5 comments about One-Yard Wonders: 101 Sewing Fabric Projects; Look How Much You Can Make with Just One Yard of Fabric!.

1. I found this at the book store the other day and was impressed with all the great projects. I bought it and went home and immediately started to work on the hanging organizer, dress, and Folklore bag. I'm an experienced sewer and not a fan of patterns, but I was able to follow the bag pattern easily and made the cutest purse! I figured out the organizer without reading directions. Other reviewers stated there are patterns included that they would never use, but with 101 projects to choose from at such a great price, it is worth it to buy the book for the patterns that you will use! I don't have kids but we all know people who have kids/baby showers and it is ALWAYS somebody's birthday. I love all the great ideas, fabrics, and cute patterns.



2. This book is wonderful. It has something for everyone. With only one yard of fabric you can make any of the 101- one yard projects in this book. I have made and love: the Mailbag Pocket Duo, the Hanging Laundry Bag, the CD Pocket, the Latte Changing Pad, Toddler Art Smock and Toddler Pinafore Top..next up the origami organizer. The instructions are easy to follow and the offerings should appeal to everyone. Great thanks to the authors for coming up with the brilliant idea of a one yard book which encourages you to stash-build neat fabrics in the same way those one skein knitting books do!



3. I'm a beginner when it comes to sewing and just flipping through I'm already liking this book! The intro has definitions and basic runthrough of everything you need to know to sew the projects inside and if you haven't sewn before or are self taught like me, it's a great resource to go through to help you around the ropes. It has a lot of simple and easy projects, plenty of fun bags and kids items. There are some adult clothing pieces that seemed cute and some organization pieces that looked fun. Most of these items look to be fairly simple so a seasoned sewer might not find it very interesting, though there are a couple projects in there that seem a bit more difficult (only a few). A lot of these types of items can be found on blogs as well if you are a heavy blog reader. Even so the book is great for flipping through for ideas, the photos are clear, the book design colorful and inspiring, the fabrics ranging from pretty to modern to cutesy and fun. Comes with full size patterns and clear instrucstions, some with diagrams. I recommend this if you're a beginning/intermediate sewer and want more than a simply online tutorial for making some fun easy one yard projects.



4. I can't wait for the next one to come out. I'm hearing this summer. I have made quite a few of the projects and they look very nice. Would definitely recommend this to an intermediate sewer. A beginner may be a little confused on some of the projects but would still be able to find a few things to make in the book to improve their skills to try the harder ones.



5. Let me begin by saying that I am very new to sewing. This is my first patterns book, and I'm very glad I picked this to be my first one! It has all the basic patterns I would need to get started with sewing (clothes, handbags, aprons, home decor, baby) so now I don't have to go out and spend extra $$ on other books. When I first started looking for patterns, I was prepared to buy serveral patterns for these various projects (each pattern being $10 - $15), but this book covered all the bases! What a great value!
   
   I love the beautiful color photographs and the overall layout of the book is very organized. The spiral bound book sits nice and flat and is easy to navigate (very important when there are 101 projects!). The instructions are clear and somewhat simplified. This is great for me, personally, who is more of a 'figure it out yourself' person, so these instructions offer more than adequate information.
   
   As far as the patterns go, I already made the 'summer nightie' shirt - a babydoll style camisole. The sizing for the clothes goes up to 2x in some patterns, but mostly S-M-L. I am in the 2x range and still used the pattern, adding a few inches to each pattern piece. My shirt came out wonderful! The other patterns are things I'd actually like to make, and with the information given in the first few chapters, I feel confident that I will be able to modify them to make them more personalized (like a purse from pattern with added pleats or ruffles)
   
   Overall, I am VERY happy with my purchase, and I feel this is a great first book to have. I can see myself using these patterns over and over. Great value book.

5 comments about Sewing Clothes Kids Love: Sewing Patterns and Instructions for Boys' and Girls' Outfits.

