isew.co.uk - Book Reviews

We’ve picked some great books to review! The title reviewed this month is: How to Use, Adapt and Design Sewing Patterns by Lee Hollahan.

All have been reviewed by Ruth Cox for Sewing World magazine. Each month, we will update the reviews, adding new titles as they are published.

It’s unusual to find a book dedicated purely to the ‘pattern’ aspect of sewing and this useful guide will help stitchers make the most of purchased patterns and serve as a springboard for their own creative ideas. Presented in a logical sequence it clarifies the information contained in pattern sheets and on envelopes with regard to size, fit, fabric selection and suitability for different figure types. Personal measurement charts are included along with a table showing standard ‘ease’ added by the major pattern companies. The next stage progresses on to more advanced customisation and the book comes complete with scaled down blocks for skirts, bodices and sleeves in UK sizes 8-20 that the reader can use as the basis for flat pattern cutting. Step-by-step instructions show how to address common fitting problems and use the blocks to create a variety of sleeves, skirts, dresses, collars, pockets and facings. A final chapter on core sewing techniques make this guide suitable for students and home sewers alike.

Subtitled ‘Patternmaking Simplified’ this great title is the perfect introduction to pattern drafting for those looking to create a wardrobe of modern, casual garments that fit, flatter and have the potential for endless customisation. Focusing on skirts, T-shirts, blouses, trousers and dresses, the author gently guides the reader through each step of the process from taking measurements and initial design through to creating a usable pattern and sewing together the finished garment. Each chapter builds on the skills learnt in previous ones so that the reader progresses from a simple A-line skirt to more complex trouser designs along with variations that demonstrate how to adjust ease, add seam-lines and create original new patterns. Once the basics have been learned there is a more detailed chapter on customising, fitting and grading patterns with techniques for further reshaping and adding details such as gathers, yokes and pockets.

Priced at £17.99 (paperback)
Published by Potter Craft - order a copy by contacting GMC Publications on T: 01273 488005.

Grab the bag of fabric scraps along with this book for a wealth of ideas for embellishing handmade items with applique and trims to add that truly personal touch. A full size paper pattern and 20 stylish projects are included for fashion and home decor items that combine hand and machine stitching. Grouped into three sections, the book includes cushions and quilts for the home, bags and garments for Mum plus gifts and nursery items for babies and children. After a useful introductory section on tools and equipment, the book progresses to the projects complete with step-by-step instructions, diagrams, templates and lots of additional tips. A number of different applique techniques are used and the author includes a chapter on several popular methods including raw edge, turned-edge and reverse applique Many of the projects are stitched by machine and embellished with hand embroidery and a library of stitches is also given.

Published by Interweave and available from Search Press, T: 01892 510850.
Priced at £17.99.

Compendium of Sewing Techniques
Lorna Knight
ISBN 9781844485253

Lorna Knight's latest publication is bursting with over 250 sewing tips, tricks and techniques that are relevant to all types of stitching including fashion, home decor and embellishment. It's an easy book to dip into as everything is laid out in categories starting with tools and equipment, followed by a guide to fabric and threads. The stitch section covers both hand and machine stitching and progresses on to sewing techniques including pleats, hems, linings, interfacings and pockets. Those who love to embellish will find plenty of inspiration in the 'decorating fabrics' section with ideas for couching, quilting, applique, ribbon embroidery and beading plus techniques for making fabric flowers, tassels and fringes. The book includes an assortment of quick and easy projects plus lots of troubleshooting tips for when things don't quite go to plan.

Priced at £11.99
Published in paperback and available from Search Press and is available from good bookshops or click on Amazon icon below.

The Sewing Bible - Curtains
Series Editor – Wendy Gardiner
ISBN 9780715330418

Freshen up home décor this Spring with some stylish new curtains that are easy to make and guaranteed to give any room an instant lift. Beautifully presented throughout with close up photos and clear diagrams - this practical guide by Sewing World Editor Wendy Gardiner demonstrates how to achieve professional results and create a range of window treatments to suit any home. 12 projects by leading designers show a variety of styles ranging from simple cafe curtains through to designs for difficult shaped windows plus luxurious styles with beading and feather trims. All aspects of curtain making are covered with guidance on measuring up, choosing headers, linings, fabrics and hardware. Curtain accessories in the way of valances, tiebacks, swags and jabots are also included to add the perfect finishing touch. A useful chapter on basic techniques will ensure that even novice sewers can achieve successful results.

