No comments about Northern Knits: Designs Inspired by the Knitting Traditions of Scandinavia, Iceland, and the Shetland Isles.

5 comments about Alabama Studio Style: More Projects, Recipes, & Stories Celebrating Sustainable Fashion & Living.

1. I have the Alabama Stitch book, and was waiting with great anticipation for the follow-up, Alabama Studio Style. I was worried it would not be as wonderful as the first book, which was simply magical, but I was truly amazed by the new book. It offers an even greater array of project and techniques that are inspiring and visually stunning. I made several projects from the first book, and am sure I will make several from this one as well. I was most impressed by the dress patterns, as those are the pieces in the Alabama Chanin line that I find most appealing, and there are several option to make stunning variation of your own. I didn't get the feeling it was a watered-down version, which some "DIY' projects can appear to be, but an authentic version, to which you can add own individual touch. Plus, there are a bunch of recipes I can't wait to try, especially the Bloody Marys. It is definitely worth getting and exploring on your own.



2. Alabama Studio Style is a must, a must for anyone who yearns for simple beauty with a little flair, a little something extra, a little unexpected pop thrown in for good measure. While it might be nice and easy to run to the nearest big box decorating or clothing extravaganza, Natalie Chanin invites the reader to take a moment and consider what you really yearn for and how you can achieve it...artfully, simply and perhaps most importantly, authentically. Often times, that can be by your own hand. With simple tools, instructions and patterns, she instructs you in the fine art of making something, whether a simple pillow, a plate of deviled eggs, or an entire dress, the reader is encouraged to try. I encourage you to read this book with an open mind...an eye toward thoughtful, simple bliss...handcrafted...by you.



3. More than a continuation of the first Stitch book, Alabama Chanin has delved deeper into the handicrafts and taken design to a new level. Whether you use this book as a practical guide for making things or a resource for information and inspiration, it is a must have.



4. Unique, engaging, informed and informative, "Alabama Studio Style: More Projects, Recipes, & Stories Celebrating Sustainable Fashion & Living" by Natalie Chanin (founder and head designer of Alabama Chanin, a fashion/lifestyle company that promotes sustainable style and design) is a superbly illustrated, 176-page compendium of twenty clothing and home decoration projects that will enable even the novice beginner to create skirts, carves, pillows, woven chair seats, a stenciled scrap-wood table, distinctive placemats and napkins, market bags, camisole and tank dresses, canning-jar covers, and eyelet doilies, as well as palate-pleasing, gourmet quality dishes suitable for any and all party menus. Thoroughly 'user friendly', step-by-step instructions are enhanced with a profusion of color photographs and line-drawings. The result is a remarkable tour-de-force with an underlying message of re-use, re-cycle, and re-purpose that is environmentally friendly. "Alabama Studio Style" is a highly recommended addition to personal and community library reference collections and supplemental reading lists.



5. Putting Alabama on the fashion map took some doing but Natalie Chanin makes it look easy! An inspiring look into an authentic lifestyle that mixes traditional crafts with contemporary sensibility.

No comments about Toe-Up Socks for Every Body: Adventurous Lace, Cables, and Colorwork from Wendy Knits.

5 comments about The Art of Manipulating Fabric.

1. One thing I must have in any art book is visuals. The visuals should tell me most of what I need to know and the text should seal the deal. I'm an artist myself and I cannot understand why there are art books which seem to think last and least about the visuals which go into art books. I am not saying this is a bad book. If you feel like reading a lot of text and studying all white pictures demonstrating intricate sewing, this will do the job. Personally, this didn't do much for me. I have spent years painting and manipulating fabric but in a much freer style.



