Hello to my dear fellow bloggers,
As you know, for the past month, we have been doing a sow-a-long finding blocks from The Farmer's Wife book. Unfortunately, the author, Laurie Hird, emailed me telling me that she felt that my blog violated her copyright. She insisted that I stop referring to her book and stop posting cutting instructions. She thinks people will stop buying her book because of this sow-a-long. As you know, I am a lawyer and did my own legal research. I also consulted with a copyright lawyer. We do not think our sow-a-long violates her copyright. However, this is supposed to be fun. I'm not looking to get involved in a lawsuit. I have an elderly mother in a nursing home and just do not want to spend the energy to fight. SO, based on her insistence, we are now going to do something a little different!
First off, we are still sowing along! This will be the Barrister's Sow-A-Long (a friend had suggested the Rancher's Husband or Farmer's Ex-Wife!). I will continue to post cutting instructions and pictures of 6 blocks a month, on the first and third Wednesday of the month. We will still make 72 blocks by year's end, which you can set in any manner you choose. They will be fabulous. Your blocks are already amazing. I am still going to do a linky-thing or find some way for everyone to share their progress.
Secondly, the blocks can be found in many other sources, not just in her book. They are public domain blocks and have been published for years. I will give you the name of the blocks, still give cutting instructions, and post pictures, but will not refer to any pages from her book. However, they will be blocks which can be found in a variety of places. You can use any of your books to find them.
Third, my good friend, Bonnie Hunter, and I are going to collaborate on this project. You will be able to find my sow-a-long on both our blogs!
I can't tell you how sorry I am about this. I was so excited to have so many of you follow my blog for my sow-a-long. I am so flattered~! I'm terribly disappointed. And extremely sorry if you feel that I have misled you or somehow let you down. I sincerely hope that you will continue to stay with me and sow along with our group. This was not my fault. But do not despair...
SO, that being said, there will be 3 new blocks on Wednesday March 7th. BE READY!!! No slacking off. NO excuses. I know you are all caught up and excited to work on this quilt. I am, too, and am still looking forward to hearing from everyone.
Wednesday March 7th is the day!! See you then!!!
Love to you all,
Randy
It's too bad she feels that way as I went out and bought the book especially so I could follow along!!!
ReplyDeleteWhatever you end up calling it, I am anxiously awaiting your next post.
ReplyDeleteI also bought the book because of your sow-along - maybe we should boycott and all return our books - will still be following along - thank you for not throwing in the towel and not to continue this
ReplyDeleteGood grief, did the author not recognize free publicity? I bought the book to follow along with you, Randy. Don't think I would have purchased it if you hadn't started this. I'm so sorry this has happened, but glad that you are not letting it get in our way. I look forward to the next posting of instructions. You are not the person who let us down, and you are more than making up for it.
ReplyDeleteThe sign of a good quilter is to carry on, no matter the obstacle in her path... just lovely opportunities for creative thinking...
ReplyDeleteHi Randy, I had this book sitting on my shelf and only got started using it because of your sow-a-long. Maybe if the author had given more instructions with her book, readers would not be looking elsewhere for help. I just love the fun of joining a group and watching everyone's progress and ideas. As you say, the blocks are traditional blocks which can be found anywhere. Both you and Bonnie are helping so many people get enjoyment out of their quilting. Thanks!
ReplyDeletePS Will you be having a new button to replace the old one?
ReplyDeleteGood to hear that the sew-a-long will be continuing, I finished the first 4 blocks today. I loved your concise no nonsense directions and I can't wait till Wednesday (well Thursday for me).
ReplyDeleteAnna
I am surprised at the author's attitude...many people have bought her book participate in the sowalong.....most authors would be thrilled to see so many people enjoying using her book to make their own quilt. I will not be purchasing any more books by this author.
ReplyDeleteThe same as everyone else you are the only reason that I bought the book, you have given me incentive to begin this huge project knowing we would have a group to work with and have fun.
ReplyDeleteI think your outlook is super and so glad that you have found another avenue, again being a quilter can always make us so creative not just in quilting.
You have a great blog love to follow all your posts.
Please give your mom a hug she has a wonderful daughter.
Good grief! What a bunch of nonsense... you think some people would be grateful for the free publicity!
ReplyDeleteI have been resisting purchasing this book and joining in your sow-along because of a huge pile of UFOs I am determined to finish but was caving and had planned to purchase the book this week so I could join in.
