Some Chapter Headings: Types of Applique Stitch Maneuvers Applique Designs Fancy Closures-Not Just Buttons
I liked:
The clothing patterns included with this book: a girls’ jumper, a boys’ suit, and an apron.
A great supply list that explains why you need all those things, like stabilizer and interfacings.
The very detailed (at first glance primitive, but actually quite informative) diagrams in the “Stitch Maneuver” chapter that instruct you as you begin to applique, turn inward or outward curves, form corners and stitch points.
The “Little Red Riding Hood” applique design.
My dislikes:
While some of the designs are very cute, others are quite dated (think things we wore in the 70s!).
I found the boys’ suit to run very small.
No instructions for sewing snap tape into the crotch of the boys’ suit.
Conclusion: First, this book is a bargain, when you consider all that it contains. Just purchasing a girls jumper and a boys’ suit pattern could run you upwards of $20. Plus, you get all the applique designs and how-tos.
Second, if you can sew, you can applique and this book is detailed enough to show you how. Even if you don’t love these designs, you can take this information and make your own designs.
Would I buy it for myself? I already did–several years ago, when I wanted to reproduce similar designs to those I’d seen at a local upscale children’s boutique. While I don’t refer to the book often anymore, it was invaluable while I was learning to applique.
Would I buy it for a beginner sewer? This book would better serve an advanced beginner.
Here’s my take on Simplicity 2971. I had originally planned to make view B, but after seeing Erica B.’s, I couldn’t resist View F.
I made two significant changes: I made the straps a bit wider in hopes of covering bra straps and I used narrow elastic to create the bubble hem line.
Unfortunately, I’m not comfortable with my shoulders that exposed. (Even my swim suits cover more up top!) So, I’ll be wearing this one under a jacket.
And, as the personality quiz in this magazine pointed out, I’m allergic to bling. I’m thinking the rhinestones are bit too much…
This summer I have offered a series of no-sew, low-sew classes at a local fabric store. My Big Girl has participated and created lots of fun things: a bandanna pillow, a blue jean bag, a swimsuit cover-up, and CD folders. This is the Santa Bag she made Monday.
It’s amazing what a 6-year-old can do with fabric glue!
The wonderful inspiration for “designing your own” based on a pattern.
The notions and supplies chapter because she points out that you don’t have to have much to get started and encourages you to wait until you know what you need before investing.
The “Anatomy Lesson” defining and describing pattern pieces.
Page 82 that has an excellent explanation of thread tension and why it is so important.
The Project Ticket Form
My dislikes:
The section on measuring yourself is not detailed and only includes instructions for measuring bust, waist, and hip. In my experience, using only these 3 measurements leads to ill-fitting garments and loads of frustration.
I found the A-line skirt pattern to be almost a pencil skirt.
Conclusion:
While this book isn’t as thorough as other “Complete Guides…” it certainly has its place. I personally picked up the book because the look of it appealed to me. And, the book is actually quite detailed for the beginner, describing and explaining techniques that more intermediate and advanced sewers would take for granted: stay-stitching, stitching direction, finishing seams, topstitching, understitching, and even sewing on a button!
Another feature that appealed to me: the book includes 3 patterns. While only the skirt has worked for me, the shirt and pants provide new options and can be a jump-start for a new sewer. That said, the limited measuring instructions and virtually no fitting information are potential roadblocks in sewing your own wardrobe.
Would I buy it for myself? I do own this book and I’ve made the skirt several times and in several ways.
Would I buy it for a beginner sewer? I whole-heartily recommend this book to a tween, teen, or even 30-something beginner–as long as they have a fitting resource (like a very, very good friend) handy.
****note: I’m in the Amazon Affiliate Program. I will be monetarily compensated if you purchase through the link above. That said, I do truly love this book and my recommendation has nothing to do with this affiliate program.