2. I am sop very sorry I waited so long to pick this up. It looked dull from the picture. Recently, I was whipping up some Canadian smocking (ha - I don't whip up smocking:) I struggle the web searching for directions!)for a gown I designed, and the next evening, this was recommended to me by amazon. I broke down, and let me say I wish I bought it years ago! It is instantly inspirational for me. I visualized 10 different new designs the first browse through. And the challenge of doing some of these - I find it a relaxing as knitting. That zen-like state where you need to relax and do it for it to come out right. It is beautifully done. The reason it looks drab is because Colette Wolfe has taken thousands of yards of unbleached muslin and worked them into intricate design pieces usable for fashion, home dec or art. Awe inspiring and lit a fire under me. This isn't your basic pleating and piping book. It is the highest you can go up the ladder of fabric manipulation without the aid of beads, feathers, bells or whistles. When you see the plain muslin stand up all on its own as a work of art, you'll understand my excitement. Only criticism is when is volume II coming out? I know there is more to come!



3. Incredible sewing ideas and execution. Would recommend to any person who can thread a needle. Now no material in my home is safe from being cut, pleated, folded, puffed, etc. Addictive.



4. All the techniques I've been wanting to learn all in one complete source. This book is awsome. I have read the other reviews and the negitive ones I have to strongly disagree with. I don't care that the pictures aren't in color or the lack of understanding is blamed on the book and not the person's own lack of ability. If you can hold a needle and thread you can use these techniques. If it's difficult to understand then please choose a different hobby. To me it's as easy as ready a McCalls pattern.



5. Who knew there were this many possibilities? This book gave me so many design ideas I'll never be able to sew them all!

5 comments about Design-It-Yourself Clothes: Patternmaking Simplified.

1. I REALLY wanted to like this book. It came so highly recommended by so many bloggers and friends. But it has left me disappointed. I guess the directions are easy enough to understand. But to a visual person, such as myself, I would really like at least some pencil drawing steps in the sewing of the garment - not just words. Secondly, the clothes are boooooring. Seriously, do I need to sew my own t-shirts??!? sorry, but I can get those for $6.99 at Target. I would like to have seen some more interesting ideas that inspire me.
   
   In one of the other reviews (that gave me hope when I ordered the book) that the clothes on the cover are not indicative of the style of all the patterns in the book. Nope, sorry. Those are actually the cuter pieces.
   
   So, if you want really basic style starter pieces in your wardrobe, go ahead and get this book. If you are trying to find something a bit more creative....skip this one. Just so you know that I'm not a total Debbie-Downer, check out "Sew What Skirts" by Francesca Denhartog - that's a great, fun sewingSew What! Skirts: 16 Simple Styles You Can Make with Fabulous Fabrics book!



2. I bought this book because of the reviews. I am a little disappointed. One reviewer stated that the patterns in the book were created for women with "stick figures". Her other comment was that these patterns were not for "real women". Though these phrases are unfortunate and hurtful to some, I do understand what she meant. If your body is in the least matronly, these patterns will not work for you. While it is true that they are based on your measurements, that is not the whole picture. Cal is very talented and that does come through in the book, but most of us matronly gals need patterns that are finely tuned to our own bodies. A pattern that has the back of the garment cut from the front pattern will just not work for us. Usually our fronts are much bigger than our backs. Another thing that Cal does not take into consideration is bust point location. (Hence, no darts). Possibly one can add the bust point location themselves, but in Cal's patterns, it wouldn't make any difference.
   I suppose we of this figure type will have to rely on Kathleen Cheethams' patterns (Petite Plus) and add lenth if we need it, or go to one of the more in depth tutorials on patternmaking.
   I gave the book 4 stars because there is a wealth of information here on pattern variation that would work for anyone. Once you have a pattern that fits, there are so many things that can be done with it to construct other garments. So, though the patterns themselves won't work for me, the book is a keeper.



3. Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R14K60Q86AXBXA I bought this book for two reasons:
   1. I was tired of store bought patterns not keeping up with fashion trends.
   2. I wanted to learn pattern making for a better fit.
   
   This book goes into good detail without getting too technical and overwhelming. The book is organized into 3 parts with an additional section on Making Patterns from Existing Clothes.
   
   An interesting fact about the author:
   Cal Patch was a clothing designer for Urban Outfitters and Free People before creating her own label.
   
   **I did a video review so others could get a better peak of "what's inside the book"**



4. I am very excited about this book. I love Cal Patch and her wonderful blog, Hodge Podge Farm.



5. This book is amazing. Full of information on not only creating patterns but on how to measure yourself. I've been using this book for reference on other patterns that I want to sew bigger or smaller for different people. I totally recommend it for those that are looking to learn how to move beyond store bought patterns.

