This innovative book is for quilters who are tired of traditional quilting patterns and want quilts that are uniquely their own. By explaining the principles of good design in terms that are easy for novices to understand and with appealing examples, "The Quilter's Book of Design" takes the mystery out of the design process and seeks to overcome quilters' "creative block." Ann Johnston explains the thinking behind quilt designs, describing the "tools" designers can use to create different visual effects - line, shape, value, color, pattern, and texture. She next offers different approaches or starting points to begin the creative process, including working with geometric shapes, cutting fabric freehand, drawing from photographs, seeking inspiration in ancient designs, and many more. The book is richly illustrated throughout with quilts that range from the very simple to the extraordinary, as well as photographs of quilts at different stages of completion. It includes more than 100 color photographs of finished quilts, quilts in process, and fabrics. It also includes clear, easy-to-read explanations of design concepts, with examples quilters can easily relate to.