Reviews (13)

Three Decades is a Long Time Span
I purchased this book mostly to help date vintage fabrics from the 1930's, 1940's, 1950's and 1960's.I love the spiral binding.The swatch examples are awesome.The notes on color and styles are helpful.I do feel, however, that lumping 1930 through 1960 photos together with no notes does not really help to date the fabric accurately enough.

Quilt fabrics
This book would be of interest to quilters and those interested in dating quilts.The patterns are listed in colour headings under 20 to 30 year groupings eg 1880-1910 and there are several pages in front of each year grouping with details including the period, textile colours, fabric print styles and quilt styles.The pictures are in colour and the book spiral bound so it will lie flat easily when open - good for making comparisons of quilt material.

What a lovely book for anyone who loves vintage fabrics
I love repro fabrics for quilting but wanted to learn more about them.This is a particularly well done book, with good color and real-life sizing of the prints.Each period section begins with a few pages that covers what was happening in the period, what fabrics were popular, what quilt blocks and quilting patterns were popular, etc.There's also a bit on how the fabric was manufactured in that period.Fabrics before 1830 took an enormous amount of work and were basically done laboriously with hand-coloring and wood blocks -- very labor intensive process to produce prints.The prints they produced remind me (not surprisingly since India was the source of much of the cotton fabric then) of the gauzy prints from India that you still see today.There's a discussion of popular colors and dyes, and the fabrics are organized by color within each period section.Now I know what Turkey red is -- including where the dye came from, when it appeared, etc.
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Subjects:  1. Antiques / Collectibles    2. Color in the textile industrie    3. Color in the textile industries    4. Crafts & Hobbies    5. Dating    6. Hobbies/Crafts    7. Quilts    8. Quilts & Quilting    9. Reference - General    10. Sewing    11. Textile fabrics    12. Textiles & Costume    13. United States   

Reviews (3)

Tailoring: Classic Guide
I was looking for the original Singer "Tailoring" Book but evidently they no longer make it, and no one on EBAY is willing to sell it....so I looked into this book which has some great tailoring techniques and photos, but sadly it only covers jackets and not pants and skirts as well like the original Singer book did.sigh.
Copy of the Singer Reference Library
This Book is the best Book ever produced in regards to Tailoring with step by step instructions and lots of Pictures to follow. However I was hoping that this would be a different kind of Book than the one I already own. This is a reprint of the Singer Reference Library Book about Tailoring which was published in 1988. I was looking for this Book for many Years and I am glad to know that another Publisher seem to have aquired the rights to the Singer Books.

Strongly recommend!
"Tailoring : The Classic Guide to Sewing the Perfect Jacket" is the BEST book on sewing a classicly tailored jacket - and I have read ALL of them!There are step-by-step pictures and excellent explanations.I found it much easier and more helpful than the Cabrero text.The book explains both the hand couture and machine methods of jacket tailoring.To supplement this text I'd also recommend Mary Ellen Flury's book, "Tailoring Ladies Jackets" along with anything by Sandra Betzina and Kenneth D. King. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. Crafts / Hobbies    3. Fashion    4. Hobbies/Crafts    5. Jackets    6. Sewing    7. Tailoring (Women's)    8. Crafts & Hobbies / Sewing    9. Embroidery    10. Handicrafts   

Reviews (1)

Not just another pretty Fleece...
Polar Magic, third in the Polarfleece series by Nancy Cornwell, is a not only a great source of ideas, but also is a wealth of information for handling this tricky material. Read more

Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. Crafts / Hobbies    3. Hobbies/Crafts    4. Machine sewing    5. Polyester fibers    6. Sewing    7. Textile Arts - General    8. Fishing, angling   

Reviews (4)

Wonderful!
I love this book! It has some great patterns for little ones, with lots of good ideas. I am sewing from it everyday and it is a joy to use. It pays for itself aftermaking acouple of garments. Well illustrated and easy to follow instructions.
the best pattern set
I am an avid sewer. I have found that most of my toddler clothes are made from these patterns = simple to use and easy to fit. A few minor alterations and I have my Halloween costumes, dress up cloths, school clothes. This basic pattern set is all you need!

A Must Have!
Easy, quick, and fun to do. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies / Sewing    2. Hobbies/Crafts    3. Children's clothing    4. Crafts & Hobbies    5. Dressmaking & tailoring    6. How-To    7. Patterns    8. Toddler   

Reviews (5)

A beautiful book
I have not made anything yet from this book, but my fingers are itching to.It seems to give very good direction and a good start for your own ideas.

Great stuff
If you are looking for inspiration on 'how to' this is the book for you.Very generous with personal techniques develpoed.

