Sewing Books

Book SynopsisZero Waste Patterns offers a modern approach to sustainable sewing. Using natural fabrics and core sewing techniques, learn how to stitch without waste and make a scandi-style collection of 20 garments. Zero waste pattern cutting is a bit like a puzzle. You use a pre-determined length of fabric end to end by strategically planning your pattern pieces so that everything is used and then draw them onto the fabric. By using this unique "paperless" method you can eliminate both textile and paper waste from your sewing projects and take the fear out of learning to self draft and sew your own clothing. This book includes 5 simple zero waste pattern blocks—a t-shirt, skirt, tank top, shirt, and trousers. These can then be used to make a further 15 projects by making simple changes or mixing and matching your blocks into new designs, and comes with pattern layout instructions and templates to make sizes UK 6-30/US 2-26. Once you have mastered the 5 blocks the possibilities are endless.

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Book SynopsisBoston-type bags, backpacks, pochettes, drawstrings and pouches in 35 different designs. With the full-size sewing patterns you can easily sew your costomized bags following the detailed instructions.

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Book SynopsisTake a fitting masterclass from the team behind The Great British Sewing Bee. From adjusting patterns to altering ready-made garments, learn how to personalise your makes to suit your style with this go-to guide. Starting with the basics, learn how to measure yourself and grade between sizes before moving onto pattern adjustments including darts, bust, bum, back, bicep and mobility adjustments. Discover the art of preparing and fitting a toile to create a custom fit for your body, with expert tips from the world of couture and costume making. Featuring a section with advice on altering clothes you already own, you'll also be able to inject a new lease of life into ready-made garments that don't fit quite right. This book is an indispensable reference for skilled sewers that will show you how to get a perfect fit to create that professional finish.

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Book SynopsisEnter the colourful world of contemporary patchwork Dive into contemporary patchwork with fresh surface design techniques and beautiful projects from Arounna Khounnoraj, co-owner of Bookhou and well-known textile artist. Arounna's approach to patchwork, quilting, and appliqué stands out from traditional methods, making this book an incredible resource for building a foundation in textile design and expanding into unique improvisational patchwork. Get inspired by your environment and learn elements of colour theory before jumping into several fabric surface design techniques. Then, master the art of decorating with stitches as you explore various sewing and appliqué techniques to make your patchwork projects pop.

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Book SynopsisTransform your top drawer with DIY, size-inclusive lingerie, swimwear, and activewear. Sew Lingerie! celebrates body positivity by teaching makers to create undergarments that shape and support their unique bodies.

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Book SynopsisHow to Embroider Almost Every Cute Thing includes 550 supercute, sweet, and little embroidery motifs for just about everything you could ever want to depict with needle and thread.From cheeseburgers and chihuahuas to earmuffs and exercise equipment, among the many charming motifs are flowers, food, animals, clothing, vehicles, sports and hobbies, letters, numbers, and decorative designs from Japan’s leading embroidery artists. Use the motifs to embellish t-shirts, socks, bags, table linens, and more!What you’ll find inside: Finished stitched examples, stitch guides, and templates for all the motifs Essential step-by-step tutorials for key stitches and techniques Bursting with fun little embroidery motifs, this book will give you the itch to stitch!Table of ContentsContents Assorted Patterns Simple Flowers Folk Art Flowers Fairytale Flowers Breakfast Foods Fruits & Vegetables Favorite Foods Sweets & Treats Zodiac Animals Dogs & Cats Favorite Animals Animal Friends Fairytale Animals Everyday Life Sports & Games Hobbies & Activities Border Designs Flower Alphabets Food Alphabets Letters & Numbers Childhood Favorites People & Things Inspiration Gallery Tools & Materials Getting Started Basic Stitches Embroidery Artist Profiles

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Book SynopsisThe Essential Guide to Pattern Making is an extensive and clear guide for all who wish to become confident in designing and making their own patterns. This handy book will become any dress-maker's pattern-designing bible: with accessible break-downs on seams and darts, the order of make for any garment, how to consider your measurements from scratch, and developing your patterns with the inclusion of pockets, pleats, cuffs, and fastenings. This comprehensive guide features lots of tips, and is 'bursting at the seams' with coloured illustrations to help lead you through. Written by designer Andrew Richards, a previous designer for Valentino, and Jo Barnfield: an experienced Pattern Cutter and Technical Illustrator who has worked under the likes of Jasmine Di Milo, and has worked as a university lecturer in Fashion for years - most currently at the University of the West England. This guide will make pattern-making less scary, boosting the confidence of any designer. Learn to be an intuitive pattern-maker with a depth of understanding in constructing coats, jackets, blazers, dresses, trousers - the works!Table of ContentsIntroduction THE BASICS Chapter 1: Tools, Supplies, and Equipment Chapter 2: Fundamentals of a Garment Chapter 3: Fabric Considerations DRAFTING TECHNIQUES Chapter 4: Designing Patterns from Scratch Chapter 5: Fitting Principles and Pattern Adjustments Chapter 6: Rub-off Pattern Drafting PATTERN DEVELOPMENT Chapter 7: Volume and Suppression Chapter 8: Sleeves Chapter 9: Collars Chapter 10: Waistbands and Cuffs Chapter 11: Openings and Fastenings Chapter 12: Finishings, Linings, and Facings Chapter 13: Pockets THE DESIGN MAKER Chapter 14: Going Pro Glossary Resources Index

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Book SynopsisA complete course in machine-sewing for children aged 7+ years Sewing is a skill that has so many benefits for children and can give them real pride in their achievements. Angela Pressley has been teaching children to sew for 15 years, and knows how to encourage and inspire them to learn, starting with the basics and building up a portfolio of skills. And to keep them interested, she has designed 30 makes that will help them cement the knowledge they've gained, from sewing simple seams to patchwork, curves and corners, hems, linings and so much more. The book starts with an introduction to the sewing machine and some of the basic skills and equipment needed to sew. Then there are four chapters, each beginning with technique workshops, followed by projects that put into practice the skills just learned. Every project includes clear artworks plus a difficulty rating, from 'easy peasy' to 'you're on your way', 'you've got this', and 'you're a star'. As children progress through the levels they will learn how to make their own toys, bags, accessories and clothes, and will be encouraged to put their own creative ideas into their sewing.

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Book SynopsisNo matter your size or shape, Kenneth D. King will teach you how to make perfect-fitting garments every time. In this comprehensive resource, Kenneth shows the home sewer how to understand her shape and fitting options, as well as how to identify bad fit by reading the wrinkles in the garment. From there, he explains his Smart Fitting methods - net gain (add fabric), net loss (remove fabric), or no net gain or loss (move fabric around) - to make the necessary corrections to the pattern. Along the way, Kenneth draws on his 30+ years of patternmaking and couturier experience to help the sewer understand proportion, wearing ease, and design ease; learn how to measure correctly; learn about fitting and alteration methods; learn how to make a muslin - the gold standard of test garments; and learn how to alter patterns for 35 upper body part issues. The home sewer will also be privy to garment construction tips picked up during Kenneth's years of couture sewing - things that make complex details a breeze. In Kenneth D. King's Fitting Essentials, Kenneth takes an otherwise confusing process and makes it logical and straightforward. AUTHOR: Kenneth D. King is a contributing editor at Threads Magazine, couture fashion designer, author and popular professor at The Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. He specializes in custom evening wear and his designs appear in the permanent collections of leading museums, including the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, renowned for its art and design collections.

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Book SynopsisLearn how to build on your sewing repertoire as you take the next step on your making journey.The Great British Sewing Bee: The Skills is the second title in this brand-new, standalone series that celebrates dressmaking techniques. Building on the basics covered in The Great British Sewing Bee: The Techniques, this book includes chapters on: Preparation & pattern matching Working with different fabrics such as leather and lace How to take your sewing to the next level with finishes Specialist techniques including boning, swimwear and underwear Decorations & embellishments Interspersed with expert tips and step-by-step illustrations, The Skills is an indispensable reference for intermediate sewers that will encourage you to take your dressmaking to the next level.

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Book SynopsisLearn to sew garments that you’ll love and want to wear all throughout the year. Craft a timeless and versatile wardrobe for every day with Nani Iro, the Japanese fabric brand by artist and textile designer Naomi Ito. In this follow-up to The Nani Iro Sewing Studio, Naomi and her talented atelier present a collection of 18 artful garments that can be enjoyed all year round – simply change the fabric selection or design elements like sleeve length to customize pieces for specific seasons. These garments are intended to be layered, mixed, and matched to push the boundaries of your wardrobe and experiment with print and colour. From simple, beginner-friendly tunics that can be made in one day to more challenging dresses with special details, such as pleats and gathers, you’ll find stunning garments inspired by and designed for showcasing beautiful textiles. Full-size pattern sheets are included to help you draft your beautiful designs. Sizes range from XS-XL, though the relaxed style of many of the garments will fit a more inclusive size range. Finished measurements are provided for each pattern to help you select the projects that will work best for you. Embark on a year-long sewing journey with Nani Iro and create a wardrobe full of styles that can be made and worn beyond a single season.

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Book SynopsisPillows are one of the easiest items to sew, and one of the most affordable ways to add a splash of color and personality to a room. With twelve cute and cuddly animal pillows to make, and easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions, seamstresses of all skill levels will enjoy making them. It is so easy to create these adorable pet pillows - all that's needed is a sewing machine, some inexpensive fabric, and a few basic sewing tools. The hardest part will be deciding which pillow to make first!

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Book SynopsisWith womenswear sizes ranging from 8 to 22, along with seven downloadable PDF pattern sheets, The Great British Sewing Bee: The Modern Wardrobe covers everything you need to build garments that are easy to make, wear and combine. Discover how one pattern could become three different looks through a series of simple alterations. The 28 projects in this book will help you gain confidence as you learn how to make clothes you love and cherish. The projects include: paper bag shorts, dance dress, Oxford Bag trousers, Breton two-piece, a-line dress and much more. Expand on crucial techniques and further your understanding in how to bring in more of your own personal style into the clothes you want to wear. Complete with stunning photography, clear illustrations and instructions, demystify the pattern process to create a variety of flattering garments for every occasion that suit your style and fit your figure. Starting with the essentials, learn how to personalise patterns with expert sewing tips on making alterations that will take you beyond this book as you build on your sewing skills.

