New tools and techniques have brought new life to the traditional craft of quilting. This has revived interest in the many attractive designs which are part of Canada's cultural heritage.

Authors Karen Neary and Diane Shink are both knowledgeable quilters with a special interest in the quilting history of Canada's Maritime provinces. They are also experts in the new techniques which make quilting a more enjoyable and less time-consuming activity. In this book, they provide the patterns and instructions which allow quilters to sew many attractive heritage quilts -- and explain how to create innovative variants on traditional patterns.

Among the distinctly Canadian quilts featured in the book are the Maple Leaf Signature Quilt and the Log Cabin Quilt. Uniquely Maritime quilt patterns included in this collection are the Mariner's Compass Tote Bag or Postcards from the Maritimes Applique Quilt. Other patterns included are the exotic French Silk Quilt, the Velvet Rail Fence Lap Quilt, Gram's Baptist Fans and the Little Red Hen Quilt.

Patterns include suggested colour schemes and fabrics, an introductory history about the quilt type, templates and detailed, tested directions.

KAREN NEARY of Amherst, Nova Scotia, specializes in original interpretations of traditional patchwork patterns aimed at contemporary quilters. A prolific designer since 1989, her work has appeared in books and magazines.

Karen Neary's profile page

DIANE MACLEOD SHINK is a retired teacher who divides her time between Montreal and Nova Scotia. Diane is a certified quilt appraiser. She lectures on all aspects of quilting and gives trunk shows of her quilt collection.

Diane Shink's profile page

"Quilters' book showcases heritage designs... Besides the history and patterns, the book features many colourful photographs."

Halifax Herald