Sewing for Dummies
by Janice Saunders Maresh
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Book Summary Information
Author: Janice Saunders MareshEdition: Paperback
Audio: English (Original Language); English (Unknown); English (Published)
Published: 2004-08-11
ISBN: 0764568477
Number of pages: 408
Publisher: For Dummies
Book Reviews of Sewing for Dummies
Book Review: It's just okay
Summary: 3 Stars
I give this book 3 stars, which means "okay," because that's exactly how I feel about it. It's a decent reference for some sewing terms and basic techniques--not great, but it will give you the general idea.
The biggest thing that I do not like about it (aside from the annoying "for Dummies" trappings: puns/plays on words, a self-conscious "accessible" style, and frequent attempts at humor) is the really abysmal editing. It's actually unclear which edition the author is writing when, at the beginning of the book, she mentions that she does not cover sergers much but gives more serger-specific advice in the second edition--because this IS the second edition, and there is precious little serger-related instruction to be had. I was confused. In a later section, she promises to show three techniques for gathering ... and goes on to describe TWO. Then, mere paragraphs after that obvious editing oversight, I looked forward to learning what a pin tuck and shell tuck were, only to be disappointed when she only covered the plain tuck despite an introductory paragraph promising information on all three types. I actually checked to see that I wasn't missing pages!
Additionally I found some of the instructions very difficult to follow. The illustrations it does have are pretty helpful as sewing illustrations go, but there is more than one place where more illustrations are necessary, in my opinion.
In all ... if I knew of a better reference book I would have bought that one. I am about to go check Amazon for a better-reviewed book! Also I would like one with slightly more up-to-date learning projects; maybe it's just me but a vest made out of placemats just doesn't appeal. The window treatment techniques are also pretty dated--I was somewhat surprised to see a publication date of 2004 since all the photos seemed so mid-nineties.
I don't like this book much but perhaps its direct style (if scattered and only passably organized information) could help some. It's not a big deal either way; I mean I am sorry I spent $20 on it but I will probably turn to it in the future just because I have it.
Summary of Sewing for Dummies
Do you love to sew-or want to learn how? Then this book will have you in stitches in no time. There's nothing like the feeling of completing a project using beautiful fabrics and great timesaving tools and then sharing it with your family and friends. Plus, learning to sew will save you money too! Before long, you'll be stitching your own hems, repairing split seams, sewing on buttons, and much, much more.Sewing For Dummies is a book for both absolute beginners and experienced sewers. If you're a stone-cold beginner, you'll find everything you need to know to sew beginning-level projects-and the book doesn't assume that you've ever even picked up a needle and thread before. If you've had some experience with sewing, you'll find tips and tricks that it took author Janice Saunders Maresh, a nationally known sewing and serging instructor, years to pick up! You'll discover how to:
- Master hand and machine stitches
- Read a sewing pattern
- Hem a variety of fabrics
- Negotiate sleeves and pockets
- Install zippers, buttons, and other fasteners
- Shape garments with tucks and pleats
- Adjust projects for better fit and function
This updated edition features a fresh 8-page color insert of all the new home decorating projects, including new patterns and instructions for a traditional living room with slipcovered couches and throws; a French country dining room with drapes and slipcovered chairs; and a bedroom with shams, duvets, dustruffles, and window treatments, as well as:
- a bathroom with a shower curtain and towels
- hip and funky tote bags
- the perfect little black dress
Complete with lists of quick fix-it tools, sewing fundamentals, and sewing resources, Sewing For Dummies, 2nd Edition, is the fun and easy way? to get the basics and stitch up a storm in no time!
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