A MUST HAVE
I love books and tend to buy a lot on whatever subject I am interested in. This has to be my favorite pick of the fiber art books I have read. My dream is to someday take a class from Joan Colvin. She is an incredible artist and her book has just the right balance of technique and inspiration. She is truly gifted, as is any artist and or quilter who is lucky enough to own this book. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. Crafts / Hobbies    3. Design    4. Hobbies/Crafts    5. Quilt Making    6. Quilting    7. Quilts    8. Quilts & Quilting    9. Sewing    10. Quiltmaking   

Reviews (17)

Artsy and eclectic and accessible to all
Rosemary's designs are stunning in their originality.When I first saw this book, all I could do was study all of the pictures over and over.These garments were just my style, and I almost put the book down, because surely they would be too difficult for a beginning sewer.Then as I started scanning her project guidelines, I was so pleased to see that while her finished garments look quite complex, her techniques are really deceptively uncomplicated and any sewer of any skill level who enjoys art to wear should add this book to their library.
Adventure in Stitch-Wishery
This book purports to be a guide to imaginative sewing - which it is - but it is much, much more.I found it to include some of the best instructions for fitting garments and adjusting patterns which I've seen anywhere.
art of fabric collage
Book was received very promptly and in excellent condition. No problems. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. Crafts / Hobbies    3. Hobbies/Crafts    4. Sewing    5. Textile Fabric (Applied Arts)    6. Collage    7. Crafts & Hobbies / General    8. Quiltmaking   

Reviews (5)

patchwork lover from new zealand
this was an excellent book with very easy to follow instructions.a must for beginners and old hands at patchwork alike.rosie

Easy to Learn
This book gives the most basic and detailed instructions on paper piecing. It's wonderful for the first timer, it includes the papers to make a wonderful quilt. My friend made one and hung it for Valentines day in red, pink and purple. Definite must have.

Carol's Book is Like Taking a Class!
I purchased Carol's book because I chose a very difficult fan design to use in a challenge quilt and needed to paper piece for accuracy.I had never tried to paper piece before because all the on-line instructions I found were contradictory and confusing.For me, this book was the best resource for learning to paper piece because the techniques are clearly shown in photos and instructions and the pre-printed papers for piecing are included.I normally learn best from a class where I can see techniques demonstrated, but this book is just like taking a class and my challenge quilt turned out perfect! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. Crafts / Hobbies    3. Hobbies/Crafts    4. Machine quilting    5. Patchwork    6. Patchwork quilts    7. Patterns    8. Quilts & Quilting    9. Sewing   

Reviews (2)

A Joy to own!
For anyone who loves teddy bear making as much as I do, this book is joy to own!Nancy Tillberg has included page after page of beautiful pictures of her work and demonstrates how to make your own teddy in easy step by step instructions.I own her first book (teddy bears with a past) and find her second book even more enjoyable than the first.A must have for any teddy bear artist to own.

Bear Makers New and Old: Buy This Book!!
I've been making bears for 20 years and this is the most complete book, most detailed, easy to understand book I have every seen.I have many bear making books, but now feel I can get rid of them and just use this one as a reference.Wonderful for the beginning bear maker or the very experienced.No matter what you will learn something new.The photos are spectacular.I used two of the lessons right away and will use many more. You can tell a very detailed and a lover of bears type person wrote this book. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. Crafts / Hobbies    3. Hobbies/Crafts    4. Sewing    5. Soft toy making    6. Stuffed Animals    7. Teddy bears    8. Toy Arts And Crafts    9. Toymaking - General    10. Soft toys   

Editorial Review

I felt as if I were being told interior design secrets that had been kept from me for years. Curtains have always been something I thought should be left to the experts -- or at least to J.C Penneys. But who better knows what a room needs than yourself? Some of the projects I especially enjoyed were how to make velvet rose tiebacks and a stained glass window shade and how to add painted effects to your curtains with stencils. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Great Book!
I found this book to helpful in several ways. It has detailed sewing instructions along with great sketches and photos. I have made several of the projects and have been happy with all of the results. I am an experienced sewer, but even a novice could follow these instructions. Unlike another reviewer I do not think it is outdated at all. It is filled with classic, traditional treatments as well as some unique ones, --not half brained or trash styles like you find on Trading Spaces. I love this book and am glad to have it in my collection.

The world's leading window decorating authority
I really like this book; it is beautifully illustrated and has some equally beautiful photos. I concur with some other comments that "it is not for the beginner." It is an elegant and well put together book. I do wish it had the "search inside" feature so you could see for yourself.
Beautiful Windows Designs
This book contained a lot of great ideas.Thanks!
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Subjects:  1. Crafts / Hobbies    2. Decorating - Windows    3. Draperies    4. Drapery    5. Hobbies/Crafts    6. Sewing    7. Textile Arts - General    8. Window shades    9. Fiction / Thrillers   

Subjects:  1. Clothing    2. Crafts & Hobbies    3. Crafts / Hobbies    4. Fashion    5. Hobbies/Crafts    6. Sewing    7. Crafts & Hobbies / Sewing    8. Needlework & fabric crafts   

Reviews (4)

This is a great resource guide to learning about pockets :)
This a good book, I always had problems with sewing pockets to my garments.It has good pictures to show you how to place pockets on your garments.It helps you express your creativity with your garments.You can make all kinds of pockets.I use this book whenever I want to do something different with my garments.Very Good book indeed.