1. I had such high hopes for this book and unfortunately, there is not one thing that I would be able to make, based upon the confusing directions, descriptions, etc. The skirt on the cover looked like something I would have enjoyed making, but I would not know where to start. You probably have to be a very experienced seamstress to make it, along with all of the other patterns in the book. Such a disappointment and waste of money



2. Be aware of the exaggerated style lines of these patterns. I expected when I purchased this book that I wouldn't like the embellishment and fabrics used in the garments but others have said that looking past that, the underlying patterns are great. Well I've now tried two, the "Dortje" pants and the "Insa" skirt, and even in simple fabrics I'm finding the styles odd. I've been sewing for my daughter for several years now and I've had such nice results that I half believed it reflected my skill. But after these two flops, I realize I've just been using good patterns. For the pants, I took the width of each leg panel in by 1/2" to better suit a slim girl, but even with that they are very wide and the bottom flare very pronounced. The waist placement is good but the waistband is a mile wide. I also really hate the pentagonal shape of the back pockets. All these proportions might look nicer on a taller girl but in the middle range 110/116, not at all flattering or current. The instructions suggested cutting elastic the width of the waist plus 1" but I ended up needing to cut at least 2" off of that--what's the point of an elastic waist if it doesn't touch the body? (The instructions also told me to leave a 1/2" wide opening for inserting the 1" wide elastic, obviously a mistake but repeated in the diagram and translated to metric, so not a simple typo.) The pants were very quick and easy to assemble and I asked my daughter if I should try them again but she requested "normal" pants instead (I guess not love at first sight). On to the "Insa." I was excited about the pattern as the overskirt has a pretty petal shaped bottom contour and the elastic sheering looked clever. With the exception of the same directions for the long waist elastic, the instructions and fit are fine. But in the finished skirt the over skirt is so puffy and odd--definitely a little much for a day at school even in simple fabrics. This might be cute as a silly skirt on a toddler but on an older girl the flare distracts from the girl more than it flatters. I'm beginning to think the over embellishment is necessary to mask the clunky shapes of the patterns and in fairness I did end up liking some of the fabric combos shown.
   
   As far as the text of the book, it really seems the author had little to say. There are random tips thrown in, but as much bad advice as good--use strips of fusible web to secure patch pockets before topstitching (why?? a couple pins have always worked for me). Resist the urge to use antique thread (sensible, but is this a common mishap?). I don't think there is nearly enough information to help someone new to sewing (although there are certainly other resources for that). I wish there was a more complete size chart included (only height/chest/waist/hips are given for the standard sizes). They explain how to measure a child in additional areas but don't tell you the corresponding dimensions the patterns were drafted for. Measuring pattern pieces will help but then you have to wrestle with design ease, if you suspect your child has narrow shoulders it would be helpful to know how she compares to the pattern maker's ideal. The philosophical bits are awkward, "Sew with the Flow" is as forced as a midnight term paper. And when it comes to technique, there is little analysis of the heavily styled garments photographed beyond "One trim is seldom enough... anywhere you add a ruffle there is room to put a line of rickrack..." Why not include at least some practical reasons for trim. I've found trim over a seam distracts the eye so that carefully matched prints aren't expected which is particularly helpful between bodice and skirts. Even if you have a pile it on approach to embellishment, there is room to discuss balance and design. I believe the examples photographed were carefully conceived but there is no insight given as to how. There is also no account of which patterns were used where and there are photos of patterns not included in the book. Sadly, there is nothing in here I'll try for my son and the discussion of boy sewing is uninspired which is too bad because it really is possible to home sew for boys, too.
   
   When it comes to the projects section, at least the writing has purpose. The instructions seem pretty good if a little wordy--more is often less with sewing instructions. And along the way new techniques are introduced in natural succession. I can accept that cutting layouts are unnecessary if you are using multiple fabrics but a simple labeled diagram of the flat pattern pieces should really be provided. This makes finding and tracing the pieces simpler and makes the instructions readable without pulling out the tissue paper. Also the cutting lists should take every opportunity to remind the reader to cut right- and left-hand versions of asymmetric pieces like pant legs, not just say cut two. This may sound petty but it's an easy to make mistake especially especially when cutting from multiple fabrics and so frustrating. On the other hand I didn't find tracing from the tissue to be as bad as others have said even with the faint dashed lines and I've already pulled the tissues out multiple times and they are holding up fine.
   
