Book Review Stitch 'n Bitch The Knitter's Handbook

photo from Amazon

                                                                                                                                                                                  

Chapter One

Take Back The Knit

Why Young Women are Taking Up Knitting Once More

My Craft Family

I knit, Therefore I Am 

The New Knitting Craze

A Stitch in Time, A Brief History of Knitting

Chapter Two

What a Girl Wants, What a Girl Needs

Tools of the Trade

Everything you Need to Know About Yarn

Yarn Weights

Tools of the Trade

The Long and Short of Needles

How to Read a Yarn Label

Making a Centre Pull Ball

Managing Your Stash

Chapter Three

The Knitty Gritty

Learning to Cast ON, Bind Off and Knit

Casting on Using Double Cast On Method

Knitting in both English and Continental Styles

Yarn Holds

Binding Off Your Work

Starting a New Ball

Changing Colour

Making Stripes

Weaving in Yarn Ends

Beginners Basic 1

Go Go Garter Stitch Scarf

Chapter Four

Purl, Too

Learning to Purl and Make Simple Stitch Patterns

Purling in Both English and Continental Styles

How To Make Stockinette, Rib and Seed Stitch

How to Tell weather to Knit or Purl

Making Stitch Designs

Reading Charts

Edge Stitches

Binding Off in Pattern

Using Circular and Double Pointed Needles

Beginner's Basic 11 Ribbed for Her Pleasure Scarf

Chapter Five

Leaning to Increase and Decrease

How to increase

The Bar Increase

The Making One Increase

The Yarn Over

Decreasing Stitches

Knit Two Together

Slip, Slip, Knit (SSK) and Slip, Knit, Pass Slipped Stitch Over (SKP)