I think I'm going to choose another project and NOT purchase this book... I don't believe in rewarding people for bad behavior. I will, however, continue to follow your Barrister's Sow-Along to enjoy all the blocks you are making!
I read about this book over a year ago, purchased it, and convinced a few friends to buy it. We even started a facebook group to show our progress. While some in our group made great progress, I never even got started because of the frustration with the templates. I found you through Bonnie Hunter, and while I still have not gotten started on the project, I have been adding your notes to the margins of my book. I really appreciate your cutting instructions as an addendum to the book. Hope the author realizes that her next book should include those rotary cut instructions. I am sorry that she feels the way she does and hope that she is reading theses comments to see how many people purchased her book as a result of your encouragement. Thanks again for your help and will continue to follow along.
ReplyDeleteThe author of this book is not a quiltmaker nor an author. When I purchased the book I expected cutting and sewing instructions to be explained in depth. Very disappointed in the book and cannot understand the authors reaction to your blog. Prehapes if she had given more detailed instructions in the book there would not be blogs trying to explain to quiltmakers how to sew the blocks. After making 17 blocks I just stored the book and fabrics away until another time.
ReplyDeleteOh, good grief! I think it's irresponsible to publish a book without the instructions!! What...are we mind-readers? I'm glad you're doing this....and now with Bonnie Hunter as well, I might just finish this! Thanks so much for all you're doing!
ReplyDeleteBravo!! Keep going. I second all the previous comments. I think this author just made a big blunder.
ReplyDeleteOh Boy!!M$%^# it's okay I'll follow along no matter what you call it or where the blocks come from. Some things are not worth the fight and good for you to figure something else out. Quilters don't care as long as we can sew.
ReplyDeletecathy
I bought the book last year and enjoyed reading the stories in it but was so disappointed to find NO INSTRUCTIONS at all for the piecing of the blocks. I also was frustrated that the templates are to be printed one tiny template per page...what a waste of paper! So I decided I would not make the quilt. Your sow-a-long was just what I needed to actually make the quilt...you were writing DIRECTIONS for the blocks!!! What a lovely idea! Good for you, and THANK YOU for your dedication and offering a free gift to quilters everywhere! The author should thank you for doing the work she chose not to do herself. :)
ReplyDeleteI wonder if she also emailed Marti Michell? She is giving instructions using her templates....Glad you are still going to make blocks and do the sow-a-long. I'm sure that most of us sewing with you already have the book and were frustrated with it's lack of instructions. Let us know when you get a new button thing made, we sure would not want to advertize her book on our blogs. Thank you for sticking with us.
ReplyDeleteLike others, I also bought the book to take part in this Sow A Long and am disappointed with it. Not to worry though, I'll still be sow-ing along!
ReplyDeleteAnn J (France)
I will be sewing along also. The blocks are public domain blocks and I am choosing my own fabrics. I'm also a designer and would love to have free publicity when I design. Keep it up and enjoy your mom while you can. Joan
ReplyDeleteGood for you Randy! Don't let the turkeys keep you from flying high! I'm not doing the sew-along because I have too much else going on right now, but I have a few friends who have tried to do the blocks on their own using just the book. What frustration!!!! I think all of them have quit work on them because of no instructions.
ReplyDeleteSorry to hear of the divorce, wonder if others had received the same letter. I follow Tazzie's blog and she's doing a series of blocks for a quilt. So am I in violation of her copywrite when I draw the block into my EQ7 program? It tells me the measurements - I can figure out the construction process - I don't have to do the blocks in her order. It must be an ego thing on her part. Keep the blocks coming, I need to get busy with them. Love reading your blog. Robert, in northern Iowa.
ReplyDeleteSounds like we are all in agreement. I'm so glad you are continuing this sew-a-long!
ReplyDeleteBought the book on under your directions because it was not user friendly. Thanks for carrying on. No slackers allowed, moving forwards. Thank you for your leadership.
ReplyDeleteI'm with you Randy, I appreciate all your hard work. So, I'll change the name of my quilt to "The Barrister Quilt" - like it a bunch!!! The sow-a-long is such a good way to stay connected with fellow quilters!! Thanks!
ReplyDeleteHave a blessed day!
I had bought the book about a year ago, and found it to be a 'good read'. But that wasn't the sole purpose for me buying the book. Thanks so much for carrying on with showing us how to make blocks. Sorry the author doesn't understand the giving ways of quilters.
