2 Great Sewing Gift Books

Do you have seamstresses or crafters on your holiday list this year?  Well folks, this is your answer.  These books would make great gifts either wrapped on their own or added to cute baskets of sewing notions & supplies. Take a look...I loved them!

The Sewing Answer Book

by Barbara Weiland Talbert

Published by David & Charles

Sept. 2010

ISBN 13: 978-0-7153-3839-1

My Review:

From the Publisher:

Over 275 expert solutions to sewing questions, covering every machine and hand-sewing technique. It contains simple, step-by-step instructions for the trickiest techniques, suitable for both beginner and experienced sewers alike.

Readers will find everything from sewing patterns and fabrics, to seams, linings and fastenings. Complete with easy-to-follow colour illustrations and in a great small format this book is the perfect reference to keep by your sewing machine.

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Make Me I'm Yours...Sewing

Compiled by Cheryl Brown

Published by David & Charles

Sept. 2010

ISBN 13: 978-0-7153-3772-1

My Review:

From the Publisher:

A treasure trove of more than 25 great projects, simple enough for beginners but irresistible to all. Practical yet pretty hand and sewing machine projects are an ideal way to create gifts with lasting impact. Packed with ideas, needlecraft techniques, step-by-step instructions and handy tips to make it fun and easy. With ideas for you and your home, from beautiful bags to vibrant cushions, everyone will find a project they adore.

Inside the Book:

I hope you enjoy these two great books either for yourself or as great gift ideas!

~XOXO~

A Perfect Fit

A Perfect Fit
Author: Lynne Garner
Publisher: David & Charles
2009
ISBN-13: 978-0-7153-35-17-8
128 pages, Color Photos & Illustrations

My Review:  This book is about creating personalized patterns for a limitless wardrobe. The book is divided into 5 chapters:
1. Getting Started: this includes measuring your body, supplies needed, calculating fabric and sewing techniques.
2. Draping Using Basic Blocks: this includes principles, bodice, fitted sleeves and the basic skirt.
3. Making your Paper Blocks: this includes pattern making, darts, dress block, loose sleeve block and trouser block.
4. Creating your Wardrobe: this includes tops, sleeves, skirts, trousers and dresses.
5. Extra Elements: this includes pockets, facings, necklines, waistbands, cuffs and collars.

I love the illustrations and pictures in this book. The instructions are laid out clean and precise with helpful pictures.  However, I think I need the pattern making book that comes before this one. I found myself re-reading, getting confused and having trouble understanding the instructions. I must note that I am a "simple seamstress". I currently sew with McCalls easy patterns. So, if you have sewing experience and want more creativity in designing your wardrobe, then this book is for you.

4 out of 5 stars.

From the Publisher: Using quick, easy-to-understand techniques this book brings the traditional couturier's method of creating bespoke garment patterns into the world of the home sewer. Unless you are one of the standard sizes dictated by garment pattern manufacturers (and very, very few women are), you will need to adapt a shop-bought pattern to make it fit you. Draping calico on your body following Lynne Garner's detailed step-by-step instructions results in a pattern block that is shaped to your body and works well in fabric. Learn how to then adapt your basic bodice, sleeve and skirt blocks to create a literally limitless number of gorgeous tops, trousers, skirts and dresses, all of which fit you to perfection. All you need to start your own Perfect Fit wardrobe is some calico, pins and a sewing buddy to help you out (you can return the favor so you both have bespoke pattern blocks).

Links:
www.rucraft.co.uk
Amazon
Amazon UK
Video Review


XOXO-
*Thank you Marie for this opportunity to review*

Need Help Crafting? GIVEAWAY ALERT!

WOW, do I have a treat for one lucky reader!!

Marie with David and Charles Publishers has graciously agreed to give one of my lucky readers a copy of Martha Stewart's Encyclopedia of Crafts.

photo credit: Ditte Isager

Martha Stewart's Encyclopedia of Crafts

David and Charles

UK Oct. 30, 2009

Specs: 416 pages, Hardback

ISBN-13: 978-0-7153-3635-9

www.rucraft.co.uk
RUCrafts on Facebook

My Review: This book contains the best of the craft projects from Martha Stewart Living Magazine. The book includes:

     1. Step-by-Step Instructions

     2. Full Color Photographs

     3. Easy to Copy Templates

     4. Glossary of Terms

     5. Supply Lists

     6. Vendor Lists

All crafts are organized by topic from A to Z. There are over 400 pages of crafting information, set up into 32 chapters. The chapter's are organized first by supplies needed, followed by step-by-step instructions and then several inspirational ideas.

Beaded Letters

photo credit: Carlton Davis

At first glance, the book seemed overwhelming. Most of these crafts will take practice and success will not be achieved on the first try. Some of these crafts are very artistic and tradesmanship worthy.

Polymer Clay Buttons

photo credits: Sang An

This is an excellent resource book. However due to the skills needed to complete most of these crafts, I am rating this book 4 out of 5 stars.

Bottle Cap Frames

photo credit: James Merrell

From the Publisher: This comprehensive resource features 32 must know crafts organized by subject from A-Z, and beautifully designed – all packed into the 416 pages of this book. From beading to block printing and candlemaking to soap making all crafts are covered with contemporary projects to suit all tastes.

Full step-by-step instructions for every technique, catering for everyone from first-time dabblers to the more adventurous crafters. Over 200 projects are fully explained with great photography. Illuminating glossaries, a full rundown of essential tools and materials, professional tips and handy UK resources are included, making this a lasting reference you will dip into time and time again.

Projects Include:
Albums, Scrapbooks & Memory Boxes, Beading, Block Printing, Botanical Pressing, Calligraphy, Candle-making, Etching Glass, Gilding, Matting & Framing, Mosaics, Nature Crafts, Painting China and Glass, Paper Cutting and Punching, Photo Crafts, Silkscreening, Soap Making, and lots more.

To purchase Martha Stewart's Encyclopedia of Crafts

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I will randomly pick one follower/commenter to receive a copy of Martha Stewart's Encyclopedia of Crafts. The book will be shipped from the publisher.

If you are a follower of my blog, do nothing,
you are automatically entered in this giveaway.
If you would like to increase your chances, you can do the following:

1. +1 entry, leave me a comment with your email address (easy!)

2. +1 entry, Tweet about this giveaway, you can copy & paste the following: Win a copy of @MarthaStewart Encyclopedia of Crafts Book @beachbrights http://bit.ly/8Nz5qR 

3. +1 entry, blog about this giveaway.

4. Giveaway Open to ALL, no PO Boxes, ends Monday 1-25-10.

 MAKE SURE YOU LEAVE ME A COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY!

THIS IS HOW I COUNT THE WINNER!

Thank you Marie for this opportunity!

XOXO