Single And Cable Cast On

Beginners Basic 111

Kitschy Kerchief

The Rule of Engagement What Not to Knit for Your Boyfriend

Chapter Six

Finishing School

Learning to Sew Seams, Pick Up Stitches and Block Your Work

Joining Knit Pieces Together

Sewing Side Seams Using Mattress Stitch and Backstitch

Connecting the Tops of Knit Pieces

Joining a Top to a Side edge

Fake grafting

The Kitchener Stitch

The Three Needle Bind Off

Learning to Pick Up Stitches

Blocking for Blockheads

Never Look a Gift Hat in the Mouth The Fine Art of Knitting for Others

Chapter Seven

Getting Knitty with it

Fancy Things to Do with Needles and Yarn

Bells and Whistles, Fringes, Tassels, Pom poms

How To Make Blanket and Duplicate Stitches

Making Clothes

Advanced Colour Knitting

Intarsia

fair Isle

How to Make a Crochet Chain

Single Crochet

Crab Stitch

I-Cord

In the Loop Crochet Tips

Chapter Eight

The Stitch Doctor's Guide to Fixing Mistakes

Picking Up Dropped Knit and Purl Stitches

Changing Purls into Knits and Vice Versa

Fixing Extra Stitches

Unknitting One Stitch At a Time

Unravelling Rows of Knitting

Tightening Saggy Stitches

Adding Length to an Unintentional Crop Top

Frogging your Work

Quick Fixin' Tricks

Chapter Nine

A Guide to the Wonderful World of Knitters

Starting Your Own Stitch 'n Bitch

Virtual Knitting Communities

The Knit List

On-line Knitting Blogs

Free Knitting Patterns

Computer Programs for Knitters

Real Life Knitting Organizations

The Best Knitting Books

Magazines for Knitters

A Field Guide to Knitters

How to Read Knitting Patters

Abbreviations

Chapter Ten

Scarves and Hats

Coney Island Fireworks Scarf

Windy City Scarf

Alien Illusion Scarf

Hot Head

Sparkle Hat

Adults Only Devil Hat and Official Kittyville Hat

Loopy Velez Cowl

Chapter Eleven

Bags

Chinese Charm Bag

Zeeby's Bag

Meema'a Felted

Marsupial Tote

Punk Rock Backpack

Cricket's Technicolour

Techno Cozy

Fluffy Cuff Mittens

Pippi Knee stockings

Powerful Wrist

Protection

Chapter Twelve

Baby Stuff

Big Bad Baby Blanket

Umbilical Cord Hat

Chapter Thirteen

Sweaters

Skully

Under the Hoodie

The Go Everywhere, Go With Everything Cardigan

To Dye For

Cape Mod

Big Sack Sweater

Pin-up Queen

The Manly Sweater

Cowl and Howl Set

Peppermint Twist

Chapter Fourteen

Summer Stuff

Tank Girl 

Little Black Top

Queen of Hearts and wonder Woman Bikinis

Chapter Fifteen

Princess Snowball

Cat Bed

Chapter Sixteen

DIY Tote Bag and Iron on Patch

Roll Your Own Needle Case

Circular Knitting Needle Holder

Resources and Yarn

Stores

Index

                                                                                                                                           

Stitch n Bitch The Knitters Handbook is available from Amazon

Disclosure: I buy sewing books from on-line shops with my own money, I am not being paid for writing this review. All my reviews are honest and on things that I genuinely love and would recommend to my readers. 

Book Review 400 Knitting Stitches

photo from Amazon

Whether you're a beginning knitter or advanced, whether your tastes range from simple knit-purl stitching to fancy Daisy or Moroccan screen, a dictionary of stitch patterns is indispensable! 
 
Young knitters, old knitters, hip knitters, traditional knitters: they all enjoy different styles. But every knitter from age 5 to 95 needs a good dictionary of stitches.  400 Knitting Stitches is a comprehensive guide that invites knitters to experiment with a variety of new stitch combinations. The book is conveniently divided into eight categories: knit-purl, crossed and cables, slipped, lacy,double, twisted, cast-off, and fancy stitches.  Making a romantic lacy wrap or a classic cable sweater? Whatever your style, there's a stitch in here for you. 
 
Each of the 400-plus featured stitches is accompanied by easy-to-follow written and charted instructions,as well as a full-color photograph. A section on basic knitting information and techniques at the front of the book makes this volume even more invaluable. 

From advanced knitters experimenting with their own designs to beginners looking for clear instruction and explanation, 400 Knitting Stitches is an essential reference for knitters of all kinds.

                                                                                                                

Chapter One

Knitting Basics

Chapter Two

Knit Purl Stitches

Chapter Three

Crossed Stitches and Cables

Chapter Four

Slipped Stitches

Chapter Five

Lacy Stitches

Chapter Six

Double Stitches

Chapter Seven

Twisted Stitches

Chapter Eight

Cast Off Stitches

Chapter Nine

Fancy Stitches

Chapter Ten

Symbols

                                                                                                          

400 Knitting Stitches is available from Amazon

Disclosure: I buy sewing books from on-line shops with my own money, I am not being paid for writing this review. All my reviews are honest and on things that I genuinely love and would recommend to my readers. 

Book Review Crochet Me

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Join the crochet revolution! Young designers everywhere are making crochet their own with hip, edgy, stylish designs that are toppling the frumpy, uncool image of the craft. Crochet Me: Designs to Fuel the Crochet Revolution by Kim Werker, editor of Interweave Crochet magazine and founder of the online community CrochetMe.com, offers 18 designs from emerging crochet artists certain to get those hooks moving. How did the crochet renaissance get started? Read short essays about experimenting with crochet to empower readers to take design risks. The projects run the spectrum from crochet jewelry to thigh-high stockings, retro bags, scarves, sweaters, shrugs, camis, home decor objects, and more. Projects explore color, texture, design, embellishment, and how to customize patterns to fit personal style. Basic crochet techniques will be covered along with tutorials on sizing, design, and special techniques. Up-and-coming designers are profiled throughout the book to give an entertaining and inspiring insight into this new generation of crocheters - what inspires them, how they find community with other crocheters, and creative ideas for breaking the rules and representing their individual crochet style. This book will empower everyone to start their own crochet revolution. This is crochet for the people!