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Book SynopsisBestselling author Claire Shaeffer teaches you everything you need to know to plan and sew the perfect jacket. Based on couture techniques learnt from master tailors, this book begins with the equipment, materials, design elements, and sewing and construction techniques used in all types of tailoring. Part Two provides an illustrated step-by-step guide to making a couture jacket, explaining all the design options and alternative methods for making every element including collars, sleeves and pockets.Couture Tailoring includes over 800 step-by-step illustrations throughout, over 200 photographs of couture jackets by Chanel, Dior, Yves Saint Laurent and more than 100 couture tips.Any aspiring tailor must have this book in their fashion library.

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Book SynopsisFor fast and professional edging, hemming, seaming, and decorative stitching, you simply can’t beat a serging machine. This all-skill-level book is the perfect guide to make sure you get the most out of your new machine (or out of that old serger that you’ve never got the hang of!) Photographs and step-by-step instructions guide you through the essential techniques, showing you how to set up your machine, how to adjust the settings to get the best results on a range of different fabrics, and how to edge your fabrics quickly with perfect results. The troubleshooting section provides tips and quick fixes for skipped stitches, snapped threads, and uneven stitching. Also includes a buyer’s guide to different sergers, providing you with advice on finding the right machine for you.Trade ReviewMay 14 Are you too scared to get an overlocker out of its box? This book for all skills includes photographs, diagrams and illustrations with every basic detail to get started. Once you've got to grips with an overlocker, you'll never look back. It's easy to thread up and sew, edge fabrics quickly and create a perfect finish. Step-by-step instructions ensure you get the best results with any fabric, including knitting. * Machine Knitting Monthly *June 14 Whether you have just bought an overlocker for the first time, or you have had one for years but barely used it, this manual will enable you to get the most out of your machine! An in-depth introduction to the basics answers any questions you might have and explains with clear illustrations exactly how to use and adjust your overlocker for professional results. Once you are confi dent overlocking simple seams you can move onto the techniques section which is a comprehensive guide to the more decorative uses of an overlocker, including using different feet for gathering, beading and bias binding amongst others. Each technique is well illustrated with photographs and step-by-step instructions and the quick constructions allow you to practice the techniques you have learnt whilst simultaneously making desirable projects. * SEWING WORLD *Feb 14 Want a professional finish to your sewing? An overlocker is the answer. It provides professional seams, hems and edges. This manual provides step-by-step instructions to guide you through the essential techniques. Find out how to get the very best from your overlocker – it is more versatile than you think. A range of projects will help hone your skills. Useful for all skill levels; to learn, remind or keep as a resource. Clear instructions and photographs. * Karen Platt Yarnsandfabrics.co.uk/crafts *Aug 2014 This is the third of the books that Search Press sent to me for review purposes. I chose to review it because although more and more home sewists are investing in overlockers (or ‘sergers’), it seems to me that they are often perceived as ‘scary’ machines – so I thought this book might appeal! I bought my overlocker in 2011 and it probably wasn’t until last year that I actually nailed how to rethread the thing quickly. To be perfectly honest, it wasn’t the threading that was an issue: although a bit fiddly, I can do that bit in a couple of minutes. No, it was getting the tension of all the threads right that took hours. It became like a jackpot – sometimes I would rethread and it would be fine straight away, and other times I would fiddle about for hours. One day last year, out of pure frustration, whilst feeding my test scraps of fabric through and trying to get the right tension, I manually pulled each of the four threads in turn as they were feeding through, making the tension incredibly tight for a short time and then letting go and letting it feed through normally. For some unknown reason, it worked a treat, and this is what I do each time now if it isn’t working properly. So, it took me two years to be able to confidently rethread my machine. I knew my machine had uses other than finishing raw edges and sewing knits, but until a few weeks ago when I sat down in front of the overlocker with this book at hand, I hadn’t experimented at all. Why? I suppose time was a factor. Who wants to spend hours on end faffing around with an overlocker? I could make a dress in that time! But this book review was the incentive I needed to get down to business – how could I review a book properly without putting it to the test? Readers – I gave this book a thorough test. I worked my way through this book in maybe 5 or 6 hours, starting right at the beginning and working through in order. As I began to work through the book, my main question for the purposes of this review was: how is this book different to my instruction manual? After all, there is no value in buying a book that is the same as the overlocker’s manual (unless, of course, you don’t have the manual for your machine). The book is divided into three chapters: ‘Overlocking Basics’, ‘Techniques’ and ‘Quick Constructions’. Working in conjunction with this book and my overlocker instruction manual, I familiarised myself with what each bit of the overlocker is called and what it is/can be used for. Some of this I already knew, but I did learn some new things and as a result of the exercise I now have quite a thorough understanding of the machine. In the three years of owning my overlocker, only once have I changed the differential feed – I did this to help gather up the hem of a circle skirt. The book taught me that when the differential feed is a higher number than ‘N’ (normal), the front teeth of the feed dog move more quickly than the back teeth, and this creates gathering. When the differential feed is lower than ‘N’, the front teeth move more slowly than the back teeth, to create a stretch effect (depending upon the fabric type, of course). One thing that I had always found confusing in my overlocker manual was something it referred to as ‘size of bight’, and elsewhere in the manual ‘width of bite’. This ‘bight’/’bite': I had no idea what it was – only that I could widen it if I wanted. But the book taught me that it’s the cutting width – perhaps this ‘bight’/’bite’ is a translation error in my manual or something? Either way, I’m glad to have finally got that information straight! Under the guidance of this book, I learnt how to retract the upper knife, how to adjust the stitch width, and how to remove the stitch finger. This enabled me to stitch a teeny tiny rolled hem! I’m so pleased I learnt how to do this, I can definitely see me using this function a lot. I also learnt how to make pin-tucks on the overlocker, French seams, welt seams and fell seams. I would never have considered using my overlocker before for any of these seam finishes. It isn’t exactly rocket science, but it was good to learn some alternative methods. The book tells you how to use a variety of different attachments, such as elastic and beading attachments and piping, blind-hemming, gathering, bias binding, taping and cording feet. My machine only has one foot, but this foot doubles up as a cording foot due to the small hole in the top of the foot through which one can feed cord. With the help of the book I learnt how to overlock over a piece of cord or yarn (for decorative purposes), and how to overlock over stabilising tape, which will be useful when constructing seams of knit garments that need extra stabilisation, such as shoulder seams and waist seams. I didn’t have any clear elastic to practise with, but I imagine that would work on the same principle as the seam tape. So far so good. The techniques section of this book really did enable me to get to grips with my machine. I learnt new techniques that I will definitely use again, and these techniques were explained in a much clearer way than in my manual, and with clear photographs too. The ‘Quick Constructions’ section is comprised of a series of simple projects in which you can test out your newly acquired overlocking skills. The projects are basic, and nothing to write home about. The chapter does finish with a ‘Guide to Fabrics’ section though – giving guidance on different fabrics and what size needles they would be best paired with, what differential feed to use, what stitch length is best, suggested tension settings and tips on hemming techniques. These four pages are very, very useful. The biggest disappointment of this book was that there was no mention of the care and maintenance of your overlocker – for instance how (and where) to oil it, how to remove the needle plate and clean the feed dogs, how to change the bulb, the blades etc. After all the time I spent learning about how to use the machine, I felt so invested in it that I was willing to spend another hour giving it a mini home-service, but the book doesn’t touch on this at all, which I think is a great shame. I may have learnt a lot about the functionality of the machine, but I’m still a bit nervous about taking it to pieces to clean it properly! Boo! One other, small, gripe: it suggests overlocking with different types of thread to achieve different effects, for example using thread that changes colour, metallic thread, woolly nylon, embroidery thread, even yarn…which is all very well and good if these are wound onto a bobbin, but when I attempted to use some metallic pearl cotton from a skein, I was left wondering how on earth to wind it suitably and place it securely onto the bobbin holder?? Overall, this is a good book to have. I’ve learnt a lot from it and, although it is not tailored specifically to my exact model of machine, it has been a lot more useful than the manual itself has ever been. I would recommend the book to people who have overlockers with no manual, or to people who want to get more from their machines and try new techniques. * threadcarefully.com *Table of ContentsAbout this book 6 Why I love my overlocker 8 Chapter 1: Overlocking Basics 10 Anatomy of an overlocker 12 Must-have tools 16 Threads 20 Setting up the machine 22 Getting comfortable 27 Getting started 28 Fixing mistakes 30 Finishing and securing ends 32 Adjusting the overlocker settings 34 Adjusting the cutting width 35 Adjusting the thread tensions 36 Adjusting the stitch length 40 Adjusting the differential feed 42 Chapter 2: Techniques 44 Basic stitches 46 Simple seams 48 Overlocking around corners 52 Overlocking curves, circles and tubes 56 Stabilising seams 60 Mock band hems 62 French seams 64 Welt and fell seams 66 Roll hemming 68 Cover stitch 70 Chain stitch 72 Flatlocking 74 Overlocking with decorative threads 76 Using a piping foot 79 Using an elastic attachment 82 Using a blind hemming foot 84 Using a gathering foot 86 Using a cording foot 88 Using a bias binding foot 90 Using a taping foot 93 Using a beading attachment 94 Chapter 3: Quick Constructions 96 Evening scarf/sarong 98 Simple top 99 Tote bag 102 Child’s dress 104 Quick quilt 106 Cushion cover 110 Drawstring bag 112 Tube skirt 117 Guide to fabrics 120 Glossary 124 Index 126 Credits 128

