When the doorbell rang, I honestly thought it was just another Amazon box. Nope. This one was a plain brown parcel from Australia — and spoiler alert: it was about to make my whole week. I sliced through the paper and immediately caught a whiff of coconut. Intrigued, I pulled out a tiny packet of Coconut Biscuits. Beneath it? Gathered by Jen Kingwell. That combo alone tells you everything you need to know — quilts, kitchen, memories, and the delightful chaos of things collected and cherished over a lifetime.

This is my honest book review of Gathered by Jen Kingwell. Spoiler: it's not a color theory lecture. Instead, it's Jen cracking open her personal vault — a glorious treasure trove of vintage quilts and ephemera she's been hoarding (in the best way) for years. The projects range from full-blown heirloom quilts to adorable smaller makes like pillows and table runners, all inspired by that vintage goodness. And true to the title, Gathered also serves up treasured family recipes — the kind passed down from Jen's mum, relatives, and friends. Loved, tested, and now generously shared with you. Because apparently quilting and baking are a package deal now. (I'm not mad about it.)

In this review, I'll walk you through what's actually inside, how the vintage vibes translate into projects that won't eat your entire year, and what you need to know about techniques and skill levels — including when handwork is non-negotiable and where machine-only makers can (maybe) sneak by.

Inside the Book

Gathered is exactly what it sounds like: Jen's personal treasure chest of vintage quilts, quirky motifs, and family recipes she's been collecting for years. The book bounces between full-size quilts (for when you're feeling ambitious) and smaller projects like pillows and runners (for when your ambition is more "nap-sized"). Every page whispers stories — classic blocks with a twist, palettes that look like they've lived a little, and finishes that say "loved" instead of "precious."

Here's the plot twist: about a third of this book is recipes. Yep, actual food. Savory, spicy, sweet — all passed down from Jen's mum, relatives, and friends. It's quilting meets hospitality: stitch a block, bake a batch, call it a day. Honestly? Kind of genius.

Project Range — From heirloom quilts to quick wins

Think of it as a choose-your-own-adventure, but with fewer dragons and more fabric.

Full quilts that honor the vintage vibe without making you feel like you're cosplaying the 1930s
Smaller projects (pillows, runners, cute little panels) for when your attention span is running on fumes but you still want to make something gorgeous
Materials lists and layout guidance that actually make sense — because Jen's got your back, and she's not about to let you wander off into the quilting wilderness alone

Techniques & Approach — Handwork is the whole vibe

Here's the thing: Jen designs for handwork. Period. Hand piecing, appliqué, curves that curve — it's all meant to be stitched slowly, with intention (and possibly a cup of tea). This isn't a race; it's a rhythm. And just so we're clear: the book doesn't teach you how to hand piece or appliqué. Jen assumes you already know your way around a needle. If curves, Y-seams, or intermittent seams make you nervous, do yourself a favor and queue up Jen Kingwell’s two courses on hand piecing and appliqué — both explain the core techniques clearly — you’ll find them here: Jen Kingwell Designs — Courses before you dive in. Optional: a concise overview in this YouTube tutorial.

Machine people, I see you — and yes, you can adapt many of these projects. But let's be honest: some things (looking at you, curves and Y-seams) really do sing when stitched by hand. If you're determined to machine it, bring your A-game and your patience. You've been warned. 😏

Design Language — Vintage source, modern eye

Rather than lecturing you on color theory (yawn), the design decisions here flow straight from Jen's archive: found motifs, time‑washed contrasts, and a relaxed elegance that feels like it's been loved for decades. Low‑volume and texture still show up to the party, but they're playing supporting roles — not hogging the spotlight.

What I'd Make First

I'm going straight for the STOOP pillow — because honestly, it's like Jen read my mind and designed it just for me. Vintage charm meets clean-lined modern? Yes, please. It's the kind of project that whispers "afternoon delight" (the stitching kind, people) and finishes before your tea goes cold.

For my fabric pull, I'm keeping it very me: a serene low-volume background from my Even More Paper line, because calm is always the right answer. Then I'll layer in those appliquéd shapes — they've got this almost-quarter-Log-Cabin vibe that makes my heart skip — using a curated stack from my Spotted collection. Think moody, sophisticated, a little mysterious. Like a really good noir film, but in fabric form.

Hand piecing keeps every join crisp and the whole experience deliciously meditative. (Machine-only makers, you can absolutely adapt this, but trust me: the slow stitch is where the magic lives.) I'll finish it with a bit of quilting lines which give it, "I-know-what-I'm-doing" look. A little vintage, a little atelier, a whole lot of Zen Chic swagger.

Who This Book Is For

Vintage‑curious quilters who want projects that feel collected, not contrived
Handwork lovers who enjoy applique and hand piecing
Makers with varied time windows who appreciate both comprehensive quilts and smaller finishes
Intermediate sewists comfortable with curves, Y‑seams, and intermittent seams

Verdict

Gathered is an invitation into Jen’s archive and kitchen — a book you’ll reach for when you want work with history in it. If you collect ideas as much as fabrics, this will feel like home. The recipes are a warm bonus and make the making feel communal.