International Literacy Day: Quilting Edition

Did you know that September 8th is International Literacy Day? This was first celebrated all the way back in 1966, and it is still celebrated today! The goal of this day is to bring to light the importance of books, reading and literacy programs. Another objective is to address the highly prevalent issue of illiteracy. Millions of people across the world, both children and adults, do not know how to read. This special day is set aside to encourage reading and education.

Are you a book lover? Many quilters use quilting to express their love of books!

Check out these 8 incredible quilts and projects inspired by books.

Surely they will inspire you to sew up your own book quilt!

Quilt Featuring Book Stacks and "Once Upon a Time"
Photo via Happy Quilting

Typography paired with whimsical quilting makes this bookshelf quilt truly unique. Melissa Corry of Happy Quilting designed this delightful project for the Moda Bakeshop. There, she shares a free tutorial full of detailed photos on how to make one of your own. The finished project can be enjoyed as a wall display or used on a twin-size bed.

Quilt with Colorful Stripes
Photo via Swim Bike Quilt

Katie Blakeslee of Swim Bike Quilt used this free block tutorial by Alissa Haight-Carlton for Sew Mama Sew to make a modern bookshelf quilt. This minimalist fabric library was created for a the do.Good Stitches Charity Bee, and the blocks were sewn by all of the members.

Quilt Featuring Little Girl with Heart Thought Bubble
Photo via Cut to Pieces

Check out this precious little girl clutching her beloved book and dreaming dreams. This amazingly detailed mini quilt by Angela Pingel is full of delicacy. The quilting, stamping and fussy cutting are just of few of the special touches in this masterpiece. See more photos and read about her inspiration on her blog.

Quilt Featuring Bookshelf Stacked with Books and Other Objects
Photo via Sewhooked

Are there any Harry Potter fans out there? If you love those books, this quilt is for you! The FREE Project of Doom quilt pattern by Bluprint member Jennifer O. was designed for a Mystery Block of the Week project. The award-winning paper-pieced pattern consists of 30 individual blocks.

Colorful Quilt of Girl with Cat and Book
Photo via Hanies

What is cozier than snuggling up with quilt and a good book? Flickr member Tacha Bruecher used careful cutting and precise raw edge embroidery to create this charming mini quilt. To see the full quilt, check out her photo set on Flickr.

[box type=”shadow”]Did you know Bluprint has a Quilting Club on Flickr?

It’s a great place to share projects that were inspired by Bluprint classes and patterns, connect with fellow Bluprint quilters, and find inspiration for your next project!

Join the Bluprint Quilting Club on Flickr today!

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Quilt with Colorful Books, Natural Backdrop
Photo via Lily’s Quilt

Lynne Goldsworthy shares her love of the classics in the Penguin Books quilt. Kona solids were used to re-create the beloved book covers in the quilt she gifted to her older sister. To read more about this one-of-a-kind project, check out Lynne’s blog.

Quilted Pillow with Book Sides
Photo via During Quiet Time

Are you a bookworm but don’t want to commit to a full bookshelf quilt? Perhaps a pillow is what you need! Amy Friend of During Quiet Time created an incredibly cute library pillow for her office. I love the special details, like the pieced books and free-motion quilting.

Quilted Book Bag Hanging on Door Handle
Photo via Retro Mama

Create your own library tote like Kim of Retro Mama did. A bit of fabric and quilting is all you need to create an eye-catching bag that is pieced and quilted. Who knew a library tote could look so good?

Do you love books and quilts? Have you ever created a book inspired project? Please share!

Share tips, start a discussion or ask one of our experts or other students a question.

3 Responses to “International Literacy Day: Quilting Edition”

  1. mullinski@bendbroadband.com

    searching for pattern for reverie quilt clair de lune collection

  2. Denise Zeno

    One more comment, the tutorials links on this web page are not linked to the instructions. I know that you are just starting. Patience.

  3. Denise Zeno

    Wao, so many classes or shows still missing, hoping they will be uploaded within time, e.g., Beautiful bags -The Harris Tote, Angela Walters Show, Big Fun Crafty Show, The Great Courses, Yoga, etc., etc. These are just some that I have looked for. wish you can bring back the Color Play for Quilters even if it is for purchase only