Good Book To Have!!
This book offers a variety of ways to design pockets.Unlike like the traditional "patch pockets", you need this book especially if you desire new ideals!!

OK, but not too creative
I was expecting some more creativity.Ms. Moyes delivers with instructions on lots of basic pocket styles, but I was hoping for some exotic couture stuff.She gives directions on how to make a difficult curved welt pocket, which I've seen in couture, and shaped facings covering a pocket.If you're looking for a gallery with a lot of neat-o ideas: it's not in this book.Otherwise, it gives straightforward advice on straightforward pockets. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Clothing and dress    2. Crafts & Hobbies    3. Crafts / Hobbies    4. Dressmaking    5. Fashion    6. Hobbies/Crafts    7. Pockets    8. Sewing    9. Crafts & Hobbies / Sewing    10. Dressmaking & tailoring   

Reviews (2)

Ballroom Gowns and Lycra
This book is very helpful.It comes with an adjustable basic pattern and several design alterations.I'd buy it again.

Very helpful.
I found this book extremely helpful.I haven't sewn in years and started back sewing ice skating costumes with spandex.Spandex can be difficult to work with if you don't know what you are doing.This book really helped me get up to speed quickly.I would recommend it for anyone who is sewing with spandex. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies / Sewing    2. Crafts / Hobbies    3. Hobbies/Crafts    4. Sewing    5. Bathing Suits    6. Crafts & Hobbies    7. Dressmaking & tailoring    8. Home Economics - Sewing    9. How-To    10. Patterns    11. Swimwear   

Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. Crafts / Hobbies    3. Hobbies/Crafts    4. Needlework - Embroidery    5. Sewing    6. Textile arts   

Reviews (4)

Great Transaction!
the book was in good condition! shipping was a little slow, but still reasonable. thanks for a great experiance!

You need this book!
This is one of the few books which I regard as a bible in the world of sewing and fashion design. I was a clothing designer in the garment industry for 15 years and am now a professor of fashion design. I tell my students that they need to own this book if they are at all interested in continuing in the business of making clothes. This answers all those questions about how to handle, construct, and use different materials and fabrics.

Fabric Sewing Guide
This book has become the most important book to me when making clothes. Using it before starting saves from many troubles. It not only explains how different fabrics behave, what threads and needles to use, but gives an extensive view also of the types of seams and finishes to use. The included hints are really valuable, giving a lot of inside information and experience. This book really saves time, material and patience. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. Crafts / Hobbies    3. Dressmaking    4. Fabrics    5. General    6. Hobbies/Crafts    7. Sewing    8. Textile fabrics    9. Needlework & fabric crafts   

Reviews (3)

Great Book!
I haven't sewed in years, and I have already made 2 outfits that look perfect!The instructions are very easy to follow. This is a good way to get back into sewing.

Fun Fashions for AG Dolls
This book is great. My daughter loves to study the designs.Attractive photos, relatively simple patterns and instructions.Great way to augment your American Girl's wardrobe!

Amazing Results and So Much Fun
I have very limited sewing experience. In fact, I have never successfully completed an adult sized article. Nevertheless, I have been very successful in creating several outfits from this book.Working with this size is much more manageable than either full-sized clothing or Barbie-doll size clothing.
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Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. Crafts / Hobbies    3. Hobbies/Crafts    4. Sewing    5. Toymaking - General   

Reviews (7)

A real artist!
Fabric Journey: An Inside Look at the Quilts of Ruth B. McDowell is a splendid example of the evolution of a quilt and quilting process of a talented artist. It is not a book that contains patterns for quilters to make themselves.
Look with new eyes..
This book challenged my ideas of fabric pattern and colour use, and had me go out to the garden with a digital camera to capture flowers and then enlarge the result to examine them towards designing my own quilt.The ideas presented by Ruth appear to be adaptable towards any type of pictorial or emotional art quilt,a truly valuable acquisition.