   I still have hope that one of the two dress patterns will be a winner but I'll definitely be setting this book aside for a while before I consider attempting one. For now I'm regretting my time spent with this book but I give it two starts because there are so few contemporary books devoted to childrenswear.



3. I do a great deal of sewing for my daughter. I would place my skill level at "intermediate" - zippers still scare the heck out of me, but I can read and follow a pattern with confidence. This book is very well-written and extremely inspirational. I would totally recommend this book to anyone who enjoys custom clothing creation and wants to stretch their skill level. Oh, one more thing - I totally love the design of the book. It isn't bound traditionally but has a spiral binder so it actually lies flat on your work table.



4. Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/RGNCAJ5YST09C A couple of things to note about my video review:
   
   1. I did a video review to give others a better look inside the book.
   2. Please read some of the other reviews. There are much better seamstresses than me who left very detailed comments.
   3. I did not realize that this book came with 10 patterns, until I received it. This is a tremendous value $$.
   
   Really, a great book, just short on boys inspiration. Overall this makes a great reference book. ENJOY!



5. Looking for something new and different? This book is filled with beautiful illustrations with fun innovative ideas. Step by step projects can be easily made by both the beginning seamstress and the experienced. You decide how much embellishment you want on the project. Use of color and prints are used in delightful ways that inspire your own creativity.

5 comments about The Handmade Marketplace: How to Sell Your Crafts Locally, Globally, and On-Line.

1. The Handmade Marketplace is an excellent source of information for the independent entrepreneur. Chapin touches on all the necessary information for anyone interested in starting their own handmade/craft brand from home. I am currently working on a high-school senior independent-study program where I am crafting my own brand. The Handmade Marketplace could not be a more perfect book for my project. I have read through many similar books, but this is by far my favorite. Chapin somehow makes what could seem like an overwhelming task manageable. The book also provides advice and interviews from so many successful, talented people who have made strides in the online indie world. As an added bonus, the book is pleasing to look at. The illustrations are beautiful and inspiring in themselves.



2. I own many books on getting my wares to market but had yet to get my efforts off the ground. I'd always felt that something was missing in the equation. THIS book is what was missing. Chapin finds a way to make selling your wares feel natural, easy and comfortable. I no longer feel that offering my work to the public is an overwhelming chore.
   Chapin integrates social networking, web shops, and blogging information that brings you up-to-the-minute without feeling like it is artificial self-promotion. Her ability to outline the natural progression from my studio to global exposure is amazing! Her guidance brings results that are exciting, community building, supportive, and inspiring.
   I would highly recommend this book to everyone who has had a hard time getting their sales efforts off the ground. I would also recommend this book to those who have sold in traditional outlets but have yet to find a way to get more exposure to grow.



3. Beyond being a super cute and attractive book, Kari's Handmade Marketplace will no doubt be the craft/indie business bible for at least the next 10 years. Questions about business cards? Social marketing? Selling wholesale or consignment? Using Etsy, Artfire or other online venues? It's all there, plus cute illustrations, stories told in the first person by today's most promising artists and crafters, and bits of information crammed into every nook and cranny. I get bored easily and rarely read a reference book cover to cover, but this one I did and have gone back and read parts twice. Highly recommended for those starting out in the business and to those with experience (I've been selling for over 5 years and found loads of good tips in Kari's book). This book should be on every crafters bookshelf.



4. I purchased this book initially because Emily Martin [The Black Apple] did some of the illustrations and I simply adore her and her work. But then when the book arrived, I could not put it down. I've been selling my jewelry on the internet for 6 years now and this little 210 page book would have been worth it's weight in gold to me back then. What has taken me years to figure out on my own, is within the charming little pages of this book. A MUST have for anybody making and selling art and crafts these days. I would highly recommend this book. You will not regret purchasing it, I can promise you that. The references and links themselves are worth the cost of the book. You'll love it ~ I promise! Kathy Hardy ~ Dornick Designs ~ [...]