ReplyDeletecindy
In my opinion the author made a huge mistake. I bet she has sold many more books with the sew along. That's the reason I bought it and I would not have attempted it otherwise. Yes! I will continue with you and echo everyone else's comments.
ReplyDeleteI'm glag you are continuing the sew along and know it will be fun. Thank you for doing this.
I already had the book, and had made several blocks with another group, and I am so surprised that this happened. I agree with copywrites, but this is rediculous, and not worth a fight (or lawsuit) over! Thank you for finding a way to continue! By the way, I found a button on Bonnie Hunter's blog for your Sow A Long and have replaced the other one on my blog!! I look forward to Wednesday! God Bless.
ReplyDeleteI have had this book for over a year and never would have started the quilt without your Sow a Long. In fact the book is only a lot of pretty pictures and practically useless. Maybe if she didn't want people trying to explain her book she should have done a better job writing it.
ReplyDeleteI too wonder if she has written Marti Michell and all the other blogs who have held sew a longs about this book.
In any respect I am so happy you are going to continue. Your help is greatly appreciated.
Blessings and prayers for your Mom.
Thank you for pressing on. I am all caught up (started 2 posts behind) and am anxious to see your next choice of blocks. I will update the new "title" of our sow-a-long on my blog. Keep 'em comin'!
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry. I was expecting this to happen. It's come up many times with this author. Several bloggers I know have had this issue. Even on the yahoo group that the author allows, there's been issues with how measurements are shared. I believe she was fixing the issue of rotary cutting instructions for her next book, but it is still a problem for farmer's wife.
ReplyDeleteI find it sad because every blog I've seen doing something like this has told people to buy the book. I know I only bought it because of one of those blogs. I agree that it's not worth the legal battle. I'm glad you're finding a way to keep going.
I've been enjoying watching every week and have been thinking I needed to pick it back up. I put it down for time issues and for the sour taste I had gotten from the author over sharing rotary cutting instructions. I don't see how it can be a copyright issue to provide info she didn't provide. And her attitude, I've read her emails on the yahoo site, really turned me off on buying her next book.
Thanks for sharing how to ignore that sour taste and still make a wonderful quilt. I swear I'm going to pick it back up now.
For those with questions on Marti's template email, she got permission from the author. You have to agree to buy the book and they are only published via email distribution lists a few times a year. The instructions don't tell you how to assemble the block, you have to refer to the book for that.
This is totally frivolous!! I was debating about purchase of this book--it all looked like such fun; now, I certainly won't. NO INSTRUCTIONS? What kind of quilt book is that? I will jump in and out making blocks that appeal to me for my own little sampler--as I have big stuff on hold already. Keep on "keepin' on" and remember "what goes around, comes around" :-)) Julierose
ReplyDeleteGlad you got it all figured out! Bonnie told me what was going on. So crazy.
ReplyDeleteSow...as in mama pig?
I have THE book...but I LOVE your cutting directions. Thanks for keeping it up!
Sow, as in planting seeds I believe.
DeleteI have the book and so does everyone who is sowing along. I could see her saying there was a violation if you were presenting these blocks as your own. Guess she didn't want to sell more books. I guess we shouldn't try and figure people out. ;)
ReplyDeleteDon't worry, we know you did nothing wrong. AND we appreciate all you are doing. I wouldn't make any of the quilt without help.
Thanks again!
I will still follow along with you! Looking forward to the next installment.
ReplyDeleteI would think it would sell more of her books, I know I am a current buyer. Still sounds like fun and COUNT ME IN ! ! ! !
ReplyDeleteA smart woman picks her battles and I think you are right not to put too much energy into this when we can have tons of fun with plenty of other blocks. Bonnie Hunter is a great partner and has learned a thing or two about the quilting business too...not all the easy way either.
ReplyDeleteThanks for continuing, I for one am here to support you and have fun sowing along :0).
Happy Sewing Randy
Randy, I support you too. I did BUY the book myself. Your help was just that HELP!!!!
ReplyDeleteXOXOXO Subee
I am happy to see all the other comments and totally agree with them.I am looking forward to seeing the next blocks and your instructions.
ReplyDeleteHugs from France
Look s like the Famers Wives goes back to the library and I will not be purchasing it. Almost bought it at a quilt shop at full price last Friday. Too bad - so sad for the author.
