My Favorite Sewing Book
Not a new book, but I do want to give a shout out to this wonderful sewing book by Diana Rupp, The Sew Everything Workshop. I sewed with my mother and family friends when I was young, but lost the thread (so to speak). When I decided to give sewing a try as an adult, I needed a serious refresher course. And this book was just wonderful.
S.E.W. addresses a lot of basics for sewing, starting from the beginning. But Diana Rupp has a light touch and leads you through some rather challenging techniques without you even knowing it. Imgaine my surprise when I finished the Tokyo Tie Bag and realized I had sucessfully completed french seams!
The book comes with many patterns and very concise, step by step instructions, clear illustrations and photos, and whimsical tone to boot. The projects in the book are cute, hip and wearable. And the capelet makes a great gift.
I can’t speak to how much value the book might have for more accomplished sewers, but it is far and away the best book for beginners (or those who are rusty) that I’ve come across.
If you haven’t already, check this book out at Amazon:
Also, for those of you in NYC, Diana Rupp is the founder of make workshop, located on the Lower East Side. She teaches classes there, and while I haven’t had the opportunity to take any, I really, really would love to. Check out the make website for class schedules:
If you have used this book or have other fantastic books you would like to recommend, leave a comment below!