Priced at £14.99
Published by David & Charles in paperback and is available from good bookshops or click on Amazon icon below.

This is an ideal book for trendy teens and twenty-somethings looking to learn to sew fashion garments and accessories. Complete with 15 stylish projects, it demonstrates how to transform a simple piece of fabric into skirts, tops, dresses, bags, belts and bikinis. The designs provide a nice combination of classic styles such as a simple camisole together with more contemporary designs such as the cute button flap skirt or ruffled collar, making it a practical guide to creating a modern day wardrobe. Aimed at complete beginners, it includes useful information on fabric selection along with techniques for French seams, concealed zips and bound edges plus general sewing methods for garment construction that would be used over and again. Scaled down patterns are included for sizes 8-18. Beautifully photographed throughout and with clear step-by-step instructions, it makes a great introduction to fashion sewing with garments that are not only quick and easy to make but also simple to fit and beautifully finished.

Complete Leatherwork
Katherine Pogson
ISBN 9781843404842

Stitch up stylish fashion accessories and home décor items in luxury leather with this easy to use guide that is both practical and inspiring. Aimed at crafters of all levels of expertise, it provides the essential techniques for working with leather along with 22 projects that are designed to build skills along the way. Readers will learn about the necessary tools, waxes, dyes and fittings before progressing on to techniques for cutting, punching, stitching and finishing leather. There’s a great assortment of projects for all levels of expertise from simple picture frames, purses and boxes through to more advanced designs for bags, belts and slippers. There are also some interesting projects using moulded leather to form shaped bowls and corsages plus a number of designs using decorative studs and rivets to ensure the reader can practise all the basic skills needed to progress to any type of leatherwork project. Close-up photos and clear instructions are used throughout making this a very straightforward guide to follow whilst a handy resource section provides a wealth of information regarding UK suppliers of materials and equipment.

Priced at £16.99 (hardback)
Published by Collins & Brown and distributed by Anova Books and also available from Amazon – just click box below

Weekend Sewing
Heather Ross
ISBN 9781584796756

In today’s busy world it’s nice to have a reminder about how important it is to find some relaxing leisure time to pursue our favourite hobby. This beautifully presented book contains over 40 projects that are pretty, practical and easy to complete in just a few hours of sewing time. These range from tableware, travel bags and slippers to easy garments including dresses, pyjamas and simple separates for adults and children. There’s a lovely country feel to the collection making them an ideal choice for vintage cottons and linens or the latest retro prints. Each project is fully illustrated and comes with detailed instructions, whilst full-sized traceable patterns are also included with the book.

Aimed at the beginner and intermediate sewer, the book also includes a chapter on sewing basics covering selecting a machine, tracing and cutting out a pattern plus techniques for seams, hems and buttonholes. As weekends are also a good time for socialising, the author has added a few tasty recipes that can be bubbling away while we chat and sew with like-minded friends.

Priced at £14.99
Published by Stewart, Tabori & Chang and available from Amazon Books.

Sewing Green
Betz White
ISBN 9781584797586

This timely book is the perfect choice for conscientious stitchers and shows just how compatible sewing is with a truly green lifestyle. There are 25 super projects included for fashion and home items made using either repurposed or eco-friendly organic/sustainable fabrics. There’s plenty of useful information about choosing and using materials along with some innovative ideas for more unusual products such as packaging. The projects are bright and modern with cheerful designs for cushions, throws, aprons, toys, totes and simple garments. A full size paper pattern is included with the book and detailed instructions plus handy tips relating to the materials used accompany each project. It also makes for an interesting read, as along the way there are plenty of interesting facts and profiles about leaders in the world of eco-sewing plus a useful list of websites and organisations. As most sewers are aware, our favourite hobby has a long tradition in recycling and the good work of our ancestors is also acknowledged.

Priced at £14.99
Published by Stewart, Tabori & Chang and available from Amazon Books.