                                                                                                                               

Contents
Patterns
BabyDoll Dress
Icelandic Turtleneck
Victorian Shrug and Wrap
Mini Wrap Skirt
Messenger Bag
I'm A Convert Sweater
Style Moderne Jewelry
Mesmerize Sweater
Shades of Plaid Scarves
Leaves Sweater
Thigh Highs
Comfy Cardi
Five O'Clock Tank
Cocoon Bag
Variations Basket
Circle Rug
Doug and Gordo Dolls
                                                                                                                       

Crochet Me is available from Amazon

Disclosure: I buy sewing books from on-line shops with my own money, I am not being paid for writing this review. All my reviews are honest and on things that I genuinely love and would recommend to my readers. 

Book Review 200 Crochet Tips, Techniques and Trade Secrets

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The basics of crochet are very quick to master, but feeling confident about how to move beyond the basics and create a stylish, professional finish for all your crochet projects is a common dilemma faced by many crocheters. Presented in an easy-to-use format arranged by topic and cross-referenced, so you can dip in and out as needed for advice, this book offers hundreds of answers, fixes, insider tips, and secrets to help you along the way.

Divided into sections that cover a multitude of topics such as: choosing the right hook for you, putting gauge measurements to work, fool-proof ways of turning, quick fixes for uneven edges, shaping with increases and decreases, how to make neat corners, marking essentials, dealing with yarn ends, choosing the right seam and even how to look after crochet garments, 200 Crochet Tips, Techniques & Trade Secrets contains a wealth of technical knowledge and handy tips. Aimed at all crocheters, from the beginner to the more experienced, this book is a valuable addition to any craft library.

                                                                                                                   

Chapter One

Hooks, Tools and Yarns

Choosing and Holding a Hook

Essential Tool Kit

Looking After Hooks

Which Yarn?

Changing Yarn

Chapter Two

Patterns and Charts

Understanding Crochet Patterns

Reading Symbol Charts

Mixing and Matching Stitch Patterns

Working From a Colour Block Chart

Working from a Filet Crochet Chart

Chapter Three

All About Gauge

Evaluating Drape

Garment Shapes

Getting a Good Fit From a Ready Made Pattern

Design Basics

Designing Scarves

Designing Shawls and Wraps

Chapter Four

Crochet Techniques

Working a Foundation Chain

Working Basic Stitches

Turning and Starting Chains

Understanding Stitch Patterns, Multiples and Repeats

Joining in New Yarn

Joining Lengths of Yarn

Working Filet Crochet

Working Lace Stitches
Working Shells and Fans
Working Clusters
Changing Scale
Working Chevron Patterns
Working Puff Stitches
Working Popcorns
Working Bobbles
Adding Texture with Post and Spike Stitches
Working Crossed Stitches
Shaping
Shaping Filet Crochet
Pockets
Making Inset Pockets
Neckbands and Collars
Button and Buttonhole Bands
Adding Buttons
Making Your Own Buttons
Zippers
Working Edge Treatments
Edging and Insertions
Jazzy Trims and Fringes

Chapter Five
Working in the Round
Working Out From the Centre
Working a Basic Round Block
Fitting Blocks Together
Turning Corners on Shaped Blocks
Working in Layers
Making a Spiral
Joining Lace Blocks
Tubes and Cylinders
Socks
Mittens

Chapter Six
Grouping Colours
Stripe Patterns
Working Jacquard and Intarsia Patterns
Felting Crochet
Applying Beads
Setting Up a Dye Studio
Handpainting Yarn with Acid Dyes

Chapter Seven
Dealing with Yarn Ends
Blocking and Pressing
Seams
Working Guidelines

                                                                                                                 

200 Crochet Tips, Techniques and Trade Secrets is available from Amazon

Disclosure: I buy sewing books from on-line shops with my own money, I am not being paid for writing this review. All my reviews are honest and on things that I genuinely love and would recommend to my readers. 

I Won a Giveaway!

I've been lucky enough to have won a giveaway!

I got a message from Louise at Sew Sensational on Friday to say congratulations that I won the Simplicity Lisette 1878  sewing pattern.  

Picture taken from Sew Lisette blog

I entered the giveaway a few weeks ago and completely forgot about entering.....  So it was a lovely surprise when I got the email from Louise that I had won!

