Book Club
It’s always a treat to find time to relax with a good book. This issue, we have
found two wonderful reads that every sewer is sure to love.
A Beginner’s Guide to Machine Sewing
By Clementine Collinet
This easy-to-follow, comprehensive guide is perfect
for beginner sewers who want to get the most out of
their sewing machine. With over 15 fabulous projects
to make, from the simple to the more complex,
including cushions, shoulder bags, soft toys and
quilts, you’ll be sewing happily away for hours! You
will fi nd full-size, fold-out patterns accompanying
the projects, along with 50 illustrated step-by-step
instructions. As well as learning how to use a sewing
machine to create a range of projects, this guide
also provides you with a list of equipment that you
will need to begin your sewing journey, as well as a
helpful glossary of common sewing terms.
Beginners can trust that they are in safe hands
with this invaluable guide, written by Clémentine
Collinet who has been a professional children’s
illustrator producing pictures, games and books for
toddlers for over 15 years. About 10 years ago she
discovered the wonderful world of fabrics and began
designing and making soft toys, mobiles and other
toys for children. Clémentine is inspired by fabrics
and enjoys creating personalised gifts and designs
for others. This book isn’t just for beginners though- even experienced sewers will be able to expand
their knowledge and fi nd exciting new ideas and
inspirations in this handy guide.
Handbook of Sewing Stitches
By Lorna KnightWritten by textile specialist Lorna Knight, beginners
will fi nd easy-to-follow instruction in basic skills,
guided by clear photographs and diagrams, while
advanced sewers can use the book to fi nd information
on stitches, techniques, and fabrics they have not
thought of using before. This brilliant books covers
hand stitches, machine stitches and decorative stitches,
and it also includes a comprehensive Stitch Directory
which features both functional and decorative stitches.
There is also a Textile Directory, which is packed full of
information that will help you work with more than 70
fabrics, from delicate chiffon and lace to heavy-duty
corduroy and denim, with advice on the properties and
handling qualities of each, and tips on suitable stitches
and applications.
Every stitcher is bound to fi nd something useful in this
practical little book. You will learn various methods for
attaching sequins and beads, as well as zigzag stitching,
blind hemming and gathering for those who are not
confi dent using machines yet. While this is an ideal book
for beginners, more experienced stitchers are also sure
to fi nd a lot of good tips and techniques here too.