q is for quilted christmas magic

Given my obsession with a craft that I've hardly ever touched, it should come as no surprise that Q is for anything to do with Quilting. And this time it's another book review! Christmas Magic is technically not just about quilting, but rather, patchwork with some quilty goodness thrown in.

The publishers sent this to me for review, and I'm glad they did. Here's why: If I saw this in a store, I might not pick it up. It looks a little cutesy folksy for me. (This coming from a cute addict who listens to indie folk music.) More specifically, it looks like a book my mom would like.

And my mom does like this book! But guess what? So do I!



Christmas Magic: Decorative Ideas for Winter & Yuletide Patchwork has some really stunning projects in it, and I could definitely see myself making them. (I had hoped to actually make one as part of this review, but life has been a little full...)

Just look at that basket of trees! Just one example of the amazing that's in here. But let me back up...



As I said, I've not spent very much time actually quilting and doing patchwork. Fortunately, this book has a nice big section on the basics! And it's nicely illustrated, which I love.




Speaking of being illustrated...

Each project has a fully illustrated cutting guide! They aren't just telling you to "cut 3 stars from each of 4 fabrics", they show you with pictures! Do other quilt and patchwork books do this? It's genius. Especially for visual folks like me.




The projects have some very nice details, which I can see carrying over to other types of things. Oh, and not everything feels strictly Christmas. There's some winter items and table decor that would make for a stunning New Year's table!




Quite possibly my favorite of the 23 projects are these two red and white items. Simple and sweet. And very reminiscent of my childhood, which was filled with red and white gingham!

Overall thoughts? Christmas Magic is perfect book for those who like sewing for the holidays, because it has so many strong ideas and projects. But maybe consider choosing some fabrics that would give it either a modern or a much more vintage feel. Unless you're making a gift for your mom...