Introduction A drive through the state of Tennessee is very colorful today because many brilliant "quilt blocks," called barn quilts are displayed on barns and other farm buildings throughout the Appalachian region. The Appalachian Barn Quilt Trail is an authentic adventure among a patchwork of blue mountains green hills, rolling farmland, lakes, meandering rivers, rocky ridges and fast moving streams. As you explore the trail, you may encounter century old farms and barns where rugged Tennessee pioneers helped forge a new nation out of wild land. This coloring book features 51 Tennessee barn quilts for your creative coloring as a way to relax and relieve stress & tension. Enjoy and be creative. Objectives of Barn Quilt Projects The purpose of the barn quilt trail project is to promote and celebrate the unique agricultural heritage and history of the Appalachian area through the visual combination of rural barns and quilt pattens. Barns are vital to the economic well being of the rural community and surrounding area. Handmade quilts provide warmth, beauty and an outlet for individual artistic expression. What is a Barn Quilt? A barn quilt is made by painting a quilt pattern on a 3/4 inch MDO plywood Square then mounting it on a barn or other outlying structure. Two coats of primer are applied to both sides of the board and edges. After the pattern is drawn out painter's (Frog) tape is applied outlining the various sections of the quilt pattern. Three coats or more of each color are applied, with each coat being allowed to dry thoroughly. After the quilt is finished, it is allowed to cure for at least two weeks before it is mounted. Making a barn quilt allows individuals and volunteer groups the opportunity to create and paint their own quilt square. The design that is chosen may represent a family pattern from a loved quilt or perhaps a new pattern meaningful to the individual creator(s). Objectives of Tennessee Barn Quilt Projects 1. To reflect the agricultural heritage of the area 2.To be visible from the road 3. To bring pride to the area 4. To promote tourism in the region Individual & Group Objectives 5. To sharpen math and drafting skills 6. To promote creativity on a personal level 7. To provide projects for 4H & FFA clubs 8. To help promote towns and cities