Welcome to the quilting bee! With the help of popular author/illustrator Gail Gibbons, you'll learn how quilts are made and discover their fascinating history as well as lots of fun facts.

This picture book with bright watercolors follows a quilting circle from the time a new quilt is planned to the point where it's displayed at the county fair.

Dating back centuries, quilting bees were important social functions, combining both work and pleasure. They still exist today and attract thousands of snippers, clippers, and stitchers from all walks of life.

Some traditional quilt patterns have funny names: Trip Around the World, Bear's Paw, Crazy Quilt. Today's quilt makers also use their imaginations to create new designs that are works of art.

Here's the book to get you started in the wonderful world of quilts. Maybe you'll want to make one of your own!

Discover the history, the art, and the fun of quilting:

• Step-by-Step Process: From choosing colorful fabrics to the final stitch, follow along and learn exactly how a beautiful quilt is made.
• A Look into History: Discover how quilting kept pioneer families warm and brought communities together, with fascinating facts about this piece of American history.
• Classic Quilt Patterns: Explore traditional designs with fun names like Bear's Paw, Crazy Quilt, and Trip Around the World, and get inspired to create your own!
• Creativity and STEM: See how art and math come together as quilters use shapes, patterns, and measurements to create their unique designs.

"Follows a contemporary 'quilting circle,' consisting of adults and two child helpers, from planning a new quilt to displaying it at the county fair. Historical background on quilting and on traditional American patterns, such as Road to California and Little Red Schoolhouse, enriches the simple text. Gibbons' bright watercolors serve the bold, geometric patterns well."