assumed this book was more on creating with the quilt panels, instead it was more on thread painting and FMQ - I am too much of a novice to feel ready to attempt these techniques but one day this book may come in handy for that.

*received e-book from Netgalley

I'm hoping this book will come out as a paperback or hardcover - if it does, I'll buy it for myself. This is exactly what I'm looking for to deal with a couple panels I've purchased. HOWEVER, not matter what device I used to look at the Kindle version, nothing lined up, and the struggle to figure out what descriptor went with what photo was just too much to deal with. I'm rating the book a 4, with reservations.

How often have you look or brought beautiful fabric panels, to take it home and wonder what to do with it. Maybe made it up into little quilt, only to find it a little flat and slightly disappointing.
Well this book shows how to add interest and dimension to your work. The book has six project to teach a combination of effects or building on previous learnt effects.
The effects combine thread painting, trapunto (padding), embellishment, overlays bobbin work and 3D effects.
There a lots of fabulous photos and very well explained instructions, all of which can be incorporated into your new panel (or quilt) and not only the authors chosen ones - the skills can be, and are transferable.
I really enjoyed reading this book, just a little different to many other quilt books on the market

Joyce Hughes presents a unique approach to sewing panels in Creating Art Quilts With Panels. She brings the reader through the process of panel selection, thread painting, and embellishments, The explanations and instructions are clear, as are the visual descriptions. There are general instructions and then specific instructions for different panel projects. After reading this book one should be ab,e to jump right in and begin creating art quilt from panels.

Thank you, NetGalley for a free eARC in exchange for an honest review. As a quilter, I am constantly looking for new ideas. Lately, I have been intrigued by landscape quilts, but am still overwhelmed at the thought of starting one. However, this book explains how to use panels to create an art quilt. I love it! The directions are clear and concise. The book details many techniques and gives the reader a host of ideas. This is one book that I will definitely be purchasing for my collection.

The book was very informative and showed various creative ways to quilt and embellish quilts. However, it is for machine quilting. I did find the illustrations beautiful and the details with which the author describes each technique is easily adaptable to hand quilting. All in all, the book is very detailed, informative and shows creative ways to embellish projects. It is very understandable and adaptable. I would recommend it to people who have some experience with sewing machines. The author explains the quilting and embellishments for any level.
The illustrations are gorgeous.
I received this book from netgalley and the publisher. for my honest opinion. I enjoyed this book and got some great and new ideas for quilting and illustrating projects.

The first thing you will want to know when considering this book is that it's not really about traditional quilting. It's really all about the thread, in a technique called "thread painting" where the artist embellishes and customizes an existing fabric panel with different threads. I had no idea people even did this, so it was interesting to check out this book.

The first section of the book gives advice on selecting a panel and then the materials needed. I found the advice helpful, but it would have been even better to begin with a short section on the technique, the basics of how it's done, and then go on to discussing the choice of a panel. Clearly this is written for someone who already knows how to do free motion quilting, and is interested in beginning a thread-painting project. Even as a beginning quilter who's not done free motion quilting yet, I can see that the advice is really well thought out and can be very helpful for someone who's learning this technique.

The second major part of the book contains six projects, with detailed instructions for each. They range from the simplest to the more complex mixture of techniques described in the first part of the book. I'm enthralled by the different techniques used and the final results. I'd recommend this book if you are experienced in free-motion quilting. You can create some beautiful works of art!

The ladies in my weekly quilt group love to work with preprinted panels. I have never thought seriously about buying a panel, even though I have seen some nice ones.

Until now. Now I can't wait to get my hands on some panels!

Creating Art Quilts with Panels by Joyce Hughes showed me how marvelous preprinted panels can be as the basis for art quilts. She embellishes the fabric with thread painting, sometimes replacing backgrounds or rearranging the elements to create a new image.

A friend recently took a class in thread painting in which they used a photo printed on fabric. Why not use a printed panel?

Joyce Hughes came to use panels while teaching as a time saver so students could jump into technique.

In her book, we learn how to select a good panel. Joyce covers all the supplies needed including sewing machine needles and feet, threads, fusible, batting, rulers and marking tools. She shows us how to prepare the panel including rearranging elements with fusible applique.

Then she shows us the techniques for free motion quilting and thread painting with detailed photos and complete instructions and hints.

Other techniques covered include trapunto, use of an overlay, three-D effects, bobbin work, couching, and embellishments. Finally, she shows how to add a border, block and bind off the quilt, and add a sleeve.

I was stunned by the finished quilts.

Joyce offers six projects: a flower, embellished tree, flag, a landscape, winter birds, and the heron seen above.

Last of all there is an inspiration gallery of art panel quilts of all types, from pillows to wall hangings.

The detail in the book is fantastic. Between the photos and instructions, I feel I could tackle my own project with success. What needle to use for different techniques, how to layer threads by color, how to fuse large pieces with less fusible--there are so many things I will take into my projects.

Now...its time to go shopping for panels!

I received a free ebook from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.

There are many other books similar to this in the quilting market. This book covers old ground that was first covered by others such as Ellen Ann Eddy, but not as well.