5. Making a living as an artist is hot topic these days. Tricky at best, it is an elusive career choice but very desirable none the less. Kari Chapin's down to earth, savvy advice strips away much of the mystery, whether you are knitting hats for babies or painting images to reproduce and sell on Etsy. She has brilliant insight into a variety of ways of approaching marketing, especially helpful insights into online avenues. Some longish passages (thank you!!) by Grace Bonney (Design Sponge*) and Holly Becker (Decor8), 2 of the most popular art and design blogs online, clarify how to pitch a product. Building any sort of business is difficult. Making things and selling them may be the hardest, particularly if you are in love with what you do. Kari makes it a step by step process that might just help you succeed.

5 comments about Martha Stewart's Encyclopedia of Sewing and Fabric Crafts: Basic Techniques for Sewing, Applique, Embroidery, Quilting, Dyeing, and Printing, plus 150 Inspired Projects from A to Z.

1. This is an absolutely wonderful book. Martha Steward presents us with "Encyclopedia of Sewing and Fabric Crafts: Basic Techniques for Sewing, Applique, Embroidery, Quilting, Dyeing and Printing, plus 150 Inspired Projects From A to Z," a book jammed pack full of great ideas and projects. You'll be making a shopping list and heading out to the craft and fabric stores before the day in done.
   
   Martha Stewart shows just how easy it is to create a variety of beautiful gathers, flourishes; often seen on clothing, draperies, pillows, etc. Learn how to make beautiful curtains with designs you painted or printed on the fabric yourself.
   
   After decades of not sewing I recently bought a sewing machine. I've been inspired to only do more sewing but how to do it better and am filled with idea on how to make even a store bought dress pattern more of my own. I'm working on a lovely cloth covered bulletin board with ribbons to hold envelopes and photos in place and a few large pockets to hang by my desk to help reduce the clutter around my computer as well as brighten the space.
   
   Many projects that may have intimidated me in the past actually seem like a piece of cake now that I've seen the step by step instructions. I want to try Batik and other techniques to create a Batik like effect on fabrics used to create clothing, draperies, bedspreads, table clothes, wall hangings, you name it.
   
   This is a must have book for anyone who loves to create a living space and wardrobe that is truly theirs.



2. "The aim of all of us at Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia is to inspire and to teach."
   
   That aim has been fully realized in this ENCYCLOPEDIA OF SEWING AND FABRIC CRAFTS. The teaching focuses mostly on basics for beginning crafters -- step-by-step instructions, easy techniques, even some no-sew projects (e.g. coasters, storage boxes) and some that begin with commercially available products (e.g. totes, bibs, bed/bath/table linens). But for experienced crafters -- the book is pure inspiration.
   
   Beautifully illustrated throughout, it opens with primers on sewing, embroidery, appliqué, quilting, dye and stenciling. MSL's trademark visual glossaries of fabrics (almost tactile!), threads, notions and supplies are throughout, and an index and listing of sources are included at the end. But the bulk of the book is its 250 pages of fabric projects, some of which are crafting standards, many of which include fresh options. (**Note: perhaps half of the projects require the crafter to print a pattern/template from PDFs on a CD (included); therefore, access to a computer with a CD drive, a printer, and the free, downloadable Adobe Acrobat software are required.)
   
   I don't recall an over-the-top, un-doable project in the lot; the only sections that even approach are upholstery and window shades, yet the instructions there also seem manageable. Every project is illustrated in finished form; many also feature illustrations alongside the step-by-step instructions. I challenge anyone -- beginner, experienced, even an "armchair" crafter -- to look through this book without taking on a project :)



3. Martha Stewart's Encyclopedia of Sewing and Fabric Crafts is, as the subtitle says, basic techniques. 88 pages are devoted to technique--with lots of photographs. The rest of the book is projects.
   
   I think there is room for a lot more techniques. For instance, there is a handful of pages on quilting--even learning the basics of quilting lends itself to far more information.
   
   The advance copy has photos in black and white (saving the publishers a fortune) but it makes the book difficult to review, as b&w in this application is basically worthless.
   
   Overall, not overly impressed.



4. Let me start by saying I am reviewing a black and white copy without the CD. This is important because I have the Martha Stewar's Encyclopedia of Crafts and color is very important. Just like the magazine,the presentation is a large part of why you want the book. You really can't get the full impact without color. Without the color and CD what am I reviewing? What I can see from the black and white version. So what do you get?
   