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Book SynopsisThe ultimate, exhaustive stitch dictionary for specialist Hardanger embroiderers! Hardanger embroidery is renowned for its intricate cutwork, and now you can explore the vast array of stitches that bring this art form to life. Introducing the most comprehensive stitch dictionary ever compiled for Hardanger embroiderers. Inside this invaluable resource, you'll discover a treasure trove of traditional and contemporary filling stitches, ranging from delightfully simple to exquisitely complex. Each stitch is meticulously explained in clear, step-by-step instructions accompanied by detailed diagrams. Whether you're a visual learner or prefer following written instructions, this book caters to your learning style with colour-coded left-handed (red) and right-handed (blue) instructions for every stitch. You will learn to avoid problems and have the self-assurance to fix any mistakes you make. Yvette Stanton’s expert instructions will help you on your way to making beautiful Hardanger embroidery filling stitches. In addition to the extensive stitch collection, you'll also find captivating historical information, accompanied by striking photographs of both antique and contemporary Hardanger examples. Dive into the rich history of this timeless craft while gaining insights into materials, equipment, and essential tips and tricks. Discover the secrets to achieving perfect tension, ensuring your stitches and cutwork are flawlessly executed. Whether you're a seasoned Hardanger embroiderer or just starting your stitching journey, this exhaustive stitch dictionary will become your go-to resource. Unleash your creativity and master the art of Hardanger filling stitches with confidence, guided by the expert instructions found within these pages.Trade ReviewIf you're a Hardanger embroidery enthusiast, you'll want to check out this new stitch dictionary. It's a comprehensive resource that features a wide range of traditional and modern filling stitches, from simple to complex. The book is filled with clear step-by-step instructions and detailed diagrams, making it easy to follow along. It even has colour-coded left and right-handed instructions for every stitch. In addition to the extensive stich collection, you'll also find fascinating historical information, striking photographs and essential tips and tricks. Whether you're a seasoned Hardanger embroiderer or just getting started, this exhaustive stitch dictionary is an invaluable resource that will help you unleash your creativity and master the art of Hardanger embroidery with confidence. -- Stitch Magazine * Issue 147 *Table of ContentsIntroduction Foundations for fillings Before you begin, Starting new threads, Satin stitch, Cable stitch, Four-sided stitch, Eyelet, Cutting fabric threads, Troubleshooting cutting-related errors, Withdrawing fabric threads Filling stitches Starting & finishing threads for cutwork, The importance of tension, Woven bars, Wrapped bars, Lacing behind, Changing threads during cutwork, Zig-zagging lines, Divided bars, Woven diagonals, Twists, Curled V, Dove’s eye, Square filet, Beaded square, Nutmeg stitch, Picots, Greek cross, Woven fan, Spider web, Buttonhole arc, Eyelets as filling stitches, Diamond filling, Drunkard’s path, Festoon stitch, Flower filling, Wheel filling, Edelweiss, Queen Anne’s lace, Bullion flower, Chain stitch flower, Lacy daisy, Soleil stitch, Lacy buttonhole edge Sampler Appendix – decoding fillings Pictorial index Index

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Book SynopsisLearn how to sew your own Scandi-style capsule wardrobe full of staple garments made to last. The best garments in your wardrobe are ones you want to wear over and over again. Clothes that fit well, make you feel comfortable and confident and reflect who you are. Featuring 18 designs in sizes 6–22 and PDF patterns, Sew Your Own Scandi Wardrobe will show you how to sew classic garments. The core designs can be combined to form a multitude of outfits, that can be worn for everyday life as well as special occasions. Take the patterns further with suggestions on adjustments and variations that enable you to create and design garments that suit your unique style. Packed with stunning fashion photography, Sew Your Own Scandi Wardrobe will inspire and offer you techniques and tips for easy ways to get started and succeed with sewing, both as a beginner and advanced sewer.

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Book SynopsisClothing repair through visible mending is a movement that now has hundreds and thousands of followers, and Erin Eggenburg is one of the leading proponents. Through her beautiful stitch designs, Erin shows you how to hand stitch or darn your clothes and other fabric items to mend them, rather than discard them. The patterns are organized by skill level, from beginner to expert, and each project includes a photo of the completed, stitched pattern, as well as step-by-step diagrams showing how to recreate the design. Comprising over 50 hand-stitched mending patterns, you can give worn clothes a new lease of life by using these beautiful designs to repair your clothes and other fabric items.Trade ReviewMeet the ultimate guide to visible mending, The Mending Directory by Erin Eggenburg is here to show you how you can fix your clothes instead of throwing them away. With over 50 hand-stitched and darned examples, organised by skill level, it's never been easier to give worn clothes a new lease of life. -- Crafts Beautiful * Crafts Beautiful *What an amazing book, full of information on how to renew outdated clothes and to mend and add flare to clothes that need uplifting. This book includes an abundance of modern stitch patterns and sashiko visible mending designs to transform clothes, that give you ideas to use the patterns for other purposes. The book and patterns are for beginners and more experienced sewists. l also love the way photo's are also used to show how your finished project could and will look. l will use this book over and over again. -- Lynne Callister * Amazon *We all know we could do with making our wardrobes last a little longer. This is a great little book that cuts straight to the point with all sorts of different patterns to use when making visible repairs. It's easy to dip into to find ideas to rejuvenate jeans, cover unsightly stains and tart up tatty knitwear with colourful patches of stitched love. To make things really easy, it comes with reusable iron-on transfers. * Stitch Magazine *These 50 hand-stitched modern mending patterns help us give worn clothes and fabric a new lease of life. The patterns are organized from beginners to experts and each includes a photo and step-by-step diagrams. * Machine Knitting Monthly *A marvellous informative and inspirational book I have really enjoyed this lovely book. The book is written very well, taking into account both beginners and more experienced sewists. The designs are very well photographed, and the instructions are really clear and easy to follow. There is a wide variety of designs, and the techniques for woven or knitted mending are quite decorative. The only thing that seems to be missing is any tips on how to stop the material used for patching on the woven sections from fraying. Other than this minor comment, this book is very educational and enjoyable. Well worth the money. -- Jacqui Grainger * Amazon Customer Review *This book is easy to follow and full of inspiration. An excellent book to inspire both beginners and experienced sewers; even those who have never picked up a needle to have can have a go at decorative mending before throwing away a loved garment or item. There are also lovely ideas to add a Boho feel boring garments. Well-written with clear illustrations and a selection of iron transfers. -- Bernadette McGowan * Amazon Customer Review *Table of ContentsMeet Erin! 4 About this book 6 CHAPTER ONE: THE BASICS 8 Tools and materials: hand stitching 10, Planning the mend 12, Patching options 14, Using the iron-on transfers 18, Getting started 20, Finishing the mend 20, Tools and materials: hand darning 22, Deciding what thickness of yarn or thread 23, How to weave in loose ends 24 CHAPTER TWO: THE PATTERN DIRECTORY 28 Beginner Paired Diagonals 30, Coloured Dashes 32, Herringbone Crosses 34, Double Crosses 36, Twisted Bands 38, Crossed Double Dashes 40, Tessellating Diamonds 42, Zigzag Slashes 44, Intersected Diamonds 46, Horizontal Flowers 48, Triangle Chains 50, Interconnected Diamonds 52, Alternating Stars 54, Stars and Diamonds 56, Dotted Lines and Boxes 58, Rectangle Maze 60, Zigzag Stripes 62, Repeating Rainbows 64, Garden of Lilies 66, Dotted Circles 68 Intermediate Symmetrical Sun 70, Dandelion Clocks 72, Large Lilies 74, Garden of Raindrops 76, Circles and Dashes 78, Dotted Chains 80, Suns and Crosses 82, Embellished Squares 84, Squares and Triangles 86, Garden of Flowers 88, Interlocking Boxes 90, Herringbone Boxes 92, Diagonal Zigzags 94, Windmills 96, Two-colour Darn 98, Graded Squares 100, Confetti Patch 102, Cross-stitch Darn 104, Love Heart Darn 106 Advanced Darn with Stars 108, Darn with Dashes 110, Alternating Weave 112, Striped Weave 114, Horizontal Dashes 116, Vertical Dashes 118, Double Weave 120, Central Stripe 122, Crossed Weave 124, Crossed Dashes 126, Alternating Dashes 128, Textured Weave 130, Crosses and Stripes 132, Pattern 53 134, Pattern 54 136 Index 142 Credits 144

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Book SynopsisThis is the perfect book for beginner sewers, with friendly and easy-to-follow directions. Sew Me! Sewing Basics is geared towards would-be sewers of all ages, who may never have touched a sewing machine or even threaded a needle before. It's the perfect book for anyone who wants to get started in the craft, or just needs a quick refresher course in sewing. Choly Knight's friendly and easy-to-follow directions will get readers sewing with confidence, making repairs and creating new garments from scratch. She starts at the very beginning, showing how to choose a sewing machine and introducing the most basic techniques and shortcuts. From cutting patterns and sewing seams, to binding edges, gathering fabric and installing zippers, each new skill is accompanied by a quick practice exercise to try, allowing readers to learn as they sew. 36 simple and straightforward projects are provided for sewing fun accessories from plushies, pincushions and placemats to hand towels and hats.

