Book Review

Picture Patchwork: 15 Charted Patterns for Novelty Quilts 

By JoAnn Lepore 

Landauer Publishing/ Fox Chapel Publishing, 2024 

This year we have been talking about different ways to use your stash, including some of those smaller pieces of yardage and scraps.  So far we have discussed small projects, scrappy quilts and converting quilt patterns  into scrappy quilts. Well, this time I want to talk about another type of quilt that lends itself to scrappy quilt, the charted quilt. While knitting, crocheting, and other needlework often uses charts to create different designs, it's something that isn’t often seen in quilting, but is a great way to create fun and personalized designs. 

The new book Picture Patchwork: 15 Charted Patterns for Novelty Quilts by JoAnn Lepore, does an excellent job of teaching you how to understand charts in quilting, make charted quilts (start to finish) and even start creating some of your own patterns. My personal favorite part is that JoAnn included a section on how to press your seams to both reduce bulk and save time (a big win when working with small pieces). The book, as the title indicates, includes 15 patterns, but they are spread over 3 different levels so you can jump in as a beginner or have more of a challenge as an advanced quilter.  I also love that the supply list includes not only the yardage but the number of squares for each color, which is very helpful if you are going for a scrappy style and looking to use up different parts of your stash. The patterns include representational designs, like the swan quilt on the cover, (“Lily Swan”) to more abstract designs, like “Garden Buffet.” I have to say the whale pattern (“I’m Lost”) is my favorite.

Charted patterns are also great because they are easy to personalize by changing the colors, adding some embroidery or even a new border design. This could be a great way to create personalized gifts, or even develop a fun novelty group quilt. 

With all the excellent directions, clear diagrams and a wealth of instruction, Picture Patchwork: 15 Charted Patterns for Novelty Quilts is a great resource for charted quilt patterns, using a variety of fabrics (or scraps!) to create beautiful designs.