ReplyDeleteAll the comments I had read on your blog in the past days sounded like everyone was buying the book to follow along. I bought the book and the EQ software over a year ago to get the cutting directions because I thought it would be easier than the one piece per page that the cd that comes with the book provides. I love the letters in the book. They give such an insight to that time in history. I wasn't sure the author inteded the book to be an instruction manual on how to make the quilt. If she did, it wasn't as clear as it could have been. I'm so glad you are continuing on with this. Afterall, who wants to fight over copyrights etc when you can spend your time sewing! Hang in there Randy, we're all behind you and are looking forward to more blocks and I for one can't wait to see everyone's final product.
ReplyDeleteRandy, kudos to you, girlfriend. I totally agree with how you decided to proceed. Yes, you could fight her all the way, but save your energy.
ReplyDeleteI am a shop owner and good friends of Randy's. As I read through all of the comments, I have come to realize that the author is the one losing out on this deal. I spent six weeks writing these blocks on EQ for a "Saturday Sampler" for the "Farmer's Wife" last year. We had fun doing this, but the ladies that attended would not have completed even half the blocks without our help. What makes that any different than what Randy is doing?
I now am taking a stand. I will not be carrying Laurie's newest book, "The Pony Express Sampler", which I have already sold a ton of them. They're being pulled off the shelf!
Keep up the good work, and don't let this little speed bump slow you down! Pat
I love seeing my friends rally round each other!
DeleteThere's a group of us that call ourselves "The Suck-It-Up Sisters" and most of the time, we really mean it. But we also stick together like glue. When the tough gets going, the going gets tough! Pat
DeleteI love it! If I had a quilt store, I'd stop selling them too!! LOL
DeleteI am one of those "Suck it up Sisters" and one of the gals that participated in the "Saturday Sampler" and Pat is right, we would never have finished without her wonderful guidance. You "Sow along girls" keep "plowing" thru and you will end up with an incredible, beautiful quilt.
DeleteI agree with the above comments -- about the book, about loss of sales, and about being excited to sow-along with Randy and her BARRISTER'S BLOCKS. I'm ready for Wednesday :)
ReplyDeleteI will be happy to participate in the Barristers sow along instead! Even better because on a limited income I can't really afford the book! Sow Happy!
ReplyDeleteWow. That's really kinda funny of her to react that way. I'd be willing to bet that hardly any blogging quilters knew of her book before the sew-along started, and that she got a lot of free publicity that actually boosted sales, not hindered them. Same as with the Dear Jane phenom. If I were doing this sew-along, I'd happily follow right on along with the new name. Great way to handle the situation.
ReplyDeleteSo sorry Randy! What a great gal you must be to not let this stop you from going forward. I was afraid of this happening as I had watched, with shock and sadness, the same thing play out on another blog and at the Yahoo group. I just shook/shake my head at the author's short sidedness. Left me with such a bad taste in my mouth that I had a hard time completing my blocks (using templates) - which I did do but still haven't made up into a quilt. I was sorry I had bought the book and will not be buying any more of her books. Ever.
ReplyDeleteI had planned an making another set of blocks with you (have already started) and am so glad to see that although I know this has been a downer for you, that you have chosen to re-find your joy and enthusiasm and carry on. I wanted to re-find mine too. :)
What a mind boggling stupid thing to do for somebody who needs the quilting community much more than the quilting community needs her!
ReplyDeleteI have a couple of friends planning to start making a quilt as a group and we looked at the book but hesitated because of the way the blocks are presented and the lack of instructions and templates. I myself was considering buying the book - no longer. I'll be using my "500 quilt blocks" that anyway have more info and instructions and will make my own design. I'll make sure to tell this story to as many fellow quilters as I come across.
Good luck to you - I'll add you to my Google Reader and come to visit and see your progress.
Based on reading your comments I bought this book, which I might not have done if it weren't for the SOW-ALONG. The author should be glad you're teaching it, just like many others teach out of published books and pattersn. Would it have made her happy if you had required us to buy the book in order to participate? If she wants to be that petty maybe I should return the book and just work from public domain patterns.
ReplyDeleteI agree with protecting your copyright but I wonder if she knows the interest this sparked in her book?
I'm sewing along anyway...
Even if I have her book (Farmer's Wives), I will follow you as I did before the notice.