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Book SynopsisPacked with colour and style, this gorgeous and inspiring new book from Scottish artist Moy Mackay delves deep into the world of felt painting. The book includes an introduction to Moy’s use of colour and texture, as well as a useful section detailing what inspires her and how she forms these initial ideas into a composition. There are 4 easy-to-follow but inspiring step-by-step projects, along with extensive galleries of Moy’s vibrant work. Unlike the broad range of her previous book, the focus here is flowers – in still life, in the landscape and as botanical portraits – and the book includes an in-depth techniques section on creating a range of different flower and leaf shapes, so that the reader can go on to produce their own unique masterpieces. "Moy's passionate use of colour and the deep texture created by felting are what draw me to her work. I also like the way that she concentrates on her surroundings for her subject matter – her work is very free."-Kaffe FassettTrade ReviewNovember 2014 Subtitled ‘Creating Floral Works Using Fleece, Fibres and Threads’. Moy Mackay’s ‘felt paintings’ are works of art. This book contains many images of her work. You can discover how to create a ‘felt painting’ with the four step-by-step projects. See the in-depth techniques used, learn what equipment is needed, be inspired and discover how to add detail with machine or hand stitching. Marvellous colourful and imaginative work. Highly recommended. * Karen Platt Yarnsandfabrics.co.uk/crafts *December 2014 Moy Mackay’s previous book ‘Art in Felt and Stitch’ (reviewed in WOW in September 2012) looked at felting a variety of subjects. In this follow-on book, flowers are the focus. From the outset, the author sets out her more unconventional approach to felting. Using felt fibres to ‘paint’ a picture, she talks of how to use these and other silks and threads to include as much detail as possible. She also uses scissors as an integral part of her process to achieve clear lines and angles. She takes us through the felting techniques from placement of fibres, wet felting, followed by needle felting and then embellishing through stitch. As a book geared towards flowers, the different flower forms are explored and felting techniques explained to achieve the shape and look of flowers as diverse as daisies, thistles and lavender. This is a particularly good section, providing enough different shapes for the reader to be able to tackle most flowers. The author’s reworking of a Victorian-style flower study is a work of art before it’s felted, and to see the project explained from start to finish puts the different stages into context. The book covers three main areas of flowers in art and adapts them to felting. In addition to the ‘Victorian Study’, there are ‘Flowers in Still Life’ and ‘Flowers in Landscape’. Each of these contains a sample project, fully illustrated with step-by-step instructions and photographs, together with a large variety of finished pieces for each section. This is a very bright and colourful book, full of beautiful felted pieces that show you how to felt flowers in a variety of artistic styles. * Workshop On The Web *February 2015 Textile artist Moy Mackay's book Art in Felt and Stitch was a huge success, and this follow-up volume delves a little deeper into her methods and inspirations, Moy's paintings are a vivid fusion of felting and stitching techniques with fine art; what really sings from these pages is the tremendous sense of energy her work contains, and this is an exuberance that extends to the reader. When you see what the author achieves with carding felt and hand stitching, you can't help but want to give these methods a try yourself. With a complete lack of any kind of pretension, Moy helps the reader construct their own works of art with ease, breaking down her techniques in a very understandable way, and encouraging experimentation. The images and illustrations are sumptuous, and the book provides a rich seam of inspiration which anybody with even a vaguely creative notion will want to follow. Whether you're looking for something different to do in between heavy quilting projects, or want to supplement your existing skill set, then you should give this book a try; its dreamlike images and good advice will stay with you. * Popular Patchwork *April 2015 Moy's 'felt paintings' blend traditional felting techniques using fleece, threads and fibres with hand and free-machine embroidery to create dynamic, tactile images. Colour guru Kaffe Fassett describes Moy's style as 'very free' with a 'passionate use of colour and deep texture'. As Kaffe says, Moy 'concentrates on her surroundings for her subject matter'. Indeed, in this especially, Moy's fine art training shines through. Flowers are not outlined and separated from their backgrounds, but interpreted as part of their environment whether in their natural habitat or in bouquet form in a still-life. Although outlines and details may be emphasised by stitch, the flowers are always completely integrated with the ground. In 'Summer Meadow', for example, suggestions of individual blooms are created using additional stitch in the foreground, diminishing subtly in size and quantity tumbling around a house at the picture's centre. The landscape is then interpreted more loosely, the horizon and skyscape melding as naturally as if real. Full-page images of Moy's jewel-like pictures are invitingly textural, encouraging further experimentation. Full instructions are given for creating both individual flower forms and landscapes. Introductory chapters cover not only basic techniques and materials but are also a guide to developing your own design style. * Stitch *Table of ContentsIntroduction 6 Materials and equipment 10 Inspiration 22 Colour 30 Adding texture and detail 36 Techniques 40 Essential flower forms 64 Leaves 82 Flower study 86 Flowers in still life 94 Flowers in the landscape 112 Index 128

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Book SynopsisYou gotta weave it to believe it! Learn fabric weaving with 12 fun projects for crafters, garment sewists, and quilters. Try out simple, classic patterns incorporating woven textiles anywhere you’d use fabric!Trade ReviewPlay with colour and pattern and learn fabric weaving with 12 fun projects for crafters, garment sewers and quilters. The simple classic patterns include items such as cushion covers and bags, all incorporating woven textiles in place of using fabric. * Machine Knitting Monthly, February 2023 *

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Book SynopsisGnomes for your home! Stitch a year-round collection of 12 friendly gnomes for your home using this fabulous new book by sewing superstar Debbie Shore. Gnomes aren't just for winter! Sewing superstar Debbie Shore presents a friendly, fashion-forward, all new collection of 12 gnomes for your home, based on her hugely popular Erik and Ola creations from Half Yard (TM) Winter. Beginning with all the materials and tools you'll need, as well as guidance on making up the 2 body sizes (small and large) and key features such as feet, braids and beards, Debbie then shows you how to make 12 magical gnomes. From Moss the Woodland Gnome and Noel the Christmas Gnome, to Eek the Witch Gnome and Hearty the Pirate Gnome, there is a whole host of characterful friends to stitch! Fun accessories feature in the outfits throughout, including wings, a toadstool hat, flowers, bees and more - why not mix-and-match outfits and accessories, so you can make a gnome that's gn-unique to you! Full-size templates for key accessories and shapes are included at the back of the book.Trade ReviewA quirky selection of Gnomes to Sew, each with their unique names, personalities and stories. Debbie Shore’s new book has clear photos, not only of the completed project but easy to follow instructions to enable very ability of sewer to create a masterpiece. Step by step you can create 12 magical friends with the added benefit of full size patterns in two different size characters. The first few pages explain the notions and materials best used for the projects, as well as close up photos and instructions for visual learners to explain the tricky sections of constructing the body, shoes and beards. Debbie always encourages the use of recycled materials and additions to make your gnomes unique. She also suggests making your own designed Gnome family to compliment those in the book. Great value for money, this would be an ideal book, for sewers of all abilities due to the materials used. There is also the option to hand sew if a machine is not an option. This is a must have book for your sewing shelf. -- Helen * Half Yard Sewing Club Member *Sew Gnomes contains many variations of gnomes for all times of the year including Christmas gnomes, a spooky Halloween gnome and a Easter rabbit gnomes. The book is a good size and the quality is amazing. The colour and pictures are very eye catching. The book has exceeded my expectations and I can't wait to make more of Debbie's projects. Her instructions are easy to follow and are perfect for any skill level. I believe the book could be improved with a note section on each project that could be handy for people using the book as they can write down any notes that they might need on the way. Overall this book is absolutely amazing and I cannot wait to make some. -- Megan * Half Yard Sewing Club Member *Good size book, well laid out, nice clear font and good use of colour on the pages. Love the different sections for bodies, beards, noses, hands and feet. Easy to mix and match across the 12 gnome patterns and come up with my own ideas. Each gnome has a story so great way to get the kids involved. Instructions to make the gnomes in two sizes and very easy to follow so likely to get good results with these projects. Love the little extras like how to make the spider for Eek. -- Juliet * Half Yard Sewing Club Member *Book Review of Sew Gnomes by Debbie Shore - August 2023 Published by Search Press This is a charming book which introduces you to 12 cute Gnome characters, one for all seasons. The book describes each character and provides step by step instructions and full size traceable templates in the back to enable you to cut out and make each of the characters. I love that all the characters can be sewn by hand so no machine necessary and there is also a section to demonstrate they different hand stitches needed. There is a basic gnome section showing you how to make the main parts likes body, hands and feet etc. then each character is customisable using either the suggested features and accessories or you can be really creative and make your own character from a mix of the suggestions or by inventing your own accessories. The projects are easy enough for a beginner and the book could be used to help younger sewers. Lovely, bright colourful illustrations throughout. Reasonably priced at £10.99 and no expensive equipment or supplies needed. This is a great way to use up scraps and leftover fabrics. I think I will be making a spooky ‘Eek’ gnome first for Halloween, followed by ‘Noel’ and ‘Kold’ which will be part of my festive decorations. Can’t wait to get started. -- Jackie * Half Yard Sewing Club Member *Sew Gnomes by Debbie Shore To be perfectly honest this isn’t my usual ‘go to’ or ‘must have’ craft book. As I have never made gnomes or had the inclination to, but, having read through this adorable little book I have surprised myself in how much I want to make my first Gnome, I’m hooked! From my past experiences when purchasing any new craft book it is the quality of the pictures throughout that I tend to look for, as I find learning through visual content rather than the written word easier. No worries on this front with this book as the pictures from cover to cover, inside and out are self-explanatory and are of a beautiful quality, being bright and colourful and of a good size. I was impressed with the ‘Materials and notions’ and ‘Hand stitches’ chapters, as this clearly told me exactly what products I would need for the Gnomes and each stitch that is needed was very clearly illustrated and explained. The next chapter ‘Making Gnome body & features’ really triggered my creative imagination. As it gives me the opportunity to add my own characteristics to these lovely little magical friends. What I also really like about this book are the individual chapters for each Gnome character. With each chapter being laid out so well , and easy to follow. It starts with exactly what you need to create each character, and it is then explained in both words and pictures on how to bring them to life, for even a novice Gnome maker like myself. I love having full-size templates at the back, (no messing with attempting to enlarge these on a printer!). Just a small tip, do photo-copy these template pages and make them from a hard card or template plastic and leave this beautiful book intact. The size of the book is perfect, and easy to pop into a craft bag or take away with you to your favourite destination or craft class. At only £10.99 this book is excellent value and worth keeping on your craft book shelf. This is an ideal book to bring out when the children are around as it will keep them and adults alike amused for hours as the characters are so playful and such fun it will spark their imagination. As no sewing machine is required, these little gems can be created anywhere with minimal amount of fuss and craft supplies. It will be difficult to choose which Gnome to make first, but if I had to choose it would be Ding and Dong. I just love the characteristics you can create with these two, plus I am a bit in love with their felt boots! As I’m writing this review, sat on a sun lounger in the South of France, I’m currently Googling where my nearest craft shop is for supplies of felt! So do look out on my Instagram for Gnome pictures. Thank you to Debbie Shore for introducing me to the wonderful world of Gnomes!! -- Sandi * Half Yard Sewing Club Member *Debbie Shore - Sew Gnomes £10.99 ( published by Search Press, September 2023) Another lovely book by Debbie to add to my collection. A fun theme to cover every season clearly presented with colour photographs and full size patterns, no messing about just get sewing. The pictures make the book easy for any beginner to follow with an uncomplicated materials list. Nice tips on notions and techniques to use. The size of the printing is easy to read and refer to. The Gnomes can be hand sewn and/or machine sewn. I am looking forward to making Fungus first, a cute little character. The book would make a nice gift for any age to enjoy and even to recycle your scraps. One thing to note is that they are not toys. -- Sandra * Half Yard Sewing Club Member *When I opened this book, it was like opening the door to a magical land. Seeing all the adorable characters you can imagine them coming to life. They are so cute & the amount of detail & thought that has gone into these Gnomes is so Debbie Shore. The book as always by Debbie Shore has so many clear step by step pictures & the instructions are very clear. Don't worry if you can't draw as it has full size templates, which is ideal for someone like me. Also, there is a great variety of Gnomes to make, which makes making each one even more exciting. -- Pauline * Half Yard Sewing Club Member *As with all of Debbie's books, the quality is great, from all the pictures on the front cover and inside to the level of instruction, its so inviting. The book says its for 12 gnomes, but really your imagination is the only limit, guided by the author's experienced instruction. My favourite gnome is on page 72, such a cutie. The hands and feet even have nails. Explanation of all the requirements is really clear as well as detailed instructions for hand stitching and 5 pages of templates for key accessories and shapes. I absolutely love this book and have already started to make Bugs. :-) -- Tracey * Half Yard Sewing Club Member *If you love gnomes it's a must have book. The quality of the outer cover and pages is excellent. The photos are so detailed and the print is of a comfortable size to read and full size patterns are perfect. Overall an excellent, informative and great value for money book. -- Sue * Half Yard Sewing Club Member *Another fantastic and unique craft book by Debbie Shore! Although I often shy away from making dolls, toys, etc., I realized after reading Debbie's book, I can do this! All of her books are printed on high-quality paper with colorful and creative photography. Each page is thoughtfully laid out with easy to follow, step-by-step instructions and accompanying pictures. Product information with pictures along with Debbie's tips and techniques are a signature of her quality craft books. Full-size templates and all of the little extras are greatly appreciated especially for a first-timer! I look forward to making my first gnome! -- Jennifer * Half Yard Sewing Club Member *Table of ContentsIntroduction Materials & notions Hand stitches Making gnome bodies & features Bodies, Hands, Feet, Noses, Braids, Beards, Mittens, Boots THE GNOMES Fungus the Mushroom Gnome, Tatty the Scarecrow Gnome, Moss the Woodland Gnome, Kold the Snow Gnome, Ding & Dong the Fairy Gnomes, Noel the Christmas Gnome, Eek the Magic Gnome, Fauna & Flora the Flowerpot Gnomes, Hearty the Pirate Gnome, Bugs the Spring Gnome Templates