Book Review 200 Crochet Blocks for Blankets Throws and Afghans

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Choose from 200 beautiful block designs and learn different ways of joining them to make blankets and throws that are both functional and decorative. From Art Deco geometric patterns to traditional chequer-board stripes and elaborate motifs, discover new ways to combine colour, pattern and texture. Crochet is one of the oldest and most fascinating ways of creating a fabric out of yarn. Find out how to create wonderful and unique afghans, wall hangings and accessories in a kaleidoscope of colourful contemporary and traditional designs. All stitches and techniques are clearly explained with step-by-step illustrations, from working in rows and in the round to joining blocks and making figures. At-a-glance symbols denote the methods used and level of difficulty, so both new and experienced crafters can easily create a crochet masterpiece.

                                                                                                                   

Chapter One

Introduction
How To Use This Book
Mix and Match
Mixing and Matching Blocks
Using Colours
Mix and Match Designs
Blue Horizons
Deco Delight
Waterlily Pond
Eastern Promise
Tumbling Bubbles
Golden Glow
Stripes and  Squares
Floral Fantasy
Merry Xmas
Fourth of July
Baby Stripes
Pastel Rainbow

Chapter Two

Block Directory

Chapter Three

Techniques
How To Start
Stitches
Tension
Joining Yarns
Textured Stitches
Decreases
Three Dimensional Motifs
Colour work Patterns from Chart
Working in Rounds
Blocking
Seams
Edgings
Abbreviations
Yarns
Yarn Colours

                                                                                                                 

200 Crochet Blocks for Blankets, Throws and Afghans is available from Amazon

Disclosure: I buy sewing books from on-line shops with my own money, I am not being paid for writing this review. All my reviews are honest and on things that I genuinely love and would recommend to my readers. 

Book Review The Encyclopedia of Crochet Techniques

Photo from Amazon

Wonderful textured fabrics are now within easy reach! This complete guide explains, in a clear and easy-to-follow fashion, how to create everything from openwork and lace through to woven and hairpin crochet. As useful for the highly experienced as the absolute beginner, this information-packed book takes you through the basic techniques to a highly adaptable project section that will provide guidance and inspiration for making colourful and stylish garments for you to wear. Create wonderful textured fabrics with this complete guide to crochet. Essential tools and techniques are clearly explained with step-by-step illustrations, from working stitches and measuring gauge to adding embellishments and finishing off. Each technique includes stitch patterns to try out, and an adaptable project section allows you to practice your new skills making original and colourful garments and accessories using your own choice of yarns and stitches.

                                                                                                

Chapter One

Crochet Essentials

Equipment and Materials

Basic Skills

Measuring Tension

Joining Yarns

Reading Patterns and Charts

Pressing and Blocking

Seams

Chapter Two

Techniques and Stitches

Working Stripe Patterns

Working Ridged Stitches

Shaping

Working Clusters

Working Shell Stitches

Working Bobbles

Working Popcorns

Working Puff Stitches

Working Loop Stitches

Openwork Lace Stitches

Filet Crochet

Working Chevron Patterns

Working Spike Stitches

Working Raised Stitches

Working Jacquard Patterns

Working Intarsia Patterns

Tubular Crochet

Working Circular Motifs

Working and Joining Squares

Working and Joining Hexagons

Tunisian Crochet

Broomstick Crochet

Hairpin Crochet

Making Cords

Making Sew On Trims

Working Edge Finishes

Working Buttonholes and Button Loops

Braids, Edgings and Fringes

Surface Crochet

Applying Beads

Applying Sequins

Chapter Three

Projects

Winter Scarf

Baby Afghan

Filet Crochet Wrap

Buttonhole Bag

Intarsia Potholder

Hexagon Pillow

Striped Bag

Chapter Four

Gallery

Crochet Garments

Hats, Scarves and Mittens

Shawls, Ponchos and Wraps

Crochet in the Home

Jewellery

Bags

Dolls and Toys

Care of Crochet

Abbreviations and Symbols

Glossary

Suppliers

                                                                                            

The Encyclopedia of Crochet Techniques is available from Amazon

Disclosure: I buy sewing books from on-line shops with my own money, I am not being paid for writing this review. All my reviews are honest and on things that I genuinely love and would recommend to my readers. 