ReplyDeleteOh what a bummer - I just ordered the book on Friday on line! Had never heard of the book until Bonnie Hunter linked to your blog. Obviously this person knows nothing about promotion or advertizing - you were certainly doing her a favour by hosting the sew-along. I certainly won't be looking for her next book.
ReplyDeleteThanks for your tenacity to keep at it. - I'm looking forward to continuing along with you & all the other great quilters that have signed on. I got caught up on the weekend - looking forward to the next Wednesday blocks.
It's a shame she couldn't write cutting instructions in HER book. It is one of the most poorly written books I have ever purchased. Keep up the good work on all the public domain blocks that happen to have the same name as her blocks. Hmmm...
ReplyDeleteYou are not disappointing me...you took the time and initiative to do this...good for you. Thanks so much. M
ReplyDeleteI just found your blog and the Sow-a-long. I'd like to join but am not sure I have all the already posted blocks. Any chance you could send me them? Thanks, Marilyn
ReplyDeleteI have to say that I only bought the book BECAUSE of your blog. I had never heard of her book before I saw you talking about it. Oh well. I am so glad you are continuing to do it. I like the "ex-wife" thing. LOL
ReplyDeleteWhat an outstanding display of support you have, Randy. I'll join all the echos of thanks mentioned above -- for helping us figure out no-instruction blocks, for encouraging me to pull my book off my library shelf and actually use it, for bringing Bonnie S on board to support all of us, and mainly for continuing with the Barrister's Sow-Along. I will continue to follow along with a smile because of you, not because of the author who doesn't understand free advertising when it was handed to her on a silver platter.
ReplyDeleteI no longer plan to buy her next book, and I hope she's reading these comments and understands what we're saying.
Thanks for your willingness to continue despite the obstacles that are being thrown at you. I'm looking forward to continuing to follow along no matter what it's called. The truth is that although I admire the quilt and have enjoyed reading the text of the book, I would never have tackled it regardless of whether or not the instructions were there. It seemed quite overwhelming. But to have an "assignment" evey two weeks which makes it managable and lots of people to play along with, I reasoned that I could do it without creating another UFO. Thanks again.
ReplyDeleteLinda in CT
Go, you good girl!!
ReplyDeletethe truth shall always prevail. Just so you know (and Laurie) I did go out and purchase the book so that I could play along. Clearly this is an author that needs to go back to marketing school. Anyway, I have made my first six and it is my intention to play along. Quilt ON!!
ReplyDeleteoooh, I'm a late starter and I too was getting ready to order her book! I hadn't heard of Farmer's Wife until I'd seen your sow-a-long on Bonnie's Blog. So disappointing....it's really too bad she feels that way as I see several books sales from this blog alone. I suppose I don't need her book after all....however, I'm still on board!
ReplyDeleteI also bought the book and was disappointed that it did not come with cutting instructions. That is why I am so excited about your sow along. I actually have seen this happen before on a yahoo group. Some of the gals were posting cutting instructions that they had figured out and then the author put a stop to it. I am so glad you figured out a way to continue with the sow along and to help us all to make this quilt. I personally will not buy any other books she ever writes. She doesn't realize how many books she has sold because there are others who are willing to fill the in gap and give out piecing instructions. If she is going to be so vain and prideful, then I can't support any new projects she publishes.
ReplyDeleteRandy, when I saw that she'd posted a comment on one of your first posts, I was afraid of something like this. But I'm so happy that you are pushing along -- and with Bonnie Hunter, too! Like most of us, I bought the book. But I think I'll make the icon for the link on my blog to be yours.
ReplyDeleteWhat a treat to look forward to! I can't wait for the next 3 blocks!
Funny thing is I also went out and bought the book and wouldn't have if it hadn't been for your blog. This does sadden me as the book doesn't live up to my expectations...!
ReplyDeleteI bought her book about a year ago...got frustrated and put it away. After reading about your Sow Along on Bonnie's Blog I was thrilled! I'm still with you and will be enjoying all of the fruits of your labor. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteSame thing here. While the book is lovely the CD and templates are ridiculous. I was so excited about your posts.
Deletelooking forward to Wed :)
ReplyDeletedon't let her get you down....I am happy your going forward.
I agree the book was poorly done I won't even blog about it
I will just show my blocks and link to you...
Kathie
Sounds like she may have shot herself in the foot...this "Sow-Along" is free marketing for her book. I doubt that I will ever purchase another book that she has authored...her attitude leaves a lot to be desired. Glad to hear we are continuing on!!!