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Book SynopsisSew 20 stunning felt decorations – perfect for adding some festive charm to your home or for giving as gorgeous handmade gifts. Best-selling author Corinne Lapierre brings you 20 fantastic new festive designs! Create decorations to hang on your tree, ornaments to decorate your table and mantelpiece, and cards, gift bags and tags to send to loved ones. Including snowflakes, robins, stockings, snowmen, angels and more, there's something for everyone! Create gorgeous family heirlooms that you will look forward to seeing year after year. All the projects are simple to make, all the necessary templates are provided in the book and the stitches are clearly explained before you start. This fantastic little hardback project book, in a handy pocket-size format is part of the All-New Twenty to Make series.Trade ReviewClear instructions, good photos, templates are clear. There are instructions on how to go to the free website to download them to your device. Really lovely decorations for Christmas or all year round! -- Gail Cromack * Amazon Customer Review *Corinne Lapierre designs are absolutely charming – a nice mix of Scandi, French, traditional, modern feels; beautifully, clearly photographed pictures, nicely displayed, and very inspiring so you could not only make the ornaments illustrated – say, the robin wreath – but also interchange bits and pieces and use them for your own inspiration – say, make the robins into a garland (like the snowflake garland) or use them as parcel hangers. Instructions are clear and unthreatening and warn you of possible tricky bits (of which there are very very few!) Helpful, too, that in the intro technique section she explains which felts are best to work with, as there can be a huge difference. * Amazon Customer Review *This is a beautifully written craft book for felt embroidery. Very clear instructions. Easy for a beginner and experienced. The style is all top stitching with no seams to turn which makes for a quicker result. Also the stitch detail adds to the beauty and very rewarding. This book has more variety in projects. Hoop framed and box framed. Felt is so easy to cut no fray edges to worry about. -- Geraldine Walker * Amazon Customer Review *The instructions are clear and simple, the photos show exactly what to aim for and I love the extra tip offered for each project. There’s quite a lot of embroidery involved in some of the makes, which could be a bit daunting if you’re a stitch virgin like me. But again, clear, simple instructions are offered for the different stitches at the start of the book. I did worry that the hardback format might mean it was difficult to keep the book open at the desired page without cracking the spine, but actually, this isn’t a problem at all. The book stays open just fine. I’m looking forward to trying some of the projects! -- Gill Dickinson * Amazon Customer Review *Corinne Lapierre is thrilled to have partnered with Search Press again to launch a new book of festive projects. This is her fifth title with the specialist craft publishers and further establishes her as a world leading expert in craft design. She is particularly skilled at presenting very clear illustrations, instructions and stitch guides, making her projects ideal for crafters of all abilities, even complete beginners. Festive Felt Decorations is therefore the ideal gift or self-purchase for anyone contemplating trying a new hobby. Decorations include hanging and table ornaments, cards and gift tags inspired by her lifelong love of folk Scandinavian art with its rich colours and distinctive patterns. It’s quite amazing how many gorgeous handmade treasures can be made from simple felt and thread! A must for creating treasured family heirlooms and meaningful gifts, this book is sure to become another Corinne Lapierre best-selling title worldwide. * Gift Focus, October/November issue *This little hardback project book in a handy pocket-size format, is part of the All-New Twenty to Make series. Each project is simple to make, all necessary templates are provided and the stitches are clearly explained before we start. * Machine Knitting Monthly *Working with felt is addictive. It's easy to cut, glue, sew, and stuff, and it's easy for any skill level from child to adult. Lapierre lays it all out, starting with lists of materials and seven embroidery stitch how-tos and proceeding to her 20 projects, each with a handy tip on how to embellish, change, or enhance the finished product. A house decorated for the season with these hanging ornaments, a penguin for the table, stuffed pixies on the mantle, or a robin wreath for the door would be an inviting place for friends and family. The book also includes half-size templates. One caveat for those who succumb to the seductive photos of minuscule gingerbread cottages and mistletoe ornaments on display here: you'll probably need to purchase felt in a much larger quantity than the tiny amounts needed for these projects, so plan to make a lot of them! -- Barbara Jacobs * Booklist, October Issue *Table of ContentsIntroduction 4 Materials and tools 6 Techniques 8 Project 10 Angel, Reusable Cracker, Embroidered Felt Baubles, Appliqué Gift Pouch, Gingerbread Cottage, Mini Appliqué Hoops, Mini Stocking, Embroidered Christmas Card, Robin Wreath, Snowflake Garland, Carol Singers, Embroidered Dala Horse, Mistletoe, Framed Winter Scene, Penguin Table Setting, Reindeer Trophy Head, Pixie, Village Table Centrepiece, Santa Claus, Snowmen Templates 58

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Book SynopsisMake adorable mini plushies with Sew Your Own Ice Cream Animalsby Klutz! In this adorable kit, kids can sew four ice creamanimal treats with an extra topping of personality!

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Book SynopsisA Christmas-themed collection of embroidery transfers. Each transfer can be reused up to five times and there's an envelope to store cut-out designs.

