Baltimore Beauties and Beyond : Studies in Classic Album Quilt Applique Volume 1
by Elly Sienkiewicz and Bobbie Sloan
review by L.
Mrs. Sienkiewicz's books are a wonderful introduction to the highest form of fine needlework: the applique quilt based on quilts made in the city of Baltimore, Maryland, in the 1800s. They are a standard which serves as a model of design excellence. The first volume is primarily a text on how to applique, and is arranged in lessons in which the reader is shown, on a step by step basis, how to do the illustrated blocks. All blocks are shown in full color and full-size patterns are given.
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All of Mrs. Sienkiewicz's books are based on the traditional Baltimore Album quilts. The books are lavishly illustrated in full color. The patterns are based on papercuts, elaborate versions of what children used to do with scissors and folded paper, like snowflakes. One-fourth of the pattern is given fullsize in the book; the other three-fourths are mirror images of the first.
more books by Elly Sienkiewicz

  Baltimore Bouquets : Patterns and Techniques for Dimensional Applique
by Mimi Dietrich, Linda Campbell, and Stephanie Benson
review by L.
The blocks in this book are an absolute feast to the eyes. They are modeled upon the traditional album quilts, but have been updated and simplified slightly to appeal to modern tastes. There is a block for a heart-shaped wreath, which could be the basis for a perfect wedding or anniversary gift. There is a lyre wreath block which would delight any music lover. And a thistle wreath which would appeal to anyone who loves wildflowers, and many more marvellous blocks. Patterns are full-size.
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  Miniature Baltimore Album Quilts
by Jenifer Buechel
review by L.
This book uses a small amount of applique, but is largely a silk ribbon embroidery book. Silk ribbon embroidery instructions are clear, and the block designs are gorgeous. The pictured quilt looks like a very elaborate version of the original Baltimore Album design.
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