Oct 07
An illustrated guide to techniques and materials is the subtitle and this is exactly what this great little book provides. It is a small sized format with a protected ring binding so that it opens easily and lies flat when being used. It is full of everything you ever wanted to know about sewing, from overlocking, inserting zips and methods of dressmakings techniques to a textile directory. It is clear and easy to follow. I wish this book had been around when I was teaching Textiles Technology, it would have been a very well used resource. I think anyone with an interest in sewing, either expert or learner would be very pleased to own this book. It is one of the best 'How to' books I have come across. An excellent resource.
* Merseyside Embroiderers Guild *
Dec 07
This spiral bound book is a complete resource for sewers of all abilities, offering advice and help with all kinds of sewing projects, from simple repairs and alterations to making soft furnishings, garments and couture tailored designs. Both functional and decorative stitches are featured, created by hand, conventional sewing machine and overlocker. Instructions are easy to follow with a combination of line drawings and photography. Included is information on working with over 70 fabrics from chiffons to denim with advice on properties and handling qualities plus tips on suitable stitch applications.
* Sew Today *
Feb 08
This comprehensive resource is a brilliant guide to the huge range of stitches used in all types of sewing from dressmaking, soft furnishings and tailoring through to decorative sewing and basic repairs. Clearly laid out in a handy spiral bound format and illustrated throughout with close up colour photos, it opens with a general introduction to sewing tools and equipment. The main body of the book focuses on stitches made by hand, machine and overlocker, and each one is accompanied by step-by-step instructions, details of when it should be used, suitable fabrics, machine settings, alternative options and finishing techniques. This is followed by an application section that covers a wealth of sewing techniques including seams, hems, zips and buttonholes. The final area provides a textile directory detailing more than seventy fabrics ranging from chiffons and sheers through to leather and suede along with guidance on suitable garments/projects. This invaluable guide will prove useful to sewers of all levels of expertise and is sure to be referred to over and again.
* SEWING WORLD *
Summer 08
A very informative and comprehensive book on sewing techniques starting with a chapter on tools and equipment, with a chapter of stitches using hand, machine and overlockers. The step-by-step instructions are clear and concise and as the book is ring bound the pages stay easily open. The chapter on fabrics covers the uses of fine materials to heavy upholstery with guidance and tips on stitches, care and cleaning. Beginners would find this book most useful and if there were room on the bookshelf more experienced sewers would find themselves dipping into it.
Ann Tyzzer, Penzance
* West Country Embroiderers *