Book Review Stitch 'n' Bitch Crochet The Happy Hooker

Picture from Amazon

synopsis

Debbie does crochet! Debbie Stoller, the "knitting superstar", has been leading an entire movement of hip young knitters with her "New York Times" best seller "Stitch 'n Bitch" and it's follow up "Stitch 'n Bitch Nation". But guess what? For every one knitter in the world there are three crocheters - which translates into millions of hip and crafty crocheter's ready to be happy hookers with stitch 'n bitch attitude. Written in cheeky chick style, this heavily illustrated book - featuring four-colour photographs and instructional illustrations throughout - is chock full of instruction, inspiration, and to-die-for designs, from a fishnet skullcap to a lacy evening wrap. For knitters and new crocheter's exploring the hook comes the primer, a discussion of tools, what the gauges mean, plus basic techniques and stitch patterns - including the chain stitch, picot, flowers, filet crochet, changing yarns, and finishing. 40 fabulous funky projects - and no there are no grandma's doilies!

Stoller's "Stitch 'N Bitch" and "Stitch 'N Bitch Nation" have become icons of the knitting craze: every hip young needleworker has at least one of them next to the yarn stash. Now, she uses the same approach that made her knitting books so successful in this entree to sexed-up hookwork that takes pains to show crocheting isn't for grandma anymore. Stoller provides everything short of the hook and yarn a crafter will need to learn how to crochet. From a history of the craft to mind-bogglingly complete instructions and dozens of charted and explained patterns (the majority of which are for women's clothing and accessories--there are no afghans here), it's all presented in Stoller's bright, witty style and accompanied by cheery color photographs. Beginners will like the easy construction of the "Stripes (and Stripes) Forever Scarf," and intermediate crocheters will enjoy whipping up a "Cupcake," a purple sweater confection. Experienced crocheters have patterns here too, such as the astonishing lace "Go For Baroque" sweater. This latest entry into the "Stitch 'N Bitch" canon is sure to be another bestseller.

                                                                                                      

Part One
Learning to Crochet

Chapter One
A Brief History of Hooking
The Joys of Crochet
Crochet vs. Knitting
A Guide to Crochet Lingo

Chapter Two
The Tools of Crochet
Getting to Know Crochet Hooks
Choosing Your Yarn
Yarn Weights
Crochet Thread
Yarn Textures and Crochet
Making Skeins and Hanks
How To Read A Yarn Label
Other Crocheting
Supplies Standard Yarn Weight
System

Chapter Three
Making the Chain Stitch, Single Crochet and Slip Stitch
Making a Slipknot
Holding Your Yarn and Hook
Making the Chain Stitch
Making Single Crochet Stitches into the Chain
Other Ways to Crochet into the Chain
The Turning Chain
Single crochet Row 2
The Structure of Crochet
Understanding Gauge
The Slip Stitch
Finishing Off Your Work

Chapter Four
Making Half Double Crochet, Double Crochet and Triple Crochet
The Half Double Crochet Stitch
The Double Crochet Stitch
The Triple Crochet Stitch
Double Triple and Triple Triple Crochet
How To Add Yarn
Understanding Crochet Directions

Chapter Five
Increasing, Decreasing and Working in Circle
Adding Stitches
Decreasing Stitches
Crocheting a Circle
Making a Circle with Smaller Hole

Chapter Six
Making Fancy Stitches
How to Read a Crochet Chart
The V Stitch]Making Shell Stitches
Making Bobble, Puff and Popcorn Stitches
Making the Mesh Stitch
Making the Fishnet Stitch
Making a Picot Stitch
Inserting Your Hook in Other Locations
Making Ribbing with Crochet
Crocheting Around the Post
Making the Crossed Stitch
How to Make The Spiked Stitch
Crocheting with Granny Square

Chapter Seven
Making Images in Crochet
Colour Work Using Tapestry in Crochet
Working Filet Crochet
Learning the Afghan Stitch

