quiltsRfun

That’s what got me into quilting. I watched her PBS series then went to the library and checked out just about every quilt book they had. My first introduction to machine quilting was this book by Robbie and Tony Fanning.

https://www.amazon.com/complete-book.../dp/080196802X

It’s an older book and machine quilting has come a long way since then. But I mention it because I think the library is a good resource for looking into various quilting authors and techniques. Who or what appeals to me might not necessarily but what you’re looking for. If you find a book you like you can then look for it to buy.

Mkotch

I have bought and gotten rid of a lot of books over the years, and I agree that magazines have been the most helpful to me. Some feature techniques among the patterns and have patterns for a variety of skill levels. F&P's Love of Quilting and BH&G's American Patchwork and Quilting are often on the newsstands and at Joann Fabrics so you can try them to see if you want to subscribe. I do like Kim Diehl's patterns because they feature both pieced and appliqued quilts in various sizes. Because samplers are my favorite, my "Bible" is the "Quick and Easy Block Tool." It includes patterns for traditional pieced blocks in various sizes from about 3" to 12" or so.

luvstoquilt

Go on lone to Missouri Star Quilts. Jenny does tutorials that are easy to follow. You can often find her “Block” books on sale. I think she has the easiest quilts to make and her instructions are very complete. Welcome to this board. You can learn so much here.

sandy l

I think I have all of her books. Her first book is kind of basic starter and then the books get a little more involved (but not hard). I've made lots of quilts using her ideas.

csstexas

Onebyone. I am glad you mentioned Reversible Quilts: An Easy New Technique by Anita Murphy. In 1980 Anita founded my Guild , The Golden Triangle Quilt Guild, which meets in Beaumont ,TX. We lost Anita in 2011, but the guild has been and is a blessing in my life and I am glad her books live on too.

Reader1, I am sorry I don’t have a book to suggest , but would probably suggest Jenny Doan’s videos and other online resources as places to begin learning about quilt making.

Lena1952

Not a book but if you have a local quilt shop or guild, please consider taking a class on beginning quilting. Nothing beats a hands on class for learning. A favorite pattern designer is Terry Atkinson. Her pattern directions are well written and understandable.

illinois

My first book was Leisure Arts Complete Guide for Quilters. I still use it for reference to suggested sizes for quilts, on-point setting triangles, etc. Good basics in that book. My first quilt was a string quilt on muslin foundation. At the time I started (more than 20 yrs ago) a friend gave me a subscription to Quick Quilts that was a big help in finding something quick and easy but not boring. If you choose to watch online demonstrators, I recommend Eleanor Burns and more recently Donna Jordan. Both offer excellent suggestions as well as their technique for a being accurate in piecing. A lot of the "names" of today are not so much into the teaching but are selling product so be aware of that.

If you find older pattern books, you may find that the patterns all use templates rather than rotary cutting. Be careful of that if you don't intend to cut pieces with scissors as our previous generations did.

lindaschipper

Jenny Doan with Missouri Star Quilt Co. has the best video's and easy to understand patterns. She gets my first vote and to add another name to the pot I enjoy making Corry Yoder patterns.

maminstl

My first book was Dare to be Square and I made several projects from the book - leans toward modern designs. However, I would suggest spending a little time in your local library and just page through some things.

Reader1

Thanks for all your wonderful ideas. I completed my first 2 quilts and have completed all the blocks for the Binding Tool Quilt. I have to "square" all the blocks which is super scary to me and decide on the final lay out. Thanks again!!!