   What you will get is a beautiful bound copy of sewing information that is readily available on her website and in many cases in her magazines. But here is the selling point, you get all in one place, in an easy to browse and use format. Everything is here - from the directions, tools to use to additional techniques and suppliers. So the second positive is you can recycle all those magazines you have laying around gathering dust because there is one project in each magazine you know you will get to one day. You can also stop searching the web for that project you remember from some show you saw long ago on cat play toys. It's all here in the book. To me, that alone might be the best reason to buy it.
   
   Let me warn you this is more a crafter's book than a sewing book. It is not for the serious sewer who want to turn out Chanel inspired garments and probably a little boring for the experienced sewer. So why should you buy it? It depends on what you are looking for. I found the Encyclopedia of Crafts a great way to plan projects with my granddaughters who loved looking the book at all the different projects. I'm planning to use the sewing book the same way. Seeing two little heads going throught a book and planning projects to do with Grandma, priceless.



5. I thought to myself "Hey it's Martha Stewart" and since I love sewing and fabric crafts I wanted to grab this book
   
   Unfortunately this would have helped more when I was a youngster.
   
   Most of the things in the book liked
   
   baby bibs
   
   pot holders
   
   curtains
   
   pin cushions
   
   handkerchiefs and quilts i can make without a pattern
   
   It does say "basic techniques for sewing, applique", etc, and this is just what it is

5 comments about Sew Liberated: 20 Stylish Projects for the Modern Sewist.

1. this is a beautifully creative sewing/craft book. amazing that it is her first book. great ideas, and her eco-values so clearly expressed through this work.



2. If you like Sew Liberated patterns, this book is a great value. It also provides lots of ideas and information re: applique. Instructions are clear and photography is lovely.



3. I have only been sewing for a year, but have been itching to try applique. . . And this book is full of applique projects! There are some ho-hum projects but there are also some really great ideas and projects in here. I'm really glad I bought this book and I'm excited to try my first project.



4. This beautiful sewing book is one that you will surely treasure and actually use! Meg McElwee is the author of the popular blog "Sew Liberated" where she sells her simple yet stylish clothing (for women and children) and accessory patterns (I love her reading pillow!) starting at $11.95 ~~ which are definitely worth the money with their ease of use, full sized patterns and clear diagrammed instructions. As a beginner sewer I have used several of her "shop" patterns without problem and they have turned out beautifully. What a steal this book is! She carries those clear detailed instructions and full sized patterns as well as helpful hints, techniques, a glossary of terms, and a resource guide into this book and you get 20 projects for almost the price of one pattern. I can't wait to make the stunning "Dapper Day Bag" and the adorable "Mother/Daughter Blossom Blouse"as well as several of the "small stitches: projects for babies and children". Happy sewing!



5. The author says that for her "Sew Liberated is a way of looking at craft that is, at once, traditional and completely modern". Certainly that is a perfect way to describe the projects that you'll find in this book.
   
   The 20 projects in this book are divided into three sections; domestic art, pampered artist and small stitches and all are relatively straightforward and easy to create. The author clearly has a fondness for appliqué and most of the projects include either turned, raw edge or reverse techniques. For those not familiar with these techniques
   have no fear because the authors step by step directions are clearly written and illustrated making them easy to follow for even a novice sewer.
   
   Projects in this book include household items such as patchwork place mats, aprons, a quilt and a pillow cover along with personal accessories that include bags, a blouse and a jersey garden skirt that features reverse appliqué. Things to sew for children include a baby's first book, an petit artiste smock and a tote bag and chefs hat and apron. You'll also find a clever clock project in this book. A working wall clock worthy of being the
   centerpiece in any room of the house.
   
   Along with the step by step directions for each project that are accompanied by full color photographs and clear and easy to understand diagrams you'll also find full sized pull out pattern sheets.
   

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.

5 comments about How to Sew a Button: And Other Nifty Things Your Grandmother Knew.

1. This book made me feel a little nostalgic. It reminded me of things that I have learned from older relatives through the years. It's great for people who didn't have a chance to know someone from the depression era that they could learn from. It's very informative and entertaining. I suggest giving it to someone young for a gift. They would learn from it and enjoy the read.



