Linen and Cotton: Classic Sewing Techniques for Great Results (Focus on Fabric) (Paperback)

by Susan Khalje (Author) "Linen and cotton are delightful fabrics to sew-there's little they can't do and little they won't do..." (more)
Key Phrases: narrow machine hem, slot seam, seam treatments, Hong Kong, Vogue Pattern, United States (more...)

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal
Khalje, director of the Couture Sewing School and author of Bridal Couture (Krause, 1997), here examines the characteristics of two of the most popular natural fiber fabrics used by home sewers. Major sections of the book are devoted to choosing appropriate patterns, purchasing and preparing fabrics, techniques for sewing on cotton and linen, and decorative details and finishing. Recommended for sewing collections.
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Product Description
Linen and cotton are two classic fabrics that are always in style. This second book in the Focus on Fabric series, Linen and Cotton, is the essential sewing room reference for working with these easy-to-wear fabrics. It includes not only sewing techniques, but tips on selecting the right patterns and equipment, preparing and caring for the fabric before and after sewing, and construction techniques. These well-behaved fabrics are the perfect place to try new or complex techniques with confidence. Rarely taught classic couture methods are explained in detail. In one concise volume, sewers can find information on weaves, treatments, finishes, and specialty details like godets, pin tucks, and piping. A gallery of beautiful garments will serve as inspiration to take sewing skills to new heights. With the help of these professional techniques, linen and cotton garments will turn out like expensive ready-to-wear.

Product Details

• Paperback: 144 pages
• Publisher: Taunton (May 1, 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1561582506
• ISBN-13: 978-1561582501
• Product Dimensions: 9.9 x 8 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 14.4 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.5 out of 5 stars See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #549,746 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

46 of 46 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars I love this book!!, September 3, 2000

By A Customer

I love sewing and I bought this book as cotton and linen are among my favorite fabrics to use when I am making shirts, blouses skirt and dresses.

The first part of this book includes information (without getting too technical) on these two types of fabric with emphasis on their numerous qualities, types, processing, weaves, dyeing techniques and finishes. Also included are a number of sample garments that cover a range of styles fabrication and techniques to show how versatile garments one can make (even a wedding gown!!) out of linen or cotton. The author then proceeds to describe various techniques one can apply to achieve great results with the use of very clear diagrams and photographs. This part of the book I found to be the most fascinating.

There is a list of decorative seam treatments and seam finishes that look great on these two fabrics. The author includes techniques on different waistline treatments one can apply in skirts or pants. Better yet, everyone who works with these fabrics should check out the information on the use and application of interfacings, underlinings, facings and linings. Instructions on the use of sleeve heads, staystitching and inner stay tape are also included as well as on the application of decorative details such as pleats, gathers, godets and angled seams, topstitching, decorative stitching, application of lace, binding and even pockets. Finally she concentrates on a number of finishing details regarding closures (zippers, buttons, hooks and eyes, plackets etc.) hems and others.

This book is not intended to provide information on how to make shirts, skirts etc. as it is a fiber-oriented and not a garment-oriented book. The author has managed to write a book with so much information and interesting techniques to apply when working with these fabrics (to give structure, embellish, or add the right finishing detail) that I find it to be most valuable to me. Do try these at home!!

19 of 33 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Review of a mere amateur, July 19, 2000

By A Customer

I have enjoyed sewing, but have not had time to do any of it for the last few years. Over the last 3, however, I have really gotten "in to" linens, crochet, and embroidery. I don't know what hit me! I have had a college class in sewing, good pointers from a few and have occasionally browsed a couple of books, so take this review with that knowledge. I have worked my way through half of the book, now, and have learned several pointers and have piqued my interest and desire to sew again even more. I think the book is very enjoyable, and the only reason that I didn't rate it higher, is that, I'm not sure if my judgement would be critical. There should be some rating scheme for the reviewers, also! I don't know how this compares to others, but I am actually _reading_ it -- through and through, not just skipping. Enjoy!