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Judy
Murrah’s Jackpot Jacket by Judy Murrah Since 1991, when July Murrah’s well known book, Jacket Jazz, was published, she has authored five more books on quilted wearables. Considered the seminal book on pieced, quilted jackets, Jacket Jazz and the subsequent books, inspired thousands of sewers to create their own unique, colorful jackets and vests. Judy Murrah’s Jacket Jackpot continues with the fine quality of instruction that we have come to expect from her. Patterns are included for her five new projects. Choosing the most popular jacket and vest shapes from her previous books, she has designed each with only four different patchwork designs. This makes these projects faster and easier to complete than the more complex designs in previous books. The kimono-style, loose fitting jacket with dropped shoulders is a particularly popular, contemporary design. Furthermore, the jacket can be easily modified to a vest. All of the patterns are a perfect backdrop for her exuberant patchwork embellishment. The simple pattern pieces are marked for sizes 6 through 24 and are easily customized. The instructions are clear, concise and diagramed. The photographs are inspiring, and I am always amazed at the variety of different projects that emerge from groups of people, all using the same pattern. Throughout the book appear “Important Notes” and “Winning Tips” that are very useful. Complete shopping lists for each project are a welcome feature. A prolific designer and instructor, Judy is known for readily sharing her expertise. She invites the reader to participate in her next “Mystery Jacket” correspondence course, during which each student completes a jacket in five months. She includes, in an unusual move for an author, her street address and e-mail address for the reader. Review by Diana Norris |
