Compassionate Quilting

A history of quilting’s visual, social, and political role in America’s quest for social justice, interspersed with projects for beginners.

Part manual, part history, Compassionate Quilting explains why vulnerable populations have been quilting one-of-a-kind heirlooms for centuries while offering tips and patterns for beginners to do so themselves.

From acclaimed author Susan Gubar, Compassionate Quilting addresses quilting’s role in America’s quest for social justice, exploring the quilt’s literary, political and visual centrality in the struggle for diversity, equity, and inclusion. Interspersed projects assist beginners who want to start experimenting with an infinitely variable artform. Projects include:

• A Whole-Cloth Quilt
• Stacked Coins/Four- and Nine-Patches
• Log Cabin/Housetop Blocks
• Attic Windows
• Binding

Gubar also explores topics like stitchery in literature, the political history of patchwork, the role quilt-making plays in grief, gender equality, and more. Like many other artisans and artists, quilters have illuminated the noblest aspiration of our cherished country—its commitment to liberty and justice for all—and they do so today in traditions created primarily by women.

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs