Sewing book
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Most Helpful Customer Reviews
87 of 88 people found the following review helpful
By Kim Monk
Format:Hardcover
This edition of the Complete Guide to Sewing has recently been updated. However, the newest version does not include any information on tailoring. I use the older version for teaching sewing and constume construction classes, tailoring and special topics classes. Pictures and sketches are clear and written directions are easy to follow. This version does not have much serger/overlock information but does cover many other seam finishes. Information on fit and pattern alterations is very clear. Beginners or advanced seamstresses will find this book a "must" for their reference collection!
27 of 27 people found the following review helpful
Format:Hardcover
I have an older edition. I have used this book countless times to guide me in various sewing projects. I learned how to sew, just to tailor my clothes, and this book showed me how. It's not slick and hip with photos like the other sewing books have--but then, they don't help you get ahead in your skills. It's full of matter-of-fact information and detailed drawings (not cartoonis).
Don't knock a boring facade--it's the guts that count on this book. I wouldn't leave a burning house without it. But seriously, if you want to learn how to adjust a pattern so that it fits like some high-falutin' designer made it for you, get this book. For example, you'll be able to identify what's wrong with your mass-produced pants, and why they bag or bind in places, for example, and how to fix those issues on your homemade versions. This book will walk you through how to read a pattern envelope, why certain fabrics would be better for various projects, how to choose the right size (and then alter it for your best fit), and then there are tons of pages of how specifically to create any collar, a gathered seam, any kind pocket of pocket you can imagine and hem finishes, and lots of helpful information you never even thought to look for.
This will make those slick new books that are more eye-catching feel like wasted money. If you want to know what you're doing, this is THE book. You'll look at those flashy books that are the hot recommendations and say to yourself "I already know how to do all that!" You'll be able to write your own silly/fluff kind of sewing book after you absorb what is in this comprehensive tome.
Don't knock a boring facade--it's the guts that count on this book. I wouldn't leave a burning house without it. But seriously, if you want to learn how to adjust a pattern so that it fits like some high-falutin' designer made it for you, get this book. For example, you'll be able to identify what's wrong with your mass-produced pants, and why they bag or bind in places, for example, and how to fix those issues on your homemade versions. This book will walk you through how to read a pattern envelope, why certain fabrics would be better for various projects, how to choose the right size (and then alter it for your best fit), and then there are tons of pages of how specifically to create any collar, a gathered seam, any kind pocket of pocket you can imagine and hem finishes, and lots of helpful information you never even thought to look for.
This will make those slick new books that are more eye-catching feel like wasted money. If you want to know what you're doing, this is THE book. You'll look at those flashy books that are the hot recommendations and say to yourself "I already know how to do all that!" You'll be able to write your own silly/fluff kind of sewing book after you absorb what is in this comprehensive tome.
25 of 27 people found the following review helpful
By BJD
Format:Hardcover
I have had this book for a long time. I constantly look into other books. For the sewing classes I teach, I keep coming back to this one because it has really good laid out information and photos. Especially basic stuff that does not change!
I rate it as 4 stars simply because there is a newer version out and there has been a small amount of information I could not find or thought could have been laid out better.
I am looking forward to getting the newest version but will always keep the 1976 version. It is like an old friend!
I rate it as 4 stars simply because there is a newer version out and there has been a small amount of information I could not find or thought could have been laid out better.
I am looking forward to getting the newest version but will always keep the 1976 version. It is like an old friend!
Most Recent Customer Reviews
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great Resource
I had to buy this book for my introduction to sewing class, and it was an invaluable resource. I finished the class but I still use the book for my home sewing all the time! Read more
Published 8 days ago by goodreads
5.0 out of 5 stars
A must have for all who sew!
I bought this book (as I already own a copy) as a gift for my nephew who wants to learn to sew. It is an essential in the library of any sewer - and it covers EVERYTHING you need... Read more
Published 3 months ago by Melissa Wayne
4.0 out of 5 stars
Seems exhaustive on the subject
I haven't had a lot of time to read through it but, it seems like it covers everything so that's good!
Published 3 months ago by Jamie L Bryan
4.0 out of 5 stars
classic sewing reference book
I bought this book for my daughter. She is a beginning sewer. This book is filled with practical, relevant advice for the novice or experienced sewer. Read more
Published 4 months ago by Vanessa King
5.0 out of 5 stars
Most comprehensive...
Sewing book I've had. I bought and sent this book to my daughter-in-law, who is a new sewer. This book will give her an excellent start and be a good reference for a long time. Read more
Published 4 months ago by Kann2476
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great tool, use it all the time.
I have loaned this book out already. So much useful information you can’t keep it to yourself. I love this book.
Published 5 months ago by Nilah Simmons
5.0 out of 5 stars
EVERYONE SHOULD OWN THIS
This book is amazing. Not only for home sewing but also for students and those who would just like to have a great reference book. Read more
Published 5 months ago by Anna
5.0 out of 5 stars
sewing 101
this was the perfect book for my 30 something daughter who wanted to once again start sewing. Like all Readers Digest Guide books --you can refer to them for years.
Published 5 months ago by Diana
5.0 out of 5 stars
Reader's Digest Complete Guide to Sewing
This was a gift to our GrandDaughter in America, I already have copy for my own use her in Scotland.
Published 5 months ago by Greensleeves
4.0 out of 5 stars
A Nice Book to Have In a Reference Library
Before obtaining Dress Design by Hillhouse and Mansfield, and Modern Pattern Design by Harriet Pepin; this book was one of my go-to books. Read more
Published 5 months ago by Pandahate
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