Chapter Eight
Sewing Your Pieces Together, Blocking and Adding Decoration
Sewing Seams
Weaving Sides and Tops of Crochet Pieces Together
Making Joins Using the Whip Stitch
Seaming with the Back Stitch
Crochet Seams
Making Buttonholes
Adding Fringes, Tassels and Pom Poms
Making Decorative cords and Crocheted Buttons
Stitching onto Crochet
Working Away Yarn Ends
Blocking

Part Two
Patterns

How to Read a Crochet Pattern
Abbreviations

Scarves and Shawls
Garden Scarf
One Skein Scarf
Stripes and Stripes Forever
Sweet Pea Shawl
Cold Shoulders

Hats
Yeehaw Lady
The PDQ
Anarchy Irony Hat
Boy Beanie
Strut
Spring in Winter

Bags
In Bloom and Fit to Be Tied
Granny#'s NO Square
Orange You Glad and Fashion First Aid
Exchange Bag
Fat Bottom Bag

Spring and Summer
Blissful
Cupcake
Short 'n' Sweet
Designer Wannabe Tank Top
Knot Ugly Shrug
Bikini in a Bag

Fall and Winter
Prepster
Jolly Roger
Unseamly Sweater
Froufrou
Go For Baroque
Violet Beauregard

Accessories
One Night Glam
Ruffled Corset Belt
Fluffy Bunny Slippers
Pinups
Ladylike Gloves

Home, Gifts and Baby
Bedfellows
Skullholders
Doris Day Mat
Cozy Pod Creatures
Colour Bar Blanket
Li'l Monkey
Seija Set
                                                                                                                  

 Stitch 'n' Bitch Crochet The Happy Hooker is available from Amazon

Disclosure: I buy sewing books from on-line shops with my own money, I am not being paid for writing this review. All my reviews are honest and on things that I genuinely love and would recommend to my readers. 

Book Review - Vogue Sewing

Photo from Amazon
 
Synopsis

Since its introduction in 1970, Vogue Sewing has been the favourite of sewing enthusiasts, covering everything you need to know to create fashionable, professional-quality clothing—from fabric selection and construction basics to advanced pattern alterations and couture techniques. Now, fully revised and updated, this latest edition stays true to the spirit of the original Vogue Sewing, while providing up-to-the-minute information and a wealth of colour charts, step-by-step illustrations and time-saving tips to make your sewing quick and easy. 

 In this book you will find:

Information on the newest sewing equipment, notions, fabrics, linings and supplies on the market.

A wealth of colour charts step by step  illustrations and time saving tips to make tour sewing quick and easy.

Instructions on taking your measurements and adjusting patterns to achieve the perfect fit for your body type.

No mater what your skill level or sewing needs, you are sure to find the answers and inspiration in this comprehensive manual .  A trusted classic for more than 35 years, Vogue Sewing promises to remain the premier guidebook for a whole new generation of sewers!

                                                                                         

Chapter 1-The Fashion Game

In chapter 1 you will find the following sections:
 fashion sewing as an art form, colour, prints, texture, line, proportion and balance, your fashion analysis, figure and your body profile.

Chapter 2 -The Wonderful World of Fabrics
 In chapter 2 you will find the following sections:

 the wonderful world of fabrics, fibres, yarns, fabric structure, basic weaves, knits, other fabric constructions, finishes, colour and fabric pattern, fibre and fabric facts, inner construction, guide to under lining's and linings and guide to interfacing.

Chapter 3 -Your Pattern Profile

In chapter 3 you will find the following sections:

pattern design, the creation of a pattern, the vogue catalogue, choosing the pattern size for you, your body measurements, understanding pattern sizing and understanding ease.

Chapter 4 - Patterns and Equipment
In chapter 4 you will find the following sections:

pattern particulars, pattern pieces: blueprints, pattern cutting guide, choosing the correct fabric, fabrics requiring extra yardage, fabric width conversion chart, notions: your sewing accessories, needle and thread chart, special uses, the sewing machine, machine equipment, the overlock machine and tools for every sewing need.

Chapter 5 -Prepare to Sew
In chapter 5 you will find the following sections:

prepare to sew, preparing your fabric, achieving perfect fit, understanding ease, identify lengths, prepare to alter your pattern, flat pattern adjustments, dresses, skirts and bodice adjustments, pants adjustments, cut with care, special fabric layouts, mark with accuracy and more notes on underlining.