5 comments about Couture Sewing Techniques.

1. The pictures if the Haute Couture garments in the book are good. They are wonderful examples of vintage couture, which is what you want to look at when studying Haute Couture. Don't buy this book of you want sewing instruction. The Art of Couture Sewing By Zoya Nudelman is much better if you want to learn Couture sewing not just look at it.



2. Thoroughly researched, insightful and well written, this thoughtful and informative book presents the topic of fashion creation for women as a serious subject. It provides a history of the couture industry as it developed beginning in 1850 through today, an overview of the significant changes in fashion during that period and the relationship to historical events.
   
   This book also provides and well illustrates the fitting and sewing techniques which created this fashion. Both common and obscure techniques inspire the reader to try this at home. Anyone who sews or appreciates fashion will enjoy and learn from this wonderful book.



3. This book has been one of the best purchases I've ever made regarding sewing techniques. Good descriptions of hand sewing techniques acompanied by ilucidating drawings.



4. I have enjoyed sewing for years, but when I committed to making my daughters wedding dress, I knew that I had to step up my skills. This book has been a wonderful reference to get those special details into the design. It is easy to read with lots of examples of sewing techniques and construction information. I have also enjoyed learning about the process involved with couture construction. The book has helped to boost my confidence.
   
   When I first looked at the book I was struck by how outdated the reference fashion photos were, but realized it was not a problem because the techniques were still current, so I quickly got past that. I love this book.



5. A beautiful book that provides an overview of the (seemingly rapidly dying) field of Haute Couture and illuminates how this term has been cheapened. Although the book does have diagrams, I think that only advanced sewers will be able to use the book as a How To guide. In addition, most advanced sewers would probably still do best by using this book as part of a couture class.
   
   I agree that more step-by-step instructions would be helpful, as well as a spiral binding. It also should be supplemented with more interesting clothing illustrations, although the current ones are very impressive from the point of view of technique.

5 comments about Socks from the Toe Up: Essential Techniques and Patterns from Wendy Knits.

1. Wow -- Wendy Knits has designed a number of beautiful sock patterns sold individually for $6-$8, so the price for this book containing many designs is quite a bargain! With a variety of yarn weights and techniques displayed, this compact volume is quite the treasure trove of lovely patterns. Additionally, the high-quality photography and clean layouts let it serve double duty as eye candy.



2. Alot of great things were already said about this book but I wanted to add when I got stuck at one point I emailed the author and she responded within a couple of hours. How great is that.



3. Finally a book written by a real knitter. This lady gives easy to read and understand patterns for delightful looking socks. Her cast on instructions are plain and simple.This is a book for beginners and experienced knitters alike. Great photography makes the patterns irresistible.



4. This book is perfect for the person who already knows a few basic techniques for toe-up sock knitting & wants some basic patterns to get started on using the toe-up techniques. If you want good photos of the toe-up techniques & worksheets to plug in the number of stitches for that technique, I would recommend Toe-Up! Patterns and Worksheets to Whip Your Sock Knitting Into Shape. Between these two books, you will have everything you need to become a great toe-up sock knitter.
   
   Just be prepared that most of these sock patterns require a solid or semi-solid colored sock yarn to show off the stitch patterns. There are a few that you can use the very popular self-striping or variegated yarn if you don't mind that the pattern doesn't show up so well. If you are more advanced & confident in your sock knitting, you may want to try Knitting Socks with Handpainted Yarn. Beware that this book is not a toe-up or beginner book. I just ordered it, so I do not know how many patterns that you would have to convert to toe-up.
   
   If you are looking for more advanced patterns, Wendy Johnson has a new sock knitting book coming out soon. I just pre-ordered it. The book is Toe-Up Socks for Every Body: Adventurous Lace, Cables, and Colorwork from Wendy Knits. I can't wait to challenge myself with these more complicated patterns!
   