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Book SynopsisSewing superstar, Debbie Shore has a real flair for designing simple projects that look amazing, and in this book she has created ingenious storage solutions to keep the home neat, tidy and beautifully styled. All the techniques and stitches needed are clearly explained, and the projects can all be made on a basic sewing machine. Projects are included for all areas of the home, and include a storage cube, drawstring toy bag, garment cover, iron caddy, jewellery pouch, tablet cover, knitting needle roll, drawer liner, laundry bag, sewing machine bag, gift wrap storage and even a heat-proof pouch for hair straighteners.Trade ReviewMarch 2015 This will bring hours of pleasure or simply provide some therapy as you concentrate on what is being made instead of on the world's problems. And, at the end of your labour; you've actually made something, on of the most satisfying things to accomplish. This is a handy guide for young homemakers, or perhaps grandmothers, who want to make gifts for their grand children and children. There are all kind of ideas and in the process you will also be learning and improving your sewing skills if you're a beginner. In this time of home-made goods, having your own knitting needle might just give you and edge among homemakers! So if you're in that starting line up of sewers or what to encourage someone with their sewing endeavours this is a perfect gift. * Pretoria News *May 2015 Debbie Shore has a real flair for designing simple projects that look amazing, and in this book she has created ingenious storage solutions to keep the home neat, tidy and beautifully styled. The book begins with much needed guidance that will have the beginner sewer ready to attempt any one of the 23 storage designs without hesitation. The more experienced sewer can enjoy attempting to adapt and personalise these designs to suit their own needs. Projects are included for all areas of the home, and include a storage cube, drawstring toy bag, garment cover, iron caddy, jewellery pouch, tablet cover, knitting needle roll, drawer liner, laundry bag, sewing machine bag, gift wrap storage and even a heat-proof pouch for hair straighteners. Debbie also offers extra tips and ideas for each of the projects such as printing a family photograph on printable canvas so you have the ultimate personalized fabric to really make your creations your own! * SEWING WORLD *May 2015 If you are looking for some beginner projects to get you started this affordable book is packed with good projects, useful things to make for your home. I’d recommend any of Debbie’s books as being a good place to start for projects, this one is my personal favourite of hers. - See more at: http://www.thesewingdirectory.co.uk/best-sewing-books/#sthash.DiAdiXNP.dpuf * Sewing Directory, The *December 2014 Another brilliant book from Debbie, so many things from it I want to make in particular the under bed storage, sewing machine bag and storage cubes. In fact I think out of the 23 projects there's only 3-4 I wouldn't make. Easy cutting instructions (no templates needed) plus step by step photos and written instructions make the projects simple to follow. * Sewing Directory, The *December 2014 Once again t.v. presenter Debbie has come up with another stunning collection of sewing projects in her newest book, covering all possible storage situations with solutions in the form of a practical yet attractive bags, boxes or totes. Debbie presents 23 simple-to-make designs, suitable for sewers of all abilities, with clear easy-to-follow instructions, ensuring perfect results every time. A superb book; outstanding value-for-money. * East Kent Embroiderer's Guild *December 2014 Every household could use some suggested solutions to their various storage needs for items that never seem to have a home around the house, for it would make for a much neater household environment when they do have a home. Turning to this easy-to-use and gorgeously illustrated handbook will allow crafters to indulge in fun crafting experiences that result in extremely useful items for the home. All projects presented are hand sewn and geared to small storage issues. For instance, the author gives clear directions for constructing such delights as a travel-iron holder, a garment cover, a chair-back caddy (for crafts supplies, of course), a garden tote (for those easy-to-misplace gardening tools), and an under-bed storage container. Tools and materials and basic techniques are discussed in the book’s opening pages. * Booklist *January 2015 I love these Debbie Shore books. True there probably isn't anything that you have not seen before but they all have Debbie's touch. Discover 23 storage solutions. It makes tidying fun and you can colour-coordinate projects and home. I love the iron caddy. Forget the plastic and use fabric for under bed storage, garden tote, garment covers and more. Clear instructions and techniques mean that you cannot go wrong. Easy to use for any ability with appealing and useful projects. Great to give as a gift too. * Karen Platt Yarnsandfabrics.co.uk/crafts *February 2015 A familiar face from television, Debbie Shore has supplemented her career as an actor and presenter with a whole new one as a popular sewing designer and author. This bright and lively book has a plethora of easily achievable projects, to suit varying ability levels. Debbie has a healthier attitude to promoting the craft and wants sewists to make and do as much as possible; she reasons in her introduction that more advanced crafters will be able to use her designs as a basis for far more elaborate projects, and we think that's a great way to look at it. There are some extremely practical ideas in here; the chair back caddy, with projects for all manner of bits and bobs, is a great idea and looks great in contemporary polka-dot fabric. There are some superb ideas for kids too, including a very attractive toy bag and a charming hammock for teddy bears. All in all this is a very pleasing collection of simple, lovely projects to get involved in. * Popular Patchwork *February 2015 If you are one who lives everything in its place and tucked away, you will make good use of this book. You need not be an expert seamstress, but it would help to have a fair knowledge of sewing because some of the projects are not straightforward. The book opens with a chapter on the basic stitches used to make the projects in the book as well as the tools and materials needed. Debbie Shore provide 23 storage solutions to sew to help keep your home tidy. The list includes a nursery bag for nappies, zipped under bed storage case to keep your sheets or blankets at hand, a pouch for your hair straightener; which would be handy if you travel, a round toy bag that opens out and doubles as a play mat (very convenient when on the move with your toddler) and a garden tote to carry your smaller tools if you're a gardening enthusiast. If you enjoy bring-and-share dinners at your friends' homes, you can make a dish carrier to fit your favourite casserole dish to keep the food warm until you reach your destination. And to take care of your sewing machine you can make the sewing machine bag to keep it dust-free and out of sight. Sew Useful is just that, a book full of useful sewing projects to make. * Daily News South Africa *February 2015 I have been busy at my sewing machine thanks to Debbie Shore and her new book Sew Useful with 23 simple storage solutions to sew for the home. As soon as the book arrived to review, I pulled out my fabric and started choosing between all the projects. I decided on the toy bag to start as I’ve been wanting to use this A-Z printed fabric and thought it would suit perfectly. The projects have been designed for use on a home sewing machine, with step-by-step instructions and there is something for sewers of all abilities. This for me is important as I’m still learning to sew and even though I’m confident with the easier projects, I also want to challenge myself and learn as I work through the book. So far I have already added 2 new items to my sewing kit – eyelets/grommets and fabric glue – and there is a section on learning basic techniques and stitches. I am very pleased with the result and want to make a few more. There are some handy storage projects for the nursery including a nappy holder, toy hammock, laundry bag, storage cubes and hoop baskets for little bits and bobs like cotton balls. To read The Mommy City review in full you can do so here: http://www.themommycity.co.za/sew-useful/ * The Mommy City *Table of ContentsIntroduction Useful materials and tools Basic techniques Useful stitches Chair Back Caddy Storage cube Drawstring Toy Bag Straighteners Pouch Craft Caddy Small Case Garment Cover Iron Caddy Jewellery Pouch Garden Tote Tablet Cover Under Bed Storage Nappy Stacker Knitting Needle Roll Pen Case Sunglasses Case Hoop Baskets Drawer Liner Pin and Paper Pouch Hammock Large Storage Basket Laundry Bag Needlecraft Booklet Gift Wrap Storage Sewing Machine Bag Index

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Book SynopsisCalling all sewists, cosplayers, and more! Smocking no longer has to be a guessing game (especially for beginners) with these helpful stencils by Maggie Hofmann, author of Smocking Secrets.

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Book SynopsisAll the techniques, step-by-step instructions and patterns you need to make 25 African wax print garments and accessories. INCLUDES FULL SIZE PATTERNS FOR UK DRESS SIZES 8 TO 26 African wax prints are colourful designs created by dyeing cotton fabric using wax-resist techniques, and then overprinting. The result is a fabric that is bright, colourful, and super-easy to use. Adaku Parker has developed 25 step-by-step projects to make a wide range of stylish pieces with this fabric. There are instant wardrobe classics like a shirt dress, A-line skirts, and culottes, as well as wonderful accessories such as tote bags, a zip purse, and a headband. The basic techniques you will need are all explained, so you’ll feel confident with essentials like attaching waistbands, gathering, pleats, making buttonholes, and adding linings. There are projects suitable for all skill levels so all you need is some gorgeous African wax print fabric and a sewing machine, and you’ll be on your way to updating your wardrobe with unique pieces that will help you stand out from the crowd.

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Book SynopsisThrough one quilt, learn how to patchwork and quilt by hand in this accessible how-to book. Slow stitching and mindful crafting is more popular than ever, and with just a few notions you can peacefully create a stunning quilt entirely by hand, in your own time and at your own pace. In her brand-new book, best-selling author and teacher Carolyn Forster will demonstrate all the techniques to hand-piece a variety of blocks and hand-quilt them together. Not only will you have a beautiful hand-made quilt at the end, but you can join thousands of other people today who are returning to the roots of traditional patchworking and quilting. Through a series of ‘bite-size’ lessons, you will be taken through the process of making your quilt chronologically, so you not only understand the order in which to craft your quilt, but you build up your skills as you progress through the book. Learn how to cut out your fabrics with and without templates, how to sew your patches together, and then get stuck into sewing a gorgeous library of blocks! There are 27 different blocks to make, each with its own piecing instructions, piecing diagrams, and helpful photographs that show the front and back of the block. Templates for every block are included at the back of the book, at full size. Once your blocks are ready to go, Carolyn shows you how to quilt them, using a combination of hand stitching and big-stitch quilting. Illustrated instructions are also included on how to construct and bind your quilt at the very end. With dozens of exquisite blocks to make, and useful and inspirational information throughout, this is a beautiful book that will take the mystery out of making hand-stitched quilts, and spark your quilting ideas for years to come.Trade ReviewCarolyn has written a gem of a book, great for those new to hand piecing and quilting but also a good reminder to those more experienced of the correct procedures in order to achieve precise results. I found the section on piecing particularly useful as Carolyn shows you how to sew your seams so they are neat and match perfectly. There are a variety of blocks for you to create and a suggestion on how you can place them to make a quilt but also suggestions on how you can make the quilt your own. I’m looking forward to using the book to refine my technique and make myself an heirloom quilt. -- Sam Jones * Customer Review *I have other Carolyn Forster books, so was hopeful of another good one, and this did not disappoint! Right from the Introduction, I realised this was going to be such a relaxing book to follow. I've never made a quilt totally by hand, but this book really makes me want to have a go. Such a change not to feel rushed to produce a quilt, but to be able to totally enjoy the process! I also like the fact that it takes you through the 27 blocks step-by-step, starting with the most simple, and that if you wanted to, could just use some of them for other projects, or do them all and make the quilt. Of course, if you like, you could always do them by machine! A really lovely book! * Customer Review *Learn how to patchwork and quilt by hand in this accessible how-to book. Slow stitching and mindful crafting is more popular than ever and with just a few notions you can peacefully create a stunning quilt entirely by hand, in your own time and at your own pace. * Machine Knitting Monthly, September 2023 *Patchwork instructor Forster (Hand Quilting Techniques for Farmhouse Style) details how to sew quilts by hand in this cozy manual. To follow the block design templates included with the book, Forster recommends gluing each unique shape onto card stock or a thin plastic sheet, cutting it out, and then using the piece to trace and cut that shape from fabric, leaving a quarter inch all the way around for the seam allowance. Forster explains how to make 27 blocks that readers can mix and match to create quilts. The designs range from the relatively simple, including a four-square checkerboard and a “simple block of rectangles around a square,” to the more complex – the “sunburst” design features 48 angular pieces arranged around a circle to resemble the rays of the sun and the 60-piece “carpenter’s wheel” features interlocked concentric rows of squares and diamonds. The author also provides two “quilt sampler layouts” showing how one might assemble the various blocks in a quilt. The designs are visually appealing, and beginners will appreciate the comprehensive photo illustrations showing how to thread a needle, make stitches, and sew seams. Readers will warm to this. * Publishers Weekly *Carolyn takes a lot of inspiration from antique and historical quilts, and she is truly interested in, and fascinated by, all aspects of quilt-making, both in knowledge and in practice [...] Every step of hand-piecing is broken down with clear instructions, close up photos, written text and top tips. It makes it incredibly accessible, easy to follow and beautiful to read. I adored everything about this book and it is another stunning and inspirational book for stitchers! -- Naomi Clarke * naomialice.co.uk *A super book with 27 block designs, including full-size patchwork templates. An A4 size book printed on quality paper and well bound. Extremely clear layout with easy understandable instructions supported by clear, colour photographs. I particularly like the choice of fabrics used for the blocks as it shows the piecing and pattern clearly. The beginning of the book has sections on equipment, technique to help you stitch, how to use templates and cut your fabric. Following the block patterns are sections on quilt layout, sewing the blocks together and how to sash, baste, hand quilt, bind and care for your finished quilt. There is a super selection of block designs including some more unusual ones, but they are all very striking. This is a beautiful comprehensive book, clearly presented and it would be a well received gift for both an experienced quilter and a beginner due to the very easy to follow guides. -- Sandra Grey * Customer Review *Table of ContentsIntroduction 6 Quilt materials 8 Piecing materials 9 Cutting & sewing fabric 10 Equipment for hand piecing 20 Starting to stitch 22 Piecing 26 Book of blocks 32 THE BLOCKS 34 Two Patch & Four Patch 36, Half Square Triangle 38, Kansas Dugout 40, Flying Geese 42, Album 44, Bright Hopes 46, Spools 48, Bow Tie 50, Snowball 52, Mill & Star 54, Courthouse Steps 56, Woven Ribbons 58, Pansy 60, Grandmother’s Star 62, Western Star 64, Wishing Star 66, Drusilla’s Delight 68, Southern Star 70, Arrowhead 72, Carpenter’s Wheel 74, Marbles 76, Water Wheel 78, Sailor’s Joy 80, Cassiopeia 82, Turkey Tracks 84, Thirties Tulip 86, Sunburst 88 Adding sashing & post squares 90 Making the quilt your own 92 Sewing the quilt together 96 Tacking/basting & quilting necessities 104 Tacking/basting the quilt 109 Hand quilting 115 Binding the quilt 122 Labelling & aftercare 128 Patchwork templates 130

