Sylvia's Bridal Sampler from Elm Creek Quilts

(More Reviews by This Staff Quilter)

Sylvia's Bridal Sampler really began as a story in the sixth book in Jennifer's Elm Creek Quilts series.  In this story, a staff of fictional quilters conspire to create an extraordinary sampler quilt to celebrate the wedding of one of the characters in the book.  They spread the word and ask Sylvia's friends and family to contribute one 6" block.  The story has many twists and turns but in the end they are able to present Sylvia with a beautiful quilt that celebrates her marriage as well as their friendship.   Jennifer likes to make the quilts featured in her books so she had her real friends help make the blocks for a real quilt.  What started as a fictional novel has spread around the world as groups have formed to make their own Sylvia's Bridal Sampler.

This book contains the directions to make 144 six inch blocks.  Many of the blocks have actual template patterns or templates for foundation piecing.  The blocks are arranged alphabetically so it is easy to find the one you want.  The photos of each block are excellent and each block has detailed directions and diagrams to make the piecing quick and easy.  While it may seem challenging to make a quilt with 144 different blocks, I think you will be tempted when you see how beautiful the quilt is when they are all sewn together.  Whether you want to make all the blocks yourself or trade blocks with friends, I think you will love the quilt and the experience of creating something so lovely!