The girls went back to school yesterday. We’ve had a lovely holiday, but I was keen for them to return to school.

After six weeks of very little child-free time I decided to treat myself with a trip to the Subiaco Book Store. This is a great store – independent with an eclectic mix of books and the most amazing embroidery, quilting and knitting section. It’s not particularly child-friendly hence the desire to go there on my first child-free day.

I bought a copy of Material Obsession 2by Kathy Doughtly and Sarah Fielke. I had a quick look at the first one, but the quilts in this one appealed to me more.

Here’s the description from Amazon…

Each of the pairs of quilts in this gorgeous new book by quilters Sarah Fielke and Kathy Doughty springs from a single idea or shared moment of inspiration. The results – like non-identical twins – are inextricably linked, yet intriguingly different. With their reinterpretation of traditional designs, as well as a characteristic bold use of colour and dazzling patterns, Sarah’s and Kathy’s quilts will appeal to quilters of all levels – from new quilt-makers looking for the next challenge, to experienced quilters ready to embrace some of the more complex projects. With practical step-by-step instructions, a comprehensive basics section and glorious photographs, this is a book to make your fingers tingle with sheer inspiration.

I’ve always liked their work – in particular their use of colour and applique. In this book they each write a brief essay on their inspiration and then include detailed instructions to replicate the quilts. It’s a beautiful book – well presented with fabulous photographs.