Excellent page by page of instruction
This is such a well illustrated book, I am so pleased wiht it.I have been doing challenge quilts for several years, and this adds so much knowledge to my brain for different approaches to the projects.Wonderful pictures, and side notes.Would reccommend it to anyone interested in stepping out of the box in thier quilting.
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Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. Crafts / Hobbies    3. Hobbies/Crafts    4. Patchwork    5. Patterns    6. Quilt Making    7. Quilting    8. Quilts & Quilting    9. Sewing    10. Quiltmaking   

Editorial Review

Those who knit, crochet, or embroider have long had sources to which to turn for in-depth instructions on specific stitches and stitch combinations. Now there is such a reference for the sewer--an encyclopedic approach to gathering, shirring, ruffling, tucking, pleating, and quilting and their myriad variations. Filled with hundreds of diagrams and crisp black-and-white photos, this volume explains in detail how to achieve a tremendous range of three-dimensional fabric effects. This is not a book of particular projects; this is a book of instruction and inspiration for anyone who has ever wielded needle and thread.Read more

Reviews (10)

The Art of Manipulating Fabric
I have been using and working with fabric for nearly 20 years and have still been able to learn some thing from this book it is easy to read and full of easy instructions that make using this so easy and to have such arange of effects all in the one book. Really fantastic

Amazing. Wow.Just "wow."
Okay, I know next to nothing about sewing.I am a sewing Gumby.But my niece is an incredibly gifted fashion designer, and I have to constantly badger her to let me know if there is ANYTHING I can get for her, or ANY WAY I can help her.This book is one of the few things she has briefly mentioned in passing as something she might like.(I took that to mean something indispensable to the pursuit of her career as she is so shy to ask for assistance.)I had the book sent to my place rather than directly to her, just so I could see it, and my first reaction as a non-sewing type of person was "OH My Goodness, I had no IDEA they could do that with fabric!"I meant to send it to her as soon as I received it, but it was so fascinating, even as a non-seamstress, that I shamefullyretarded the delivery to its rightful owner by at least a week.I took it to my friend's house so she could see it.I even showed it to my boyfriend (for whom absolutely NO craft manual could ever hold an interest), and he even exclaimed "My goodness, babe!I had no idea fabric could this!I have to say this is amazing..."
Good for reference & inspiration, but......
I had researched this book at a local bookstore for a few days before purchasing it used on Amazon.com. The illustrations in this book had me inspired immediatly. However, applying the various applications can be difficult.Finding the how-to's (a bit vague at best) that accompany the pictures are very difficult.Good for reference/inspiration, poor for actual how-to. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. Crafts / Hobbies    3. Fancy work    4. Fashion    5. Hobbies/Crafts    6. Quilting    7. Sewing    8. Textile Arts - General    9. Handicrafts    10. Textile arts   

Reviews (3)

Excellent overview for the items you're most likely to make
I bought my first house six months ago. My house needs curtains, seat cushions, wall hangings. And I'm new to all of this; while I'm just-past-novice at sewing and quilting, I've never even paid attention to how one constructs a pillow.
Best Home Decor Sewing Book
This book is fantastic!It covers how-tos on all the basics!My experience with these kinds of books is that they'll show you how to make ruffled valances and rosette pillows, but never cover the basics, like how to make a cloth shade or a simple removable pillow case (ie. sans buttons and zippers which can intimidate the beginner). This book has it all, and also great hints for making the kinds of minor modifications that make a pillow/curtain truly "special."The best homedeco sewing book I've seen.

Very detailed instructions
Very helpful book, very informative and detailed instructions. You'll not regret getting it. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. Crafts / Hobbies    3. Decorating - Upholstery/Fabrics    4. Hobbies/Crafts    5. Sewing    6. Needlework & fabric crafts    7. Soft furnishings   

Subjects:  1. Beauty & Grooming - Fashion    2. Crafts & Hobbies    3. Crafts / Hobbies    4. General    5. Hobbies/Crafts    6. Sewing    7. Equestrian & animal sports   

Reviews (7)

"baby" doll book
I was not aware (or did not read fully) this is about baby dolls not art dolls which I consider to mostly be adult-ish.

Many Dolls, one look
This is a book of patterns and tips.The dolls are all virtually the same, chubby baby-faced toddlers. There is a male and female version.The infant is the same as the toddler but can not stand.The adult (pictured on the cover) is just slightly thiner and longer then the children.If you are looking for variety, these dolls are pretty much the same (they all look related to the one on the cover) and they are all conservatively or classicly styled.I recommend the book for those interested in the learning the basics of makeing a "baby doll".If you want any other style of cloth doll (such as artisan) you will be disappointed in the constraints of the styling and you will be forced to find inspiration for your imagination elsewhere.Probably more like 3 stars.

What a great book!
I've been making dolls since I was 11, and this is the book I've been looking for all my life. Worth three times what you pay. The cover does not do it justice. It has soft sculpture faces that are beautiful and natural. Usually soft sculpture dolls look like old people, trolls or are distorted. There is a baby doll that I am going to double size to make it the size of a real baby, so I can have it wear old clothes. The clothes are also beautiful and easy. Make yourself an heirloom. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Crafts & Hobbies    2. Crafts / Hobbies    3. Dolls    4. Hobbies/Crafts    5. Sewing    6. Stuffed Animals