Newly published in paperback this handy reference book is an essential for new sewers and useful for those in need of a quick ‘refresher’. Presented as a step-by-step photo guide it covers the basics of selecting the relevant materials such as fabric, thread, and interfacing, along with handy tools and equipment. For those interested in fashion sewing a guide to working with commercial patterns is also included. Techniques range from the basic construction of garments and home furnishing items through to decorative techniques and finishing touches. Twelve projects are included with increasing levels of difficulty so that the reader can practise each stage and progressively improve their skills. Projects include bags, kimonos, cushions, curtains and children’s costumes. Sewing techniques include stitching seams, hems, buttonholes and zippers, with easy instructions for adding piping, bias binding, appliqué and trims. A handy troubleshooting section will help resolve any problems and guarantee success.

Priced at £9.99
Published by Apple Press and available from Amazon Books online (just click on the link).

Vintage Fashion – Collecting and Wearing Designer Classics
Foreword by Zandra Rhodes
ISBN 1844422682

Fashion fans will love this delightful book detailing the most inspiring designs of the last decade, all of which are still highly covetable today. Set in a historical context, the book traces the key pieces which epitomised the period in which they were worn and represented the finest skills and artistic expression of the designers of their day. Decade by decade the book examines the signature cuts, the silhouettes, fabrics and decoration that have survived the whims of fashion to become ‘classics’ of their era. On a practical level, the authors show how to identify genuine vintage garments and also how to recreate the authentic look. From the earliest couture houses of Worth, Schiaparelli and Channel, through to Dior, Mary Quant and Issey Miyake, the book not only illustrates the most beautiful garments worn by society’s elite, but also documents the impact they had on popular street fashion. It’s a fascinating read, with beautifully photographed garments and is a lovely book for anyone who loves sewing, collecting or wearing vintage fashions.

Priced at £20 in hardback
Published by Carlton and available from Amazon Books online (just click on the link).

These reviews are written by Ruth Cox for Sewing World magazine, a monthly magazine published in the UK for anyone interested in sewing with a sewing machine. For further details of Sewing World magazine, visit: www.sewingworldmagazine.com or tel: 01684 588500.



