Jolietan to sign copies of new quilt book

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Updated: August 4, 2011 4:20PM

Simple nine-patch blocks, dazzling stars and basket blocks.

These are just some of the patterns quilters can make from their leftover fabrics using the just released book, “Simply Charming: Small Scrap Quilts of Yesteryear,” by Tara Lynn Darr of Joliet.

In this book Darr, a nationally-known quilt designer whose designs have been published in “American Patchwork & Quilting” magazine, features 20 little patchwork quilts, all of which have a nostalgic look reminiscent of Civil War patterns.

“I like history, so all of my quilt designs come from old antique quilts,” Darr said. “They’re either a reproduction or a new pattern that used the traditional patterns of antique quilts as inspiration.”

Darr’s favorite pattern is her “Grandmother’s Flower Garden,” an old antique pattern Darr has recreated many times. As a child, Darr spent many happy hours watching her grandmother quilt and her mother sew. Darr began sewing when she was a little girl and taught herself quilting 10 years ago. She has since made — and kept — hundreds of quilts.

“It can be hard to learn at first, but if you persevere you can get it down,” Darr said.

Darr had previously self-published two quilting books, now out of print, and an additional book about rug hooking. When Kansas City Star Quilts approached Darr about a third quilting book, Darr decided one featuring fabric remnants would have the greatest appeal.

“People are still going through hard times, so this book shows them how to use up their scraps,” Darr said. “If you want to recycle clothing instead, just make sure it’s 100 percent cotton. It stitches easier and wears longer.”

Even if you have never quilted but can sew a straight seam, Darr’s book may be all you need to get you started. Since beginners may not have leftover material, Darr suggests visiting a quilting shop and asking for good, inexpensive fabric.

Warning: quilting can become habit-forming.

“It’s cheap therapy,” Darr said. “It’s a relaxing and very soothing way to enjoy yourself.”

Darr’s company, “Sew Unique Creations,” is an online quilt shop specializing in Civil War reproduction patterns and fabrics. For more information, visit www.sewuniquecreations.com.