ReplyDeleteGood for you. I am still going to be "sowing along". I only bought the book to follow along. Otherwise I would never have bought it. I never sew with templates. That is just too fussy for me. I don't plan on buying any more of her books.
ReplyDeleteI think that the author should be tickled pink that her book is the latest craze and that every quilter in blogland is buying the dang thing so that they can follow along! Talk about FREE ADVERTISING!! Geesh - some people’s kids!!
ReplyDeleteso happy i did not buy the book,,,but did get my blocks started,,,wooohooooooooooooooooooooo,,,,,,,tks for doing this,,,as i have tons to learn, and this is such a grt way to do it,,,three blocks done and already, i learned bunches,,,,thanks hon,,,SMILES ARE FREE,,,,PLANT DAILY
ReplyDeleteWow....I am amazed...I bought the book ...was also very disappointed in the block instruction and excited for another (of many) place to share these great blocks. Sad to hear the author was narrow minded...she was getting publicity and looks to me like she WAS selling more books maybe not so much anymore .
ReplyDeleteI will still be sowing along. My book has sat on shelf for two years and i dusted it off to follow along. I am proud of you for not giving up. I am sick at the moment and i am really looking forward to making another three blocks tomorrow. Keep your chin up. You have inspired me and like Bonnie Hunter given me the confidence to piece small pieces on my machine. Have a big hug from a nurse in the uk and give your sweet mum a hug and a kiss on the forhead from me. Jan x
ReplyDeleteI guess I'm late in finding you, I would certainly like to join the Sow along, but knowing me, I would get very frustrated unless I could easily find your post in the order you posted. I know it would be alot of work to do it, but I'll bet there are others who would also like to sow along, if we could start at the beginning and play "catch up." Could you please post how to find the start and when the post are updated?
ReplyDeleteThanks. I love the way you handled what would have been a scary situation for me.
Pauline, please join us! The first 6 blocks were easy; they went together really fast. And with Bonnie Hunter joining Randy, I'll bet the posts will be easy to find -- Bonnie posts on Facebook a couple of times a day. If you don't already read her, her blog is a joy. Hope to see your Sow-a-Long blocks!
ReplyDeleteIt's a sign! I have Quilt-Pro 5 for Mac (they don't make EQ for Mac) and every day they send a block-of-the day. Today's is the Barrister's Block!
ReplyDeleteI had never heard of the book until your sow-along and bought it because of your blog--I think the author should be thanking you! Thank you for continuing the project, I'm looking forward to tomorrow's installment!
ReplyDeleteI did not do the Farmer QAL on Flickr/Yahoo as there were no cutting directions in the book. There is no way I will use the template method- too frustrating. Enjoy making blocks that are in no way copyrighted and have been passed on for generations. Will come back to visit soon.
ReplyDeleteI too had never heard of the book until your sow-along. I made the first 6 blocks and just love them. I am a Bonnie Hunter fan so I am doing them all out of shirts. I am so excited that tomorrow is Wednesday so we can get 3 more blocks. I don't care what kind of blocks they are, I just like the idea that we are all doing it together. I would love a linky thing to show off my blocks. Ask Bonnie how to do it. She's good at that.
ReplyDeleteRandy, just keep up what your doing. Rock On.....
Randy, so sorry about this trouble but will still follow along with you. Like some of the others I only bought the book because of your blog. Sure wish I could return it now.
ReplyDeletePat, good for you. I'm glas you will not carry these books. I will never buy another book from this author.
I sewed six blocks this month, no small thanks to your inspiration. But others are right, even with the CD there are no construction directions and no cutting directions. If you print the templates, they may or may not be the right size to make a six inch block. So you have to look elsewhere for instructions or be able to do the math.
ReplyDeleteI'm sure we all appreciate your help!
The author's email address is thefarmerswifequilt@yahoo.com. Maybe we should all let her know just what we think of this. I know I will tell people not to buy her books.
ReplyDeleteTo Anonymous: I don't think we want to do that... it might open up a can of worms and create a problem Randy doesn't need. It's just too bad she doesn't see the potential for more book sales from the free advertising!
ReplyDeleteIt appears there are a lot of us who agree that it is great that you will continue the sow-a-long. Like so many others, I purchased the book and never did anything with it. I appreciated your providing guidance with the construction for each block and definitely plan to continue sewing along.