   In conclusion, the variety of good, basic, easy to knit patterns makes it impossible for me to choose a favorite. There are so many I can't wait to knit! The photos of the socks & their stitch patterns are amazing. You can see exactly what the patterns are supposed to look like. This book is definitely a great addiction to your sock knitting library as are any of the other books I mentioned.



5. I had passed on getting this book in the last few months, mostly because I was buying yarn rather than books. But I wished that I had gotten this much sooner! It's delightful! The pictures are plentiful and lovely. The descriptions are perfectly put together. The instructions are well written, step by step and easy to follow.
   
   Wendy discusses various needle options: dpns, magic loop, & 2 circulars. Plus she breaks down multiple cast on and bind off techniques and reviews different types of heel constructions. The cherry on top of the sundae is her lovely selection of patterns. She offers patterns for so many wonderful lace patterns (I even think some could be adapted for gloves & fingerless mitts). There really is something for everyone. One of the best books I've come across lately.

5 comments about It's a Wrap: Sewing Fabric Purses, Baskets, And Bowls.

1. It's exactly what I needed to get started and I received it in good condition and in a short amount of time!!!



2. I'd bought this book because of reviews I'd read on the sewing forums. It was more difficult than I thought to find the cotton clothesline than I expected, but once I found some, I haven't stopped. It's really addictive - wrapping scrap fabric around the clothesline, then sewing the coil to form baskets of differing shapes. The book is well-written, with lots of illustrations, to make it easy for sewers. Even beginning sewists can be successful - essentially you only need to be able zig-zag to construct your baskets. These baskets make really neat gifts as well - much better than "Amish Friendship Bread"!



3. This is a beautiful book with lots of color pictures of many samples to give you many ideas. The diagrams are clear and the text is well written. Two of our local quilting groups are having fun making these. Now if Accuquilt GO would only make a cutting tool for the 3/4" strips, this would be a fairly fast technique.



4. Caution!! this craft is very addictive, I've made more baskets,purses & bowls than even a crowd could use. There is no end to the color combo's and shapes you can make with this craft. The great part is when you start something you actually finish it!! I just love the art & will continue with it till the neighborhood asks me to move.



5. Great product. I use it in teaching my fabric classes. Well written with easy to follow
   instructions.

5 comments about Getting Started Knitting Socks (Getting Started series).

1. What a magical moment! I spent a couple of hours working on my very first sock last night! I thought the photos were very very helpful and the explanation very clear. I am so proud of myself for persevering, I am going to get lots of different sock yarns now and make socks for the whole family!! This is a brilliant skill to learn! :) I would like to thank the author for sharing all her tips with us!



2. Arrived quickly. Purchased for daughter who had researched books on knitting socks for beginners, and felt this one would be the best among them. We'll have to wait a while to see if any socks come forth!



3. This book not only gives you patterns, but it thoroughly explains how to fit a sock to your foot. Very understandable, easy to read but very informative.



4. I bought this book thinking it came with magic...it didn't. I expected step-by-step easy directions for basic socks, what I got was how to do a gauge swatch followed by a couple of patterns that one might very well find for free online. It just wasn't happening for me. Im sure I'll pick this book up years from now and love the patterns, but right now, I find the book to be personally useless. I should mention that I'm a visual learner (via youtube and such) and I dont always swear an oath to swatches. Someone who relies entirely on swatches and reading material to learn how to knit would probably get a lot out of this book. Just so you know, this book does not include courage, patience, or magic powder that keeps your DPNs from sliding. It does, however, have lovely pictures.



5. I love this book. I am a new knitter and thought socks were going to be impossible. Not with this book. I like that she gives you basic yarn weights instead of specific yarns. You can't always find those "specialty" yarns that most patterns tell you to use. I have made at least 20 pairs of socks and slippers since I got this book....highly recommended to new knitters.

5 comments about The Fashion Designer Survival Guide, Revised and Expanded Edition: Start and Run Your Own Fashion Business.

1. not finished reading but so far it is an informative read but it could give more ideas and tips.



