Booklist
If you want to sew with knit fabric, a serger or overlocker is your best bet. Both those machines trim, stitch, and overlock in one action, and sergers are often able to perform additional types of stitches and have room for more spools of thread, allowing for the use of more colors. Color photographs with the parts of each type of machine labeled are accompanied here by short explanations of who might use it, what they might use it for, and technical features. Also enumerated are accessories and tools used with these machines and the types of fabrics theyre designed for as well as detailed photo illustrations of stitches and instructions on how to thread the machine and adjust the tension. All machines shown are Singers, though the concepts should translate to most other brands. In addition to the technical information, 15 projects take the reader through 50 lessons, each teaching a new technique. Projects include clothing, accessories, home décor, and more. Twelve full-size patterns on large format paper are stored in a back pocket.
East Kent Embroiderer's Guild
September/ October 2014
Aimed at the beginner, this is the perfect introduction to the world of sewing. After chapters on basic equipment, there are fifty lessons covering all the skills necessary to proceed on to making the exciting projects that follow. Full size pull-out patterns are included, with full step by step instructions, ensuring satisfying results for all. This is the perfect book for the novice sewer wishing to expand their knowledge, especially useful with the current trend of home sewing. Excellent value for money.
SEWING WORLD
September 2014
This handy guide contains 50 lessons and 15 simple projects to get you started on your sewing journey. Ideal for beginners this book guides you through the preparation needed with details about using a sewing machine, the equipment you will need and a glossary of commonly used sewing terms. It has full sized, fold-out patterns and basic step-by-step instructions to guide you through each project. The lessons lead up to projects using the techniques you have just learnt and they increase gradually in complexity. The projects range from simple cushions and bags to more sophisticated clothes, toys and quilts and being able to make projects as you work through the lessons will really boost your confidence as well as making the learning process much more fun!
Karen Platt Yarnsandfabrics.co.uk/crafts
May 14
Getting the best from your sewing machine is made easy with this book. There are 15 projects and full-size, fold-out patterns too. The lessons are illustrated and step-by-step so this is fool-proof for beginners. The projects are simple, practical and useful. Learn all about your sewing machine and sew simple items.