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	Book Reviews We’ve picked some great books to review! The title reviewed this month is: How to Use, Adapt and Design Sewing Patterns by Lee Hollahan. All have been reviewed by Ruth Cox for Sewing World magazine. Each month, we will update the reviews, adding new titles as they are published. How to Use, Adapt and Design Sewing Patterns Lee Hollahan ISBN 9781408120002 It’s unusual to find a book dedicated purely to the ‘pattern’ aspect of sewing and this useful guide will help stitchers make the most of purchased patterns and serve as a springboard for their own creative ideas. Presented in a logical sequence it clarifies the information contained in pattern sheets and on envelopes with regard to size, fit, fabric selection and suitability for different figure types. Personal measurement charts are included along with a table showing standard ‘ease’ added by the major pattern companies. The next stage progresses on to more advanced customisation and the book comes complete with scaled down blocks for skirts, bodices and sleeves in UK sizes 8-20 that the reader can use as the basis for flat pattern cutting. Step-by-step instructions show how to address common fitting problems and use the blocks to create a variety of sleeves, skirts, dresses, collars, pockets and facings. A final chapter on core sewing techniques make this guide suitable for students and home sewers alike. Priced at £13.49 Published by A&C Black and available from all good book shops. Design-It-Yourself Clothes Cal Patch ISBN 9780307451392 Subtitled ‘Patternmaking Simplified’ this great title is the perfect introduction to pattern drafting for those looking to create a wardrobe of modern, casual garments that fit, flatter and have the potential for endless customisation. Focusing on skirts, T-shirts, blouses, trousers and dresses, the author gently guides the reader through each step of the process from taking measurements and initial design through to creating a usable pattern and sewing together the finished garment. Each chapter builds on the skills learnt in previous ones so that the reader progresses from a simple A-line skirt to more complex trouser designs along with variations that demonstrate how to adjust ease, add seam-lines and create original new patterns. Once the basics have been learned there is a more detailed chapter on customising, fitting and grading patterns with techniques for further reshaping and adding details such as gathers, yokes and pockets. Priced at £17.99 (paperback) Published by Potter Craft - order a copy by contacting GMC Publications on T: 01273 488005. Sew Liberated Meg McElwee ISBN 9781596681613 Grab the bag of fabric scraps along with this book for a wealth of ideas for embellishing handmade items with applique and trims to add that truly personal touch. A full size paper pattern and 20 stylish projects are included for fashion and home decor items that combine hand and machine stitching. Grouped into three sections, the book includes cushions and quilts for the home, bags and garments for Mum plus gifts and nursery items for babies and children. After a useful introductory section on tools and equipment, the book progresses to the projects complete with step-by-step instructions, diagrams, templates and lots of additional tips. A number of different applique techniques are used and the author includes a chapter on several popular methods including raw edge, turned-edge and reverse applique Many of the projects are stitched by machine and embellished with hand embroidery and a library of stitches is also given. Published by Interweave and available from Search Press, T: 01892 510850. Priced at £17.99. Compendium of Sewing Techniques Lorna Knight ISBN 9781844485253 Lorna Knight's latest publication is bursting with over 250 sewing tips, tricks and techniques that are relevant to all types of stitching including fashion, home decor and embellishment. It's an easy book to dip into as everything is laid out in categories starting with tools and equipment, followed by a guide to fabric and threads. The stitch section covers both hand and machine stitching and progresses on to sewing techniques including pleats, hems, linings, interfacings and pockets. Those who love to embellish will find plenty of inspiration in the 'decorating fabrics' section with ideas for couching, quilting, applique, ribbon embroidery and beading plus techniques for making fabric flowers, tassels and fringes. The book includes an assortment of quick and easy projects plus lots of troubleshooting tips for when things don't quite go to plan. Priced at £11.99 Published in paperback and available from Search Press and is available from good bookshops or click on Amazon icon below. The Sewing Bible - Curtains Series Editor – Wendy Gardiner ISBN 9780715330418 Freshen up home décor this Spring with some stylish new curtains that are easy to make and guaranteed to give any room an instant lift. Beautifully presented throughout with close up photos and clear diagrams - this practical guide by Sewing World Editor Wendy Gardiner demonstrates how to achieve professional results and create a range of window treatments to suit any home. 12 projects by leading designers show a variety of styles ranging from simple cafe curtains through to designs for difficult shaped windows plus luxurious styles with beading and feather trims. All aspects of curtain making are covered with guidance on measuring up, choosing headers, linings, fabrics and hardware. Curtain accessories in the way of valances, tiebacks, swags and jabots are also included to add the perfect finishing touch. A useful chapter on basic techniques will ensure that even novice sewers can achieve successful results. Priced at £14.99 Published by David & Charles in paperback and is available from good bookshops or click on Amazon icon below. One Piece of Fabric Lena Santana ISBN 9781843405474 This is an ideal book for trendy teens and twenty-somethings looking to learn to sew fashion garments and accessories. Complete with 15 stylish projects, it demonstrates how to transform a simple piece of fabric into skirts, tops, dresses, bags, belts and bikinis. The designs provide a nice combination of classic styles such as a simple camisole together with more contemporary designs such as the cute button flap skirt or ruffled collar, making it a practical guide to creating a modern day wardrobe. Aimed at complete beginners, it includes useful information on fabric selection along with techniques for French seams, concealed zips and bound edges plus general sewing methods for garment construction that would be used over and again. Scaled down patterns are included for sizes 8-18. Beautifully photographed throughout and with clear step-by-step instructions, it