ReplyDeleteI've had this book for about a year and have got as far as cutting out the templates but having seen the issues here and the author's short sightedness I am reluctant to start the quilt as the meaness leaves a bad taste. It is a shame there isn't more generosity of spirit as with Bonnie Hunter who is soooo generous.
ReplyDeleteIt is clear that the author is making a great mistake. I've had the book since the beginning of September and I like reading the letters and enjoy refering to the way the blocks are depicted. Now I doubt that I would pay money to get her Pony Cart book, if she is so against a group working from a blog. I may not have jumped into making the blocks I have done already without the help that you are providing by figuring out the measurements. I appreciate your work very much! Forge on and keep on sewing! I'll be a part of your group, however it gets done.
ReplyDeletecan't say anything that hasn't already been said...
ReplyDeleteI am giving up the FWS - book and all and will be following your sow along!
What ever blocks I've already made can go into the new project if I so chose, but we'll see.
Thanks for doing what most quilter's do...share their time and talent!
Looking forward to Wednesday....
To Anonymous: Please don't do that. Believe me, she does not care what we think. She was personally involved in a prior discussion I saw on this and her mind was closed on the subject.
ReplyDeleteit is a shame that she felt violated by your posts. for one, i have the book and had not used it until your posts. it would seem she would feel complimented instead. now she gets no credit or reference at all. even though they aren't HER blocks. i'm glad you found a way to work around this. waiting in the wings! :-)
ReplyDeleteCan't wait until tomorrow to sew three more blocks!!!!! Thank you for your work - sorry this has been a source of trouble for you. I, too, had come to a halt in making the blocks after two of them (using the templates) didn't come out to be the right size. You helped me to get "unstuck" last month.
ReplyDeleteI, too,am anxiously waiting for the next blocks. Hope things go more smoothly for you in the future.
ReplyDeleteOh how frustrating! I have to much going on this year to be able to join in on the sow-along, I decided to buy the book to do at a later time. Now I am faced with making the decision to get caught up with everyone and make this or just dust off my book weekly!
ReplyDeleteI have been real excited to find your blog and start the "Farmers Wife" quilt. I definitely bought the book and really like following it along with your monthly blocks. I have two friends who also started and are still buying the book. So, it probably hasn't hurt her sales a lot, but I guess I understand. However, we will be very excited every month to follow along with your project. So happy that you are taking the time to do it for us. Keep them coming.
ReplyDeleteThe author can rest assured that because of you, her sales went up! not down! I, for one, bought the book because of your blog! Give her time, maybe she will change her mind when she sees this is a blessing and a great way to honor her efforts, not take away from them. In the meantime, I will be sewing along :) Thank you for helping all Farmers Wife's everywhere.
ReplyDeleteOh my ... sounds like the author just shot herself in the foot. Too bad she didn't embrace your efforts and send you encouragement instead of ultimatums. It gladdens me to hear/read all the positive comments you have received from quilter cyberspace. Kudos to you.
ReplyDeleteTerry
I was and still am excited to sow-along. In all honesty, I had her book on my wish list and knew that I would buy it BECAUSE of your blog. Not sure now if I will. I like your "let's just have some fun" attitude. I think she owes you a apology.
ReplyDeleteLike many of you, I own the book. But it is so much more fun to do the quilt together - I'm very pleased that we can continue, thank you for the effort!
ReplyDeleteI for one thank you like everyone else for taking this on and giving us the instructions. I have had the book for awhile but after trying to print the templates and having bad results I gave up too. I only started this because of you and Bonnie. I will continue because of you. I did the first 6 and am very happy with mine and am excited for the rest.
ReplyDeleteThe author could well take a lesson from Brenda of Dear Jane Fame....had it not been for the on line groups and the help recieved on them, certainly not in her books either, she wouldn't have sold anywhere near the books she sold, nor would she be on the teaching circuit.WE bought a book so we would have the setting instuctions, and the placement of the blocks, but we could figure it out ourselves very easily.....I am sure the rest of us won't be buying the book. There are several of us doing it as a guild BOM......she surely did shoot herself in the foot, and I don't see her being very successful.
ReplyDeleteThanks for continuing with the instructions, Randy. I agree with the comments that if the book gave instructions for rotary cutting and how to assemble the blocks, there would be no need for you to do all that you are doing. The blocks are obviously traditional blocks that anyone can use. I will be proud to have a Barrister's Sow-A-Long quilt!
