Turn your favorite fabrics into a fashion statement! From chic wristlets to functional carryalls (and everything in between), each project includes a full-sized pattern, easy-to-follow instructions, and inspirational photos. All the sewing basics you need are here, and you will learn some more ambitious techniques such as stitching hook-and-loop tapes, making darts and pleats, and attaching magnetic snaps or zippers.
Mar 12
Just because a girl can never have too many handbags - this book is fab. Subtitled Clutches, hobos, satchels and more, you'll be sure to find several patterns to satisfy your handbag hunger. Chapters are split into small bags, clutches and large bags. There are 19 pattens in all from pencil cases and sunglasses cases to carryalls. Great clear instructions and good quality photos make this book a breeze to use. The pattens are split into skill levels, so this book is for all kinds of stitchers from beginner up. I love the 'Betty wallet' and the 'Veronica day bag' as well as the 'Sweet Annemarie bag.' Stylish and contemporary, this book has something for everyone. Patterns are included.
* Karen Platt Yarnsandfabrics.co.uk/crafts *Apr 12
We've reviewed a number of top-notch books on bagmaking in the past few monts, and this one, by Sue Kim, is right up there with hte best of them The two features that we think make it outstanding are the range of patterns and the quality of the instructions. Let's begin with the instructions: each and every detailed step in the making of each bag is illustrated with a clear photograph. This is a real boon for visual learners and makes this book an excellent choice for someone who is still biuilding their bagmaking confidence and skills. You have a photograph right in front of you so you can tell immediately if you've understood what's required and are doing it correctly. The other thing that we felt distinguished this book was the number and stylishness of the projects. There are detailed instructuions and patterns for 19 bags, from a case for sunglasses and a small zippered wristlet through to clutch bags, hobo bags, totes and backpack-like bags. Full-size patterns are provided for each project on tear-out pattern sheets inside the back cover.
* Australian Homespun *Sue Kim has been designing sought-after creative sewing patterns for many years. She lives in Manitoba, Canada, with her three lovely children and husband. Sue shares her patterns and creativity on her popular website, ithinksew.com. She started sewing when she was ten years old and has always had a passion for crafts. She earned a master's degree in ancient Asian theater. However, she kept sewing and designing as a hobby until, luckily, she was asked to be a sewing instructor at a Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft store. That expanded into requests to teach in several quilt shops. The quilt shop owners also encouraged her to start her own pattern business.
Her first patterns were for small bags and clutches, and eventually she was asked to make a pattern book of bags and clutches. Many of the patterns Sue sells are downloadable PDF patterns. She has completed several books of patterns and has become an independent pattern designer, writing for several publishers and pattern companies.
Sue has countless ideas; her sketchbook is never empty.