Some Chapter Headings:
Equipment
Fabrics
Accessories from a Straight Piece of Material
A Shift or Robe from Turkish Towels
How to Use Patterns

I liked:

• The prose. For example, take this paragraph from the Introduction, “Haven’t you envied your friends who have an endless supply of new clothes which they’ve made for themselves? You hear tales of how an inexpensive piece of material from a remnant counter has turned into a lovely party dress, while you’ve been trying to figure out how to persuade Dad to give you still another advance on your allowance to cover a down payment on that dress you saw in the store window.”
• The chapter on “Basic Stitches” that covers everything from threading a needle and diagrams showing how to knot your thread to explaining running stitches, back stitching and hemming.
• Instructions on how to use a thimble (a lost art for certain!).
• A great chapter on the basic sashes, belts, totes and headbands.
• The “How to Use Patterns” chapter that is most thorough, including pinning, marking darts and notches, stay stitching, and facings.

My dislikes:

• Not any really, especially when you consider this is a book for beginners.

Conclusion:
“Cute.” That’s the word I’d use to describe this book. I think it is absolutely darling. I love the way it’s written. It covers the most basic of basic (“Now place two layers of material together, and pin them together.”, page 22) while also explaining techniques like under stitching. Plus, I love the confidence it exudes when, in closing, it promises “When you have learned to make all the things presented in this book, you will be able to create an almost complete wardrobe, lacking only a coat and slacks…” (page 127).

Would I buy it for myself?
As a sewing instructor, I am considering this book. I think the progression it uses to teach sewing would work very well for beginners of any age.

Would I buy it for a beginner sewer?
Most certainly. This book would be perfect for someone that has never sewn, but is ready to start.

Some Chapter Headings:

• Applique
• Bindings
• Collars
• Facings
• Gussets
• Linings
• Overlock
• Shoulder Pads
• Yokes

I liked:

• The quick, easy-to-use format. They certainly don’t waste any words. The only text not in a tutorial is the opening page, where the book is explained.
• Opening any one of the 47 sections to find well-illustrated instructions on sewing techniques.
• The “Binding” section. It starts with a quick tutorial on making your own binding strips and then covers those icky situations like turning corners and neatly joining binding.
• The information in the “Layout” section that covers cutting plaids and stripes. It includes gentle reminders like, “Avoid placing a heavy, dominant horizontal stripe at the bust line or waistline.” (page 209) Sounds like really good advice to me!
• The “Pocket” section. I wish I’d had that information the first time I tried to make a self-faced pocket. The illustrations are very clear.
• That this book even includes a section on “Shoulder Pads”. Should they ever come back into high fashion, I’ll know just where to turn!

My dislikes:

• The “Lining” section
• No “invisible zipper” reference
• The entire book is dedicated to garment sewing. Sure some techniques could cross-over into home decorating, but all the examples illustrated are garments.

Conclusion:
At first glance, this was one I wanted to put back on the shelf. But, as our local branch of the library has such a limited selection, I figured I better at least have a second look. I’m so glad I did!

This book is one to have on your shelf if you are moving toward an advanced beginner and intermediate sewing level. Not every sewer has mastered every technique, so having a quick, well-illustrated guide is quite handy. While I had the book for 2 weeks, I managed to use the sections on:
Binding
Buttonholes
Collars
Edge Finishes
Gussets
Hand Sewing
Layouts
Pressing
Vents

Would I buy it for myself? I have it “Saved for Later” on my favorite book-buying site. But, I’ll probably pass. At least, as long as I can find it on the shelf at the library.

Would I buy it for a beginner sewer? Maybe. This is definitely a great addition to the library of an advanced beginner.