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Book SynopsisThousands of people buy a basic sewing machine and never get it out of its box, lacking the confidence to get started and daunted by off-putting manuals. This book will change all that. Sewing machine guru and popular author, Wendy Gardiner, has written a user-friendly guide to using a basic sewing machine, with the elements you would get in a manual, naming parts, showing how to thread up, checking stitching and tension etc, followed by a section building skills as you start using a sewing machine. This is followed by 9 great projects: a Drawstring Bag, an Appliqued Pillow, a Clutch Bag, a Pillow with Piping, Tab-Top Curtains, a Quilted Pot Holder, a Scarf, Apron and a Decorated Towel, all specially designed to build skills such as sewing seams, buttonhole sewing, adding zips, blind hems, quilting, free machine embroidery, using twin needles and making pleats, trims and pockets. There is a glossary of all the important terms, and an excellent trouble-shooting guide.

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Book SynopsisSew a sustainable capsule wardrobe that is tailored to you – and with it, help break the cycle of throw-away fashion. The fashion industry is the second biggest environmental polluter on the planet. Every year, over 350,000 tonnes of clothing is sent to landfill in the UK – just under 14 million tonnes in the US – much of it owing to fast fashion. Furthermore, it’s estimated that many of us wear only 20% of our wardrobe regularly, with the other 80% languishing in our wardrobes unworn, or worse – contributing to those ever-growing landfill figures. We urgently need to find alternative, more sustainable approaches that allow us to have the stylish wardrobes we crave without hurting our planet. The techniques you learn in The Re:Fashion Wardrobe is one of those alternatives. Learn how to alter or create entirely new garments from pre-loved clothes or forgotten fabrics that are not only chic but don't cost the earth. Beginning with advice on equipment, fabrics and how to source your clothes for refashioning, Portia Lawrie will then take you step–by–step through a collection of 11 garments that she has reworked, showing you just how easy it is to refresh or drastically change any piece of clothing you come across. Every garment in the collection can be used to create a modern capsule wardrobe that you can wear throughout the year, and Portia has included advice on how to adjust the garments in the book to make versions suitable for different times of the year. Useful sewing techniques with clear illustrations are included at the back of the book for you to dip into whenever you need them – from measuring and fitting through to garment deconstruction and construction. This is not the “Becky home eccy” refashioning of old, or simply make-do-and-mend either. This is showing that with some time, basic sewing techniques and a dash of creative vision, a wardrobe you’ve made entirely from recycled garments and textiles can be as stylish, edgy and aspirational as anything the high street has to offer.Trade ReviewThe fashion industry is the second biggest environmental polluter on the planet. Every year, over 350,000 tonnes of clothing is sent to landfill in the UK just under 14 million tonnes in the US much of it owing to fast fashion. Furthermore, it’s estimated that many of us wear only 20 per cent of our wardrobe regularly, with the other 80 per cent languishing in our wardrobes unworn, or worse contributing to those ever-growing landfill figures. We urgently need to find alternative, more sustainable approaches that allow us to have the stylish wardrobes we crave without hurting our planet. The techniques you learn in The Re:Fashion Wardrobe by Portia Lawrie is one of those alternatives. Learn how to alter or create entirely new garments from pre-loved clothes or forgotten fabrics that are not only chic but don’t cost the earth. Beginning with advice on equipment, fabrics and how to source your clothes for refashioning, Portia Lawrie will then take you step-by-step through a collection of 11 garments that she’s reworked, showing you just how easy it is to refresh or drastically change any piece of clothing you come across. * Craft Focus, December/ January issue *Lawrie's breezy, can-do attitude is infectious. After all, how hard can it be to repurpose garments (owned or thrifted) to save the planet and pockets? For readers without sewing expertise, Lawrie advises at least getting familiar with the workings of a machine and its terminology. Her idea works: create 11 items of clothing—from boxy tunic shirt to duvet duster coat—that adhere to a color palette for mix-and-matchable potential. Upfront instructions couldn’t be more thorough and are well illustrated too: building the wardrobe, sourcing garments, and working with fabrics, haberdashery, and hardware. Directions for constructing each piece are thorough, filled with step-by-step photographs, tips and tricks (e.g., how to remove jean rivets), opportunities for creativity (like reverse the skirt design and put buttons on the back), and more. There’s even a bit of a photo runway, showing different combinations of garments. Best yet is Lawrie's information on techniques that go beyond pattern templates and her reminders that fitting (yes, self measuring) is critical to buttons and holes, necklines and belts. No excuses! -- Barbara Jacobs * Booklist *Learn how to alter or create entirely new garments from pre-loved clothes or forgotten fabrics. We're taken step-by-step through 11 garments, showing how to refresh or drastically change any item of clothing. With time, basic sewing techniques and creative vision, we can make a wardrobe entirely from recycled garments and textiles that's stylish, edgy and as aspirational as anything the high street offers. * Machine Knitting Monthly, May 2023 *This book is absolutely fantastic. Great ways to redesign old clothes without spending more money. Step-by-step instructions throughout with clear pictures to guide you through the process. I love how there is also a section for combining your makes and a great sewing technique section included. Will certainly be able to update my wardrobe without spending with this book. -- Karen Moore * Customer Review *I have lots of clothes in my wardrobe that I no longer wear so this book seemed the ideal choice to enable me to re fashion them. The book is definitely not for beginners. I think that you would definitely at least some sewing skills to get the best out of it. That being said, it does mean that the clothes you can make are wearable and stylish. It’s not just cutting the sleeves off a T-shirt. It also gives tips on how to identify fabric by doing a burn test. I’ve not seen this anywhere else. It also has chapters on pattern making and fitting. This gives you skills to let your imagination run free. I’m looking at the clothes in my wardrobe with fresh eyes and as well as being an environmentally friendly way of having new clothes it also is a way to save money. -- Yvonne Wilkinson * Customer Review *Table of ContentsAbout me 6 Why re:fashion? 8 Why a capsule wardrobe? 12 Building a capsule wardrobe 14 Sourcing: the secrets of second-hand shopping 18 Haberdashery & hardware 28 Equipment & notions 30 The projects 34 - T-shirt Dress 36 - Sweatshirt Tee 42 - Boxy Tunic Shirt 46 - Cropped Striped Shirt 56 - Robe Jacket 60 - Pieced Linen Tee 66 - Button-front Skirt 78 - Side-striped Trousers 86 - Paperbag Shorts 92 - Refitted Jeans 100 - Duvet Duster Coat 110 Capsule combinations 118 Re:fashion techniques 122 - Making pattern templates 124 - Fitting 126 - Size doesn’t matter: sizing up or down 132 - Deconstruction 134 - Essential machine stitches 138 - Essential hand stitches 140 - Machine darning 141 - Seams 142 - Hemming 147 - Darts 150 - Bias tape 152 - Pockets 153 - Fly zips 156 - Buttonholes & buttons 159 - Neckline finishes 160 - Band finishes 164 - Fabric ties & belts 172 Glossary 174 Acknowledgements 175 Index 176

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Book SynopsisDesigned by best-selling author Judy Gauthier, this versatile template allows you to make the most of your scraps and cut 3 1⁄2 ", 4 1⁄2 " & 5 1⁄2 " squares.

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Book SynopsisUnlock the unlimited possibilities of EVA foam! Whether you are a master-level cosplayer or brand-new, this is the ultimate guide to using EVA foam to make epic costumes, props, and accessories that are out of this world!

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Book SynopsisEdwardian fashions for women were characterized by the S-shaped silhouette, embellished with lace, tucks, ruffles, tassels, frills and flounces. This essential book includes eleven detailed projects, which form a capsule collection of clothing and accessories that might have been worn by an Edwardian governess, a woman travelling on an ocean liner, a campaigning suffragette, or a wife overseeing a busy household in a large country house. It explains making sequences in full and advises in detail on how to give the garments a fine, authentic finish. Eleven detailed projects based on the dress collections at Royal Pavilion & Museums, Brighton & Hove, and Worthing Museum and Art Gallery. Each project includes a detailed description of the original garment, with an accompanying illustration alongside photographs of the original pieces. Scaled patterns are included for all projects with a list of materials and equipment required. Step-by-step instructions are given with information about the original techniques used and close-up photographs of the making process. There are chapters on tools and equipment, fabrics, measurements and sizes, and how to wear Edwardian fashion with ideas on creating new outfits from the featured projects. Finally, there is advice on how to adapt garments to make them suitable for both wealthy, leisured women, and for their poorer counterparts.

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Book SynopsisWhen Lotta Jansdotter steps out in one of her signature outfits, fans always ask, “Did you make that yourself?” Often the answer is, “Yes, and so can you!” With that in mind, the style icon created Lotta Jansdotter’s Everyday Style, a pattern book/inspiration guide anchored by five easy, versatile sewing patterns—skirt, dress, blouse, pants/shorts, and jacket/coat—and highlighted with quick DIY accessories, including hats, bags, scarves and jewellry. Photographed over the course of a year in New York, Tennessee, India, and Sweden and organised by season, Jansdotter shares her sources of inspiration and how she and her friends mix and match her key pieces while working, playing, resting, and travelling. Lotta Jansdotter’s Everyday Style brings Jansdotter’s infectious and sought-after sense of style to new followers and longtime devotees alike.

