Working with medium- to large-scale prints, quilters can create dynamic pieced blocks without hours of planning and precision cutting. The kaleidoscope effects occur spontaneously, thanks to the ingeniously simple 'Stack-n-Whack'(R) cutting technique. By stacking identical repeats of fabric, quilters can efficiently cut the pieces needed for all the blocks. Each block will be unique and unexpected, keeping the quilting experience fresh and exciting! With over 200 how-to illustrations and dozens of color plates. Designs include the classic LeMoyne Star, Hybrid Lilies, Kaleidoscope Pinwheel, Hexagon Star, Diamond Ring, Morning Star, and others, all pieced with construction methods that eliminate set-in seams and ensure quick, successful results. Kaleidoscope quilts are one of the show-off pieces of a quilter's repertoire. They're judged not only on how perfectly the pieces are sewn to a point in the middle, but also on the cutting: if each piece isn't cut from exactly the same part of the pattern on the fabric, the effect is spoiled. The traditional way of making kaleidoscope blocks involves a special window template, much exaggerated care in cutting--and too often, much wasted fabric. Reynolds's revolutionary method of measuring and marking pattern repeats on the fabric, then cutting all the pieces for the kaleidoscope at once, is more precise, much less time consuming and wasteful, and keeps quilters from being slaves to the cutting process. Reynolds leads the reader smoothly through the process for half-square triangles, 45- and 60-degree triangles, and 45- and 60-degree diamonds. Magic Stack-n-Whack Quilts is an essential addition to the library of any quilter who's interested in the endless design possibilities in kaleidoscopes, stars, pinwheels, and hexagons. --Barrie Trinkle Whether you are looking for a way to create a dazzling quilt in a few days or whether you are simply a quilter who loves to play with fabric, I am confident you will love making [these] quilts. -Planet Patchwork In an old Persian fairy tale, the Three Princes of Serendip make delightful discoveries by chance. From this story comes the term "serendipity" the gift of finding valuable or agreeable things by accident. This is an apt description for these designs, for quilters can watch wonderfully intricate quilts appear with an ease that is nearly magical, by simply letting the fabric do the work. To create your own Magic Stack-n-Whack quilt, you won't need to use mirrors or trace countless pieces with window templates. Basic rotary cutting equipment and a great print are the key ingredients. Cutting the fabric for the blocks takes remarkably little time, and then the real fun begins as you start to sew. As each unique and unexpected block emerges, the excitement grows. Like a good mystery novel, you may find it hard to put down, plan to order take-out, and stock up on midnight oil! Bethany S. Reynolds shares her Stack-n-Whack(R) method, designs, and quilt making tricks with quilters across the U.S., as well as in Australia, England and France. Introduction Kaleidoscope-effect quilts, in which a symmetrical design radiates from the center of the block, draw the admiration and envy of many quilters. Just as hand-held kaleidoscopes fascinate children of all ages, the intricacy, order, and mysterious changeability of these creations attract us, but these quilt designs traditionally require much careful planning and cutting. Weeks can go by before the first seam gets sewn! While some quilters relish this part of the project, for others, it can be a tedious ordeal, an intimidating obstacle, or simply a "turn-off". The designs in this book allow you to create exciting effects with fabric quickly and easily. The Stack-n-Whack method does not involve mirrors or window templates, and it works with a wide variety of fabrics, not just border stripes or symmetrical prints. The method used to create these designs involves layering and cutting fabric repeats with standard rotary cutting equipment. The resulting blocks are all unique. The exciting patterns happen spontaneously, without extensive planning or precision cutting. The experience is similar to making a mystery quilt. There is an element of faith and a certain risk involved that add to the fun, making the process as appealing as the finished product. Chapters One and Two contain information you will need to know for all the projects, including the stacking method that produces the kaleidoscope effects. Even if you're in a hurry to get started, please read Chapter Two before you begin whacking! Chapters Three through Seven contain projects. Each chapter describes the Stack-n-Whack method for a particular shape, such as a 45 diamond, along with yardage requirements, piecing directions, and assembly instructions for designs based on that shape. Chapter Eight contains suggestions for quilting and finishing your project. Whether you are looking for a way to create a dazzling quilt in