2. This is a totally worthless book! I bought three, one for myself and two for my daughter and daughter-in-law, both ladies being in their forties. I had the idea that as juvinille as the title sounds, it would for some reason have nearly lost information in it. NOPE! It's just as simple as it's title. After reading my copy, I returned the other two. I had hoped that it would have "old timey" information such as making butter, making soap, dying fabric, etc. Wrong there too. Most any housewife in their 40s already knows how to do most of the activities described in the book. The information is neither useful, interesting or entertaining.
   I recommend that you NOT buy this book.
   
   Joan M. Williams



3. In a time when it's too easy to buy things ready-made and toss things that are frayed, this book and its premise are a refreshing resource.



4. Lovely, simple advice on how to handle just about everything in your life. I was raised by my grandmother and I do know how to sew on a button but this book is so much more than that. This book covers so many different topics. Each chapter distills information that you might otherwise buy a whole book to learn. The book itself is such a bargain with all the wonderful information and the ideas have already saved myself and my family money. Thanks so much for this book! We love it!



5. The book was cheerfully written but very shallow. Not much content and a waste of money for me.

5 comments about Sewing for Dummies.

1. This book is easy to read. I sewed many years ago and needed some reminders on best practices of sewing. This book gives me exactly what I need.



2. I used to sew a lot when my children were little. At some point I was "done" with sewing and I gave away my machine saying," I'm never sewing again!" But recently the sewing urge (and the practicality of it) hit me again and I've bought a new fairly basic machine. I was intimidated, at first by all of the new "bells and whistles". This book is a perfect tool to give me the confidence to try out all the new stuff the machine can do. Without this book, I think I'd stick to a straight stitch or some very basic zig zag stitches. Now with the help of the simple step by step instructions in the book, I am game to try out all kinds of new frontiers...like sewing knit fabrics and hemstitching by machine. This book is the perfect companion to match my limited knowledge and skill level for sewing and help me try many of the variable things my new sewing machine can do.



3. Good book, covers most of what I wanted. Also bought "Teach Yourself Visually Sewing (Teach Yourself Visually)"



4. I bought this book after deciding to re-introduce myself to sewing, after having taken one introductory high school fashion class about 10 years ago. I remembered basic things like the importance of pre-shrinking fabric, and slip stitching, but a lot of things I needed to bush up on. I bought Sewing for Dummies, and I've referred to it ever since. Overall, it's a really good book, and I definitely recommend it for people who have had a bit of familiarity with sewing before, and need to brush up. I do think the book could have more detailed imaging, and go into more description about the techniques. Some things, I did find myself referring to the internet for images and examples. I do think this book is defintely worth purchasing though, especially for the price.



5. I cannot say enough great things about this book. I started sewing a month ago and had literally never touched a sewing machine. I didn't have anyone around that could show me how so I got this book to get started. I read this book front to back and was off making a quilt, burp cloths, curtains- within a few weeks with my new machine! It gives you a very basic understanding of how to get started and what you need. It simplifies sewing in a way that helps you build your confidence and gets you sewing quick and easy projects immediately. If you are looking to get started or need a refresher- I highly recommend this book.

5 comments about Built by Wendy Dresses: The Sew U Guide to Making a Girl's Best Frock.

1. I really like the book. It's very well explained.
   It's more than what I expected.



2. I have Wendy's Sew U: A Guide to Creating Your Own Wardrobe and both this book and that one are missing steps in her instructions. She leaves out complete steps on some of her projects. Important steps. I can't really understand why or how but she did. However, I did enjoy both books. There were some great tips and I really liked her patterns. And because I'm not a total beginner I can figure out where she left out steps and what to do. Even if it takes a little seam ripping or cutting out new pattern pieces. I am not "dogging" this book. So far I really like it, but her instructions are a little hard to understand and again she leaves out total steps. The dresses are great in this book, too. A few I don't like, but not everyone can like everything. I just want to let any true beginners know: this book(or any of Wendy's books) may not be the book for you.