Chapter 6 - Construction Basics
In chapter 6 you will find the following sections:

your complete sewing handbook, hand stitches - getting started, basting, hand sewing, machine stitching, darts, tucks, pleats, godets, gathering and shirring, ruffles and mitering.

Chapter 7 - Construction Techniques
In chapter 7 you will find the following sections:

 interfacing applications, facing and other edge finishing, bindings, bands,castings, collars, flat collar, rolled collar, shawl collar, standing collar, fold over bias collar, tie collar, collar with stand, detachable collar,sleeves, gussets, sleeve finishes, placket openings for cuffs, special sleeve closings, cuffs, pockets, welt pockets, side front slanted pockets, in seam pockets, waistlines, waistbands, belts and carriers, closures, fabric and thread loops, buttons, zippers, fasteners, hems, hem finishes, special hems and pressing.

Chapter 8 - Advanced Pattern Alternations
In chapter 8 you will find the following sections:

 prepare to alter, personal fitting alterations - dresses, skirt and bodice, personal fitting alterations - pants and fitting as you sew.

Chapter 9 - Fabrics Requiring Special Handling
In chapter 9 you will find the following sections:

 fabrics with give, fabrics that flow and float, fabrics with luster, fabrics with surface style, leather and suede and the elegance of fur.

Chapter 10 - Impeccable Tailoring
In chapter 10 you will find the following sections:

creative tailoring, first stage - the skirt, tailoring challenge,jacket or coat, attaching interfacing to your garment and lining as a finale.

Chapter 11 - The Custom Touch

In chapter 11 you will find the following sections: 

couture techniques, the inside story, the shapekeepers, the finest fastenings, the finishing touches, creative trims, fringe, lace and embroidered trims, beading feather and fur, fashion stitching and fabric manipulation and embellishment.

                                                                                         

"Vogue" Sewing - revised and updated is one of my favourite books and for me it is a must have book, it is my sewing bible!

It is a must have for any sewing library - beginner, intermediate and advanced.

Everything you could ever want to know about sewing is in this book .
"Vogue" Sewing - revised and updated is very comprehensive with clear concise directions, illustrations and photographs.

Vogue Sewing is available from Amazon

Disclosure: I buy sewing books from on-line shops with my own money, I am not being paid for writing this review. All my reviews are honest and on things that I genuinely love and would recommend to my readers.

Book Review - Weekend Sewing

 

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"Weekend Sewing", inspired by the STC bestseller "Weekend Knitting", features unique sewing projects that can be completed in a weekend or less, plus fun ideas for incorporating sewing into a relaxed, creative lifestyle. Projects for both beginning and intermediate sewers include dresses for girls and women, pyjamas sized for the family, pillowcases, throw pillows and travel bags. The book also includes recipes, such as soup to simmer on the stove while you're sewing, ideas for sewing with friends and children, plus useful information about setting up an inspiring sewing space, buying a new or used sewing machine and the basic sewing skills needed to complete the projects in the book. All of the instructions are clearly and beautifully illustrated by the author and the requisite patterns are included on two pullout pages at the back of the book.
                                                                                                                       

Chapter 1
Home and Away

Chapter 2
Dressing up and Dressing Down

Chapter 3
Sewing for kids

Chapter 4
Sewing Basics
                                                                                                                            


Weekend Sewing: More Than 40 Projects and Ideas for Inspired Stitching I like this book but it is not one of my favourite books.  There are quite a few errors in this book regarding the patterns and you have to go to Heather Ross's website for the errata .  Weekend sewing has 29 projects with full instructions as well as recipes and tips for setting up a home sewing studio.

Weekend Sewing is available from Amazon.

Disclosure: I buy sewing books from on-line shops with my own money, I am not being paid for writing this review. All my reviews are honest and on things that I genuinely love and would recommend to my readers.

