The Top Twenty for quilt books etc.

Turns out that Amazon has a top ranking system for quilt books. "Fabulous Fat Quarter Bags" was at no. 13 when I looked tonight! Wow - anyone remember Top of the Pops? LOL

I was a bit more amazed to read the number of reviews they had collected for "Compendium of Quilting Techniques" - most I haven't seen before - and nice to read that I'm "recognised as one of the best in the business"!

Karenplatt.co.uk: This is a very compact 160-page book brimful of advice, instructions and photographs of everything you need to know about Quilting. The book is divided into eleven chapters. Each chapter deals thoroughly with an aspect of quilting such as materials, patchwork, applique, cutting, designs and patterns. There are four hundred tips and techniques including trade secrets. Discover all about this fascinating and varied craft. The step-by-step diagrams and instructions will guide you through every process whether you are a beginner of an experienced quilter wishing to find that special technique that will make your quilts look more professional. There are troubleshooting tips too, to rescue you when things go wrong. Susan Briscoe is a respected author on the subject of quilting and is recognised as one of the best in the business.

An indispensable compendium of technical know-how and troubleshooting tips. If you're one of the many machine knitters who also enjoy quilting, this is a 'must have' book. It includes tips and techniques you need to make special quilting projects as well as trade secrets. Step-by-step diagrams and instructions guide you through every stage of making a quilt, whether you are new to the craft or an improver. All the most popular techniques are explained in detail, with a host of troubleshooting ideas which show how to put them into practice.-Machine Knitting Monthly

An invaluable guide to all aspects of quilt making, from choosing the basic equipment to entering a competitive quilt show. There is an equal emphasis on hand and machine stitching, patchwork and quilting. It is set out well, with numbered panels and colourful diagrams and photos. The comprehensive patchwork techniques teach how to work logically and avoid mistakes, from easy triangles to curved stitching, applique and much more. The pages on hand quilting are a good example of the style. They cover the technique, the correct needles and thread and the pros and cons of using a hoop, a frame (with measurements to make one) and lap quilting. I cannot possible cover the wide range of subjects in this book. I recommend it strongly to all quilters, new and experienced, as my choice this month.-Patchwork & Quilting

Contains step-by-step instructions on all types of quilting. Beginning with the tools and equipment you need, choosing your fabrics and designing your quilt and other items. A range of patchwork 'tips' and 'fix it' advice on all techniques, various styles of design including American, English, Siminole, Sashiko, Trapunto and many, many more. There are sections on choosing your wadding and finishing your work. Information on the care, the cleaning and storage of your quilt. Also advice on showing your work and organising an exhibition. This is an interesting and informative book and should encourage all quilters, whether you are new or an established quilter.-West Country Embroiderers

This super compendium will prove a useful reference title to keep on the shelf as it contains some 400 tips, techniques and trade secrets for all styles of patchwork and quilting. Aimed at stitchers of all levels of expertise - it covers every aspect of quilting and is arranged by topic making it a really easy guide to use. Beautifully illustrated throughout with colourful photos and clear diagrams, each section includes techniques, new ideas and troubleshooting 'fixes' for when things don't quite go to plan. New quilters will find useful information on the essential equipment to get started plus ideas for selecting fabrics, planning a design, accurate cutting and stitching methods. Those with more experience will enjoy the multitude of advanced techniques for freehand curves, mitred seams and interesting weaves along with ideas for adding a 'wow' factor and tips for entering competitive shows. Embellishment and finishing techniques are not forgotten either with beautiful ideas for all styles of quilt including Sashiko, Trapunto, cording and applique.-Sewing World

As an ex-bookseller, I have mixed feelings about Amazon and other big discounters of books. The Net Book Agreement used to fix the price of book (in the UK) and it couldn't be sold under that price, the only exceptions being books that were remaindered into the National Book Sale (used to start on December 26th). While stores like Amazon undoubtedly help sell lots of copies of the books, they will also be getting much bigger discounts than even the authors get when they buy in their stock from the publishers and, of course, where authors get a royalty, it is based on publisher's receipts, not the actual cover price of the book - so the royalty works out less. Most quilt book authors sell their own books at shows or via their websites, as the bookseller's discount actually works out as a higher income per copy sold than the royalties do (and not all books have royalties attached - they are written for a flat fee, then it is up to the author to buy and sell copies to make any further income out of them). Self publishing of course works differently, with the author handling the production costs and distribution themselves. Quilt book authors aren't in the J K Rowling league - yet!