3. Very good, well detailed but not complicated book, containing three easy to use patterns. Well worth the money.



4. I am a huge fan of Wendy Mullin. I greatly enjoyed her first book on sewing, Sew U: The Built by Wendy Guide to Making Your Own Wardrobe, and created several successful pieces from the included patterns. So when I saw that she had written a book on dresses, I immediately bought a copy.
   
   Mullin's book includes paper patterns for three dresses: the shift, the sheath and the dirndl. Mullin then demonstrates how these basic patterns can be slashed, stretched, cut and gathered to create totally different looks.
   
   She mentions this fact several times in the text but it bears repeating: THIS BOOK IS NOT FOR BEGINNERS. It assumes that the reader has a working knowledge of sewing and can do such things as insert a zipper, apply bias tape and know how to hem. Further, the included patterns do not have seem allowances. These will have to be added. So you have to remember when to have seam allowances, when to make them bigger (for hems and self-facings) and when to eliminate them altogether (for edges to be finished with bias tape). This can be a lot for someone who is just learning the difference between a straight stitch and a zigzag.
   
   I have a fair amount of sewing experience but none in pattern making. I chose the Oktoberfest-inspired frock (a modified sheath dress) and got to work. First, I made a muslin of the basic sheath pattern. Mullin covers fitting issues, mostly the bust and hips, but does not have information on more complicated adjustments. I have a swayback and square shoulders to account for. I consulted Vogue Sewing, Revised and Updated and added a back dart to fix the swayback issues. The raglan shoulders were roomy and required no adjusting. I think that a narrow shouldered person will likely have to take them in a bit.
   
   The basic muslin done, I started on the Oktober dress. The pattern separates the bodice from the skirt (it's all one piece in the basic sheath pattern) and then widens the skirt. The neckline is also widened. The first problem I noticed is that the dress calls for two fronts but the layout on the book has the front cut on the fold of the goods. I caught it but it might be confusing the a beginner. I don't like having to second guess patterns.
   
   I followed the measurements to a T. The second problem I noticed was the width of the neckline. It was sliding off my shoulders. My square shoulders. I can only imagine what would happen to a gal with narrow or even average shoulders. I decided to take in the neckline at the shoulder points, creating a puff cap sleeve.
   
   After I sewed on the skirt, things really went wrong. The picture in the book and what I wanted was a sassy little baby doll dress with a German accent. What I ended up with was what looked like a grade school uniform jumper. Dowdy is not a word that I usually associate with Built by Wendy but it is the only one that describes the result. And because of the nature of the front opening, it is not feasible to take in the bodice.
   
   I ended up whacking back the skirt and creating what turned out to be a pretty cute top. But I wanted a dress, not a blouse. Plus there is the wasted fabric to consider.
   
   Bottom Line: I love the concept of the book but the typos are distressing. The dress I attempted required so many changes to be wearable that it really was more trouble than it was worth. However, I am willing to give the benefit of the doubt and think that perhaps the style just did not suit my body type. I just don't know if I want to sew another item out of the book.



5. I will confess to having made most of my own clothes through high school. Back then it was more affordable to sew your own (not necessarily the case anymore, with cheap imported garments) and..I was hard to fit, being rather tall and lanky. Pants were inevitably short on me and unable to be altered--no hem allowance. So I was interested to see this book. Knitting has taken a strong upturn among fashionable young people, what about sewing?
   
   The book has the 3 styles of dresses, the sheath, the shift and the dirndl. You don't have to draft your own pattern, or use those strange multiple blue-line patterns from Europe that you sketch onto pattern paper, something Americans don't learn in sewing class as a rule. Instead, there are 3 full-size patterns included in the book, and step-by-step instructions, too.
   
   The book covers "why dresses?" which are now much more in style than in past years, as well as basics about alterations (inevitable), seam finishes, zippers, linings, even how to press as you go. The final chapter is on recycling or altering old dresses or even vintage and thrift-shop finds to suit your fashion ideas.
   
   Excellent if you want to start sewing your own dresses, and the three shapes will suit most figures. If you are a beginner, the fitting and seaming instructions will help; advanced sewers can use the basic patterns and launch on their own design ideas.

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!