Darling Little Dogs is not a new book, but I saw it for the first time on a recent trip. I pick up every dog quilt book I see to find out if there's a pattern for our little guy, a Brussels Griffon. I usually strike out, since the breed still seems to be somewhat scarce. So I was delighted to see that Darcy Ashton's book included a Brussels Griffon applique among its thirty-five patterns of small dogs.
General Instructions
The general instructions in Darling Little Dogs are brief, but cover the techniques you need to assemble blocks from the dog patterns. You'll find information to help you transfer the patterns and work them in needleturn or machine applique. The author included a section specifically for the dogs' eyes, an important component of most patterns.Dog Quilt Patterns
The quilt patterns in Darling Little Dogs are fun, and not difficult at all. Darling Dogs is made with all thirty-five patterns. The 1930's Baby Quilt has nine dogs that I'd consider cute and cuddly, surrounded by multiple borders of squares and triangles and finished with prarie points around its edges. There's a quilt of Lady's Dogs and another of Gentlemen's Dogs. Snips and Snails and Puppydog Tails and Batik Beauties are two more fun little dog quilts. Ms. Ashton also included instructions for a throw pillow and a door hanger.Each applique shape is on a separate page, along with a description of the breed and its history.
Final Thoughts
If you're a dog lover, I think you'll enjoy the patterns in this quilting book. The little dogs have plenty of personality and you can stitch them up in just one fabric or make them more detailed by incorporating multiple colors and textures into the designs.Take a look at the publishers Web site to read a list of all breeds included, and to take a look at the author's other nature-based books.