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Book SynopsisMore Weekend Sewing will ensure that you never run out of quick-to-make designs. Each pattern can be completed in a weekend, with some of them taking only an afternoon, making them perfect for last minute gifts. Trade ReviewThis book will make sure you never run out of quick-to-make designs. Each pattern can be completed in a weekend, with some of the projects taking only an afternoon. * Machine Knitting Monthly *I love these books. There are 25 quick and easy projects that can be completed in less than a day. Filled with perfect gift ideas, the projects are beautifully showcased and the illustrations that accompany the ‘How to’ makes it easy to understand and to follow. The projects are brilliant stash busters, the templates are included and even a beginner can achieve something amazing. I love the layouts of these books, the Annie’s series has a book for almost every craft. Each project has a skill level, so you can decide for yourself where to start. The project notes has handy hints and there is a clock that tells you how long the project will take you. The projects are colourful and fun, the ideas will inspire you create and use your own ideas to make your project unique and personal. -- Tracy Shephard * Postcard Reviews *

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Book SynopsisWho knew just two fat quarters can be used in so many ways? Turn your left-over fabrics or stash of odd fat quarters into 16 beautiful bags! The projects inside range from accessory essentials like an evening clutch and cross-body handbag, to invaluable carriers such as a foldable shopper and lunch tote that will see you through your daily tasks. Start off with an easy-to-follow crash-course on the essential sewing techniques you'll need – from adding a zip to creating patch/slip pockets. Then, jump straight into the projects and get stitching! Each project includes inspiring photography, instructive hand-drawn illustrations and heaps of handy hints and tips from your favourite bag-sewing expert, Debbie von Grabler-Crozier. Ideal for sewists of all abilities, this is the ultimate, affordable, fat quarter-friendly project book that will get you making practical items straight away.Trade ReviewMany of us have a wide selection of fat quarters in our stash Take Two Fat Quarters: Bags & Purses is ideal for helping you put them to use. Although using just two fat quarters does limit the size of the projects Debbie did still manage to fit in a shopping bag, large storage bag and a cross body bag among the projects list. Other projects include a Japanese knot bag, clutch purse, make up case, bag organizer and handy fabric storage bucket among others – 16 projects in total. Take Two Fat Quarters: Bags & Purses starts with some essential bag making tips, with step-by-step colour photos to guide you, plus some tips on choosing your materials and equipment too. Then it’s onto the projects, each of which is preceded with a beautiful photo of the project you will be making. This book does have great photography. The projects walk you through each stage from gathering supplies, to cutting fabrics and assembling your bag, with handy tips scattered throughout the book too. Photos and colour diagrams are provided where needed to help assist you in following the written instructions. Best of all there is a full-size pattern sheet at the back of the book, no fiddling around with trying to resize templates! -- Fiona Pullen * The Sewing Directory *Turn your leftover fabric or stash of odd fat quarters into 16 beautiful bags with Debbie von Grabler-Crozier’s guide, Take Two Fat Quarters: Bags & Purses. From accessory essentials, like an evening clutch and cross-body handbag, to invaluable carriers such as a foldable shopper and lunch tote, this book is perfect for sewists of all abilities and includes all the essential sewing techniques, tips, and tricks you need! * Crafts Beautiful *Turn left-over fabrics into 16 beautiful bags, with projects ranging from an evening clutch to a lunch tote. There are photos, hand-drawn illustrations and heaps of hints and tips. For all abilities, this friendly book will get you making items straight away. * Machine Knitting Monthly *If you've got a penchant for bags and purses, then this handy title is for you. As well as a crash course on all the techniques you need to get started, sewist Debbie von Grabler-Crozier explores how to use two fat quarters to make a total of 16 beautiful carryall. From an evening clutch and a cross body handbag to a practical foldable shopper and lunch tote, there really is a bag for every occasion! * Sew Magazine *Table of ContentsIntroduction 6 What is a fat quarter? 7 Materials 8 Usual sewing needs 10 Techniques Finishing seams and lining 14, Clipping and notching 15, Boxing bag corners 16, Using glue in bag making 17, Zips 18, Patch/slip pockets 22, Adding binding 23 The Projects Storage Bag 26, Fabric Bucket 30, Foldaway Shopper 34, Japanese Knot Bag 40, Zipped Pouch 44, Clutch Purse 48, Bag Organizer 52, Tablet Case 56, Tool Trug 60, Make-up Case 64, Wine Bottle Tote 70, Paperbag-style Lunch Bag 74, Pencil Case 78, Tiny Tote 82, Cross-body Bag 86, Minimalist's Phone Bag 92 Index 96

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Book SynopsisSewing Soft Books is a super simple guide to creating engaging and interactive activity books for young children that encourage fine motor skills and learning through play. Following easy and clear instructions, beautiful illustrations, and various book page patterns – five for babies and five for toddlers – you can mix, match, and make with buckles, buttons, secret doors, flaps and zips. Whether a novice or an expert, you'll find Sewing Soft Books the perfect source of inspiration and guidance.

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Book SynopsisInspired by painted and wood quilt blocks that adorn barns, author Shelley Cavanna shares 20 starry and spectacular blocks and seven quilt designs, including the beloved Barn Star Sampler quilt.

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Book SynopsisA pick-your-own-style quilt book featuring 30+ quilt blocks, 8 quilt top layout formulas, and all the math done for you so you can focus on creating your own design!In this design-it-yourself quilt book, the quilter is in the driver’s seat, empowering you to decide what size, layout, and combinations of blocks you want to use to create your own one-of-a-kind quilt. Unlike a traditional book of quilt patterns, this book does not prescribe a design. Instead, Quilting Adventures gives you a range of block options that all work together so that you can pick and choose and mix and match those blocks to create your own unique design. The book encourages and supports you, the quilter, as you explore designing your own pattern, providing all the tedious legwork (a.k.a. the math) so that you can focus on creating a final design that is all your own. In addition there will also be a suite of pre-designed patterns as inspiration for anyone who prefers a little extra structure to start. Quilting Adventures includes:• 30+ modern quilt block designs• 8 quilt top layout formulas• 9 patterns that you can follow or use to help inspire your own design• All the math & worksheets you need to get started• Instructions that are easy to follow for beginners and advanced beginnersWhether you're a beginning quilter or an experienced maker looking for a fun, new challenge, Quilting Adventures will give you the confidence to create beautiful, modern quilts that are uniquely your own.Trade Review"Amanda shares her journey into quilting and some of her challenges, which will connect with the reader. This book is ideal and should be used as a part of your process because it provides all that you need to create your quilt." —Vernita Naylor for Readers' Favorite"Quilting Adventures is not your average quilt block book. Amanda provides readers with the creative freedom and confidence to think outside of the block (pun intended), and design and make their own, one-of-a-kind quilt top compositions. The clear, step-by-step instructions and quilt math all worked out makes this the perfect book for those that are feeling adventurous and thinking of dipping their toes into quilt design, and for seasoned quilters and designers that want to put something unique effortlessly."–Wendy Chow, author of Urban Quilting

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Book SynopsisLearn the art of visible mending—a joyful, meditative, and restorative practice—to repair the clothes and belongings you love! Mending Life, a beautiful modern sewing and mending guide with vibrant, full-color illustrations woven throughout, encourages us to break free from the fast fashion industry by repairing our clothes rather than discarding them. Along with DIY and how-to illustrations and tutorials, you’ll find heartfelt stories by authors Nina and Sonya Montenegro (creators of the popular @TheFarWoods) that encourage you to change your consumption habits, celebrate a sustainable, intentional lifestyle, demonstrate mending as a powerful act that not only strengthens the object we are repairing, but ourselves as well. Beginners and Seasoned Sewers will find:Basic Mending Skills - how to thread a needle, how to tie knots, and basic stitches Sashiko - a striking Japanese hand-sewing technique for reinforcement and decoration Darning - plain weave, swiss weave, crocheted patch, knitted patch, and needle-felted patch Patching - the best three ways to patch holes how-to guide Mending Tutorials by Item - down jackets, shirt cuffs, and linen Other Common Repairs - snags, buttons, belt loops, leggings, pant pockets, and more Sewing Beyond Mending - hemming pants, taking garments in, and adding pockets Extend the life of your favorite clothes and beloved household items with mending with this timeless and practical guide to cherishing and caring for our belongings.Trade ReviewSelected by Powell's Books "30 Books We Can't Wait to Read in 2020"“In this thoughtful and gorgeously illustrated book, Nina and Sonya Montenegro remind us what our grandmothers taught us: that mending is a radical exercise, both in its creative play and in its role in fighting consumerism and waste. For anyone who yearns to mend but needs helpful advice, this is the coziest book you’ll ever own.”—Lisa Congdon, artist and author“[Mending Life] positions making things by hand as a path to a less consumerist, more centered, maybe even more spiritual existence.”—Publishers Weekly“Mending Life is equal parts illustrated textile repair primer and gentle prescription for fixing our fraught relationships with the planet and each other.”—Yes! Magazine“With a guiding mantra that 'There’s nothing broken that can’t be fixed,' this very accessible guide will encourage readers to look with hopeful possibility at their well-worn, well-loved clothes.”—Booklist “This powerful book, full of care and gratitude, will inspire you to give new love and attention to the objects in your wardrobe. But it will also awaken you, challenging you to rethink your outlook on the world and your role in it.”—Anna Brones, author of Fika and Live Lagom"A book to use long after the first reading. Like the garments the authors so carefully tend to, these pages are sure to take on the stains of well-worn, well-loved readings."—Library Journal“Mending Life walks newbie sewers through the process of mending their clothing in visible, stylish ways.” —Portland Monthly “It is so refreshing to read through this beautifully organized and illustrated book. It will inspire you to take the time to engage with your second skin in a manner that was almost lost to the tsunami of fast fashion. Regenerating your wardrobe with your own two hands is an act that gives the planet an opportunity to rest and repair itself." —Rebecca Burgess, founder of Fibershed and author of Fibershed and Harvesting Color “This is a heartwarming tribute to generations before us as much as it is a practical and mindful toolkit for learning to repair our belongings. You’ll be well equipped to tackle any snag, hole, or frayed end. A patch we mend into our favorite jeans becomes a thoughtful story about what we value. This is a book to treasure.” —Andrea Marie Sanders, meditation teacher and artist“Mending Life invites us back into real care and love for the material world, and by extension, all the worlds of our experience.” —Charles Eisenstein, author of Sacred Economics, The More Beautiful World Our Hearts Know Is Possible, and Climate—A New Story

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