2. Extremely disappointed with this book. Rather than focusing on the struggles, adversities, drawbacks, and the unhappiness of being a designer, I'd rather invest my time in a text which offers concrete instruction on how to overcome the obstacles. This book is premised upon the "facts" that you: a) require hundreds of thousands of dollars in reserve to even consider launching your own line, b) MUST work for several years under another designer prior to designing for your self, and c) you most likely won't make it, even on a small scale. Every artist is aware of monetary limitations and minuscule success rates, so I believe most of us would benefit more from tangible advice, and an author who can offer various routes to achieve discernible goals (rather than abstract ideas and incessant "words of warning"). A few good points throughout the book, but I wouldn't recommend it.



3. This is an excellent book to have if you are serious to get started into fashion.



4. I will admit-- I chose this "how to start a fashion business" guide book over the other ones because it's more famous. And because of the Diane Von Furstenberg foreword, Tim Gunn review, and many little interviews with actual designers. Lets not forget the great price (w/ free shipping if $25 is spent).
   
   This book is definitely a good read-- its full of practical information and great advice and real-world examples of situations designers go through (designers going bankrupt, exclusivity of certain production factories, problems with selling to certain stores, etc). Its a very "real" look at fashion from a well thought out point of view.
   
   All that said, when I began to create my business plan this book was little help. I mean it certainly gave me a great summarized outline, but it lacks numbers. I just wish it had more number examples, you know more "averages". Like the average or sample amounts of material cost, production, and overhead cost for an emerging designers. How many pieces are recommended for a new designer and if they choose to sell to a store-- whats the average amount of pieces they sell the store and how many of each sizes (ie: 20 dresses? size 2(2) size 4(2) size 6(4) size 8(4) size 10(4) size 12(4))
   
   I know averages can greatly differ, but I wish they would have made-up or created a fake fashion line, and created a very modified business plan with numbers, just as a sample. (That alone would have made this book perfect.)
   
   It also needed more equations. The only equation was COGS. The book was great, but it seriously lacked numbers and tangibility. As in I was thinking this book would be a onestop shop, but it wasn't. This book gives you direction and an idea of how your mindset should be when creating a line and it gives you alot of pointers and warnings. Making this the perfect book for someone who isn't in the fashion industry. But as a person who's been to business school and studied at a fashion school I just expected a little more, I'm probably asking for too much, but what the hey- why not? lol.
   
   I look at this book as a great complementary to a more detailed book. I haven't read these, but from what I can see in Amazon's "look inside" and from some of the reviews: "Fashion Unraveled", "Fashion for Profit", and "How to Setup and Run a Fashion Label" may be great compliments to this book. For my fashion marketing class I had to read "The Business of Fashion, Designing, Manufacturing and Marketing". That's a textbook and does offer great detail as well, but it comes at a much bigger pricetag. I just wish I kept it instead of giving it back after my class was over.
   
   As a person in the industry I'll say that this book definitely solidified alot of my own thoughts and gave me many great tidbits that will be helpful and will come to mind as I'm creating my line. Just don't expect "numbers" and financial examples from this book. Just view it as a insiders guide to the business of fashion with accompanying examples and summaries of the experiences of other designers. Because of the low pricetag and solid examples I would definitely recommend purchasing it, but keep in mind that you will still need to find books and search the internet for number and business plan examples. (And, lets just say with all the junk out there its hard to find everything on the internet it takes soooooo much time digging through sites and sites and fake sites that lead you to sites that want you to pay hundreds just for a numerical overview of the women's retail market... oops sorry, I think I'm venting now, lol).
   
   This book is great, I recommend buying it. But I suggest Mary Gehlhar make a revised version in a year or two that has numbers because if she did it would be like the Bible for starting a fashion line.
   
   PS- This book really is like a wake-up call for people who just say to themselves "I want to start a clothing line", you know, people who aren't in the industry and just think it'll be this fun easy thing to do. It gives those type people ALOT of perspective. For someone who already has an idea for a line, is well-versed in fashion, and aware of the climate of the retail industry and fashion market this book has its shortcomings. But it is still helpful though, so thats why it's a useful book to have around.



5. It combines business and pleasure; a perfect formula.
   From fabric to planning your business.
   And from design to a practical use of fabric.
   Great book.
   Useful and extremely practical.
   Get a copy....