ReplyDeleteThank you for sticking with it. I bought the book because of your blog and Bonnie Hunter's blog. I wish I could return it. I am looking forward to every post and can't wait to see the quilts everyone makes.
ReplyDeleteI bought the book BECAUSE of your sow-a-long - but I will NEVER buy another book of hers. Does she know what public domain block patterns mean????
ReplyDeleteGlad that I have not bought that book yet. How sad for that author. If I were her, I would have contracted you to collaborate with me on my next book, instead of asking you to stop promoting the book FOR FREE! That is so very sad. You are taking this all very professionally though, so good for you. Best wishes.
ReplyDeleteA note of encouragement. Thank you for continuing. I am very disappointed in Laurie's reaction and hope she is reading these comments. I love the Farmer's Wife book but I am probably won't buy any more books by her. Thank you for sharing Ryan with us. He is absolutely beautiful and being grandma is the greatest. Please continue to keep us updated on Ryan.
ReplyDeleteGuess I don't need to buy the book now. thanks
ReplyDeleteI was just about to purchase the book because of your sew-a-long - now I won't. The author has likely shot herself in the foot over this, esp as most(?all) of the blocks are public domain anyway!
ReplyDeleteI'll still be joining in on your sew-a-long whatever it's new title is going to be. It is the camaraderie of doing it as a virtual group that appealed to me :)
I'm also following along. Thanks for keeping it going.
ReplyDeleteWow! I just wanted to let you know I'm glad you are going to continue with this. I have not started mine yet (Ellen's blocks are making me join in the fun!) but plan to start later this month and will be catching up. I had not purchased this book yet but have others without the cutting instructions that I just look at. I don't have the patience right now with 2 toddlers to figure it out... maybe when they are older. Thanks again for doing this and posting the cutting directions. I look forward to joining in the fun.
ReplyDeleteLike you I'm a lawyer. The author of the book obviously is not. You never infringed her copyright. You did not use her photos and the instructions were your own. oh well. I have the book and it will sit on my shelf and I'll continue to sow-a-long with you.
ReplyDeleteI bought the book as well and was very disappointed by the lack of instruction. It will remain in place as a 'reading' book. So glad you changed things up and will go forward. This is fun! (as it should be!) Thank you for the chance to follow along...those of us working on tax season time, get to read and dream :-)
ReplyDeleteIn the acting community there is a saying that "any publicity is good publicity". In the quilting world, bad publicity is just bad! Others have said she shot herself in the foot, that was my initial thought also! This author's attitude sounds the same as another author of a 'very popular' sampler quilt that came out several years ago. I have heard many quilters say they will have nothing to do with that author's work. I'm sure this one will suffer the same fate!
ReplyDeleteI just learned of this sew along from Bonnie H. Where is the first block. I'll go there then catch up. Shirley
ReplyDeletesbartee@msn.com
comfortquilts.blogspot.com
Thanks for keeping your chin up, Randy! I did buy the book last summer and joined a group on yahoo.com that had foundation piecing patterns, but have tried to come up with my own cutting methodes. I'll be following your blog for your cutting instructions (and I'm sure Bonnie's favourite tools will be making an appearance - I've already used them!)
ReplyDeleteI had the book in my cart at Amazon, ready to order it and join in. Glad to know that I can sow along without having to buy the book. Sorry the author gave you grief, but it seems like she is being her own worst enemy.
ReplyDeleteI think the expression my Mother would have used in response to her action is "cutting off your nose to spite our face". Was just about to purchase the book, but now, not so much. But I am going to join in.
ReplyDeleteI have owned the book for a year and had not used it to sew any blocks. I will certainly never buy a book by this author again, no matter how intrigued I am by history and quilting, no matter how cute her formats are...
ReplyDeleteI also bought the book because of your sow along. I had never heard of the farmer's wife before that! Now I wish I hadn't bought it based on the author's attitude. How ridiculous . Hope she reads how many books you sold.....and she should send you a commission . I will still be stitching with you.
ReplyDeleteClaudia
On the road again.
Wont buy the book either...shame on her and will avoid anything this person prints in the future. If I can't figure it out, I will google a block. I wanted to purchase the darn book...not now!!
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you're doing this. These blocks don't belong to just one person. Thanks!
ReplyDelete