makes a great introduction to fashion sewing with garments that are not only quick and easy to make but also simple to fit and beautifully finished. Priced at £11.99 Published by Collins & Brown and also available from Amazon – just click box below Complete Leatherwork Katherine Pogson ISBN 9781843404842 Stitch up stylish fashion accessories and home décor items in luxury leather with this easy to use guide that is both practical and inspiring. Aimed at crafters of all levels of expertise, it provides the essential techniques for working with leather along with 22 projects that are designed to build skills along the way. Readers will learn about the necessary tools, waxes, dyes and fittings before progressing on to techniques for cutting, punching, stitching and finishing leather. There’s a great assortment of projects for all levels of expertise from simple picture frames, purses and boxes through to more advanced designs for bags, belts and slippers. There are also some interesting projects using moulded leather to form shaped bowls and corsages plus a number of designs using decorative studs and rivets to ensure the reader can practise all the basic skills needed to progress to any type of leatherwork project. Close-up photos and clear instructions are used throughout making this a very straightforward guide to follow whilst a handy resource section provides a wealth of information regarding UK suppliers of materials and equipment. *Priced at £16.99 (hardback)* *Published by Collins & Brown and distributed by Anova Books and* also available from Amazon – just click box below Weekend Sewing Heather Ross ISBN 9781584796756 In today’s busy world it’s nice to have a reminder about how important it is to find some relaxing leisure time to pursue our favourite hobby. This beautifully presented book contains over 40 projects that are pretty, practical and easy to complete in just a few hours of sewing time. These range from tableware, travel bags and slippers to easy garments including dresses, pyjamas and simple separates for adults and children. There’s a lovely country feel to the collection making them an ideal choice for vintage cottons and linens or the latest retro prints. Each project is fully illustrated and comes with detailed instructions, whilst full-sized traceable patterns are also included with the book. Aimed at the beginner and intermediate sewer, the book also includes a chapter on sewing basics covering selecting a machine, tracing and cutting out a pattern plus techniques for seams, hems and buttonholes. As weekends are also a good time for socialising, the author has added a few tasty recipes that can be bubbling away while we chat and sew with like-minded friends. Priced at £14.99 Published by Stewart, Tabori & Chang and available from Amazon Books. Sewing Green Betz White ISBN 9781584797586 This timely book is the perfect choice for conscientious stitchers and shows just how compatible sewing is with a truly green lifestyle. There are 25 super projects included for fashion and home items made using either repurposed or eco-friendly organic/sustainable fabrics. There’s plenty of useful information about choosing and using materials along with some innovative ideas for more unusual products such as packaging. The projects are bright and modern with cheerful designs for cushions, throws, aprons, toys, totes and simple garments. A full size paper pattern is included with the book and detailed instructions plus handy tips relating to the materials used accompany each project. It also makes for an interesting read, as along the way there are plenty of interesting facts and profiles about leaders in the world of eco-sewing plus a useful list of websites and organisations. As most sewers are aware, our favourite hobby has a long tradition in recycling and the good work of our ancestors is also acknowledged. Priced at £14.99 Published by Stewart, Tabori & Chang and available from Amazon Books. Start Sewing Wendy Gardiner ISBN 9781845432027 Newly published in paperback this handy reference book is an essential for new sewers and useful for those in need of a quick ‘refresher’. Presented as a step-by-step photo guide it covers the basics of selecting the relevant materials such as fabric, thread, and interfacing, along with handy tools and equipment. For those interested in fashion sewing a guide to working with commercial patterns is also included. Techniques range from the basic construction of garments and home furnishing items through to decorative techniques and finishing touches. Twelve projects are included with increasing levels of difficulty so that the reader can practise each stage and progressively improve their skills. Projects include bags, kimonos, cushions, curtains and children’s costumes. Sewing techniques include stitching seams, hems, buttonholes and zippers, with easy instructions for adding piping, bias binding, appliqué and trims. A handy troubleshooting section will help resolve any problems and guarantee success. Priced at £9.99 Published by Apple Press and available from Amazon Books online (just click on the link). Available from: Amazon.co.uk Vintage Fashion – Collecting and Wearing Designer Classics Foreword by Zandra Rhodes ISBN 1844422682 Fashion fans will love this delightful book detailing the most inspiring designs of the last decade, all of which are still highly covetable today. Set in a historical context, the book traces the key pieces which epitomised the period in which they were worn and represented the finest skills and artistic expression of the designers of their day. Decade by decade the book examines the signature cuts, the silhouettes, fabrics and decoration that have survived the whims of fashion to become ‘classics’ of their era. On a practical level, the authors show how to identify genuine vintage garments and also how to recreate the authentic look. From the earliest couture houses of Worth, Schiaparelli and Channel, through to Dior, Mary Quant and Issey Miyake, the book not only illustrates the most beautiful garments worn by society’s elite, but also documents the impact they had on popular street fashion. It’s a fascinating read, with beautifully photographed garments and is a lovely book for anyone who loves sewing, collecting or wearing vintage fashions. Priced at £20 in hardback Published by Carlton and available from Amazon Books online (just click on the link). Available from: Amazon.co.uk These reviews are written by Ruth Cox for Sewing World magazine, a monthly magazine published in the UK for anyone interested in sewing with a sewing machine. For further details of Sewing World magazine, visit: www.sewingworldmagazine.com or tel: 01684 588500.	Search Search Archive Search by Category:

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