Customer Reviews

Easy Guide to Sewing Jackets

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This book covers everything you need to know to make a very basic, collarless jacket. Topics discussed include silhouettes, accurate measuring, fabric and interfacing choices, fitting, seam finishes, and step-by-step instuctions on assembling the jacket. However, the book does not cover welt and bound pockets (only patch pockets are included), bound buttonholes, collars and lapels- especially the notched collar. Tailoring and shaping are also excluded. (For a good overview of all of these techniques and some other goodies, check out Claire Shaeffer's "Couture Sewing Techniques; Taunton Press, 1993) The book is perfectly suited for those who may be wary of undertaking a jacket. The instructions are clear and there are many photographs. There is even a section that breaks down the sewing steps for a weekend jacket project, which is encouraging.

Like the other reviewers, I borrowed this book from the library, and it was so helpful, I decided I had to buy it.

I'm an advanced beginner sewing my first tailored jacket. I followed the instructions for sewing set in sleeves (hair canvas bias strips, sleeve headers, shoulder pads), and the sleeves and shoulders turned out looking almost as good as the ones on a $500 jacket. It was my first attempt, and I was amazed.

I've seen other books on tailoring, and this one is superior in every way. True, the book doesn't cover collars, lapels or welt pockets, but what is covered is done thoroughly and professionally. And as the author points out it's best not to attempt too many difficult procedures on your first jacket.

In short, if you're eager to make a simple but professionally tailored jacket, Cecila Podolak's book is absolutely must reading.

I checked this book out of my library three times and finally bought it to have on hand at all times. Very knowledgable lady with excellent credentials. Easy to understand and follow.

I have found in my experiences with sewing it is essential to have a profoundly helpful guide nearby. This book is the one I have come to trust and live by. A definite must buy.

It is a very helpful, nicely written book with beautiful photographs. After borrowing it from the library, I would like to purchase it for a reference. I am at an intermediate sewing level.

While the information that is covered in the book is handled well, thoroughly, and in great detail, I was highly disappointed to realize that this book covers only COLLARLESS jackets. This information did not appear in the product description anywhere before I purchased the book, though I (now) see that some other reviewers did mention this. I wish the product information had been more complete; I might have made a different purchase.

Still, a useful reference for the beginning sewer attempting a first jacket project. Although the photos and styles of the jackets (collarless, all - did I mention that?) are outdated, as a reference, the information is timeless. Lots of helpful pictures throughout as well.