Book Review - I Am Cute Dress

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Synopsis

 I Am Cute Dresses offers 25 adorable sewn dress designs that are deceivingly simple to make and fun to wear. Start sewing simple and adorable dresses that you'll love to wear. Sato Watanabe has designed each dress to maximize simplicity and style, offering charm without complicated alterations or difficult tailoring. There's no need for patterns with I Am Cute Dresses. Each of the 25 designs is created by following a construction layout with the measurements provided. No complicated pattern pieces and cutting instructions. Every one of these easy, loose, and effortless dresses is created from basic, one-size fits-most shapes that are designed to be flattering on everyone. Any custom alterations you choose to make are made easy just by adding in your one of your own body measurements to the garment layout. Height adjustments are also made easy by simply raising or dropping your hemline. I Am Cute Dresses will have you spending less time fussing over the fit and more time enjoying your new sewn dress.

                                                                                                                                       

Chapter 1 - I Am Pleats and Petals

Chapter 2 - I Am Very V Neck

Chapter 3 - I Am Mandarin Empire

Chapter 4 - I Am Barley Ruffled

Chapter 5 - I Am Peekaboo Sleeves

Chapter 6 - I Am Hello Halter

Chapter 7 - I Am Simply Stand Up

Chapter 8 - I Am Baby Bateau

Chapter 9 - I Am Sassy Sundress

Chapter 10 - I Am Twice As Nice

Chapter 11 - I Am Tiny Tucks

Chapter 12 - I Am Raglan to Riches

Chapter 13 - I Am All The Trimmings

Chapter 14 - I Am All Wrapped Up

Chapter 15 - I Am Dainty Drops

Chapter 16 - I Am Cue Contrast

Chapter 17 - I Am Sweetly Tied

Chapter 18 - I Am Tripled Tier

Chapter 19 - I Am Jumper for Joy

Chapter 20 - I Am So Buttoned Down

Chapter 21 - I Am Shift into Tunic

Chapter 22 - I Am Magical Insets

Chapter 23 - I Am Kimono Cut

Chapter 24 - I Am box Pleated Wonder

Chapter 25 - I Am Satin Doll

In each section there are instructions and details on how to create each item.
The patterns are one size fits all, 35-36 inch bust and up to 39 inch hips.

The instructions are well drawn and the photography is excellent.

I Am Cute Dress is available from Amazon

Disclosure: I buy sewing books from on-line shops with my own money, I am not being paid for writing this review. All my reviews are honest and on things that I genuinely love and would recommend to my readers.

Book Review - Couture Sewing Techniques Revised and Updated

 

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Synopsis

 Fashion historian Claire B. Shaeffer has opened the door to the exclusive realm of haute couture in her authoritative guide to the techniques that define couture sewing. And now, the industry bible, Couture Sewing Techniques, has been revised and updated with new photos and a chapter on specialty fabrics. No one can unravel couture garment construction the way Schaeffer can, from the art of hand sewing to mastering edge finishes, from classic closures to shaping a garment for a perfect fit. Sewers of all skill levels with an interest in fashion sewing will learn the basics for skirts and sleeves, pockets and jackets, evening gowns and more, as well as, most importantly, how to apply the techniques. Gorgeous photos, clear illustrations and concise language combine to make this the most complete couture-sewing course available.

                                                                                                                 

Part 1 - The basics of couture sewing

In this section you will find the following chapters

Chapter 1

Inside the world of haute couture

Chapter 2

The art of hand sewing

Chapter 3

 Shaping the garment

Chapter 4

Edge finishes

Chapter 5

Closures

Part 2 - Applying couture techniques

In this section you will find the following chapters

Chapter 6

Skirts and pants

Chapter 7

Blouses and dresses

Chapter 8

Sleeves

Chapter 9

Pockets

Chapter 10

Jacket and coats

Chapter 11

Designing with fabric

Chapter 12

Special occasions

                                                                                                                

Couture Sewing Techniques, Revised & Updated It is a must have for any sewing library -  beginner, intermediate and advanced.  Everything that you need to know about couture techniques is in this book

Couture Sewing Techniques, Revised & Updated has lots of colour photographs and well-written descriptions.  

Couture Sewing Techniques, revised and updated is available from Amazon.

Disclosure: I buy sewing books from on-line shops with my own money, I am not being paid for writing this review. All my reviews are honest and on things that I genuinely love and would recommend to my readers.