Synopses & Reviews
The first needles were made from cattle bone and used to sew animal hides together with lengths of sinew. Between then and now, people have sewn clothes for warmth, tents for shelter, sails for voyages of exploration, and flags for nations. It could be argued that a needle and thread in a skilled pair of hands has played as great a part in civilization as the
invention of the wheel.
However, as everyday items around the home, needles and thread are mere clutter until we unlock their potential – together with our own – and master the basic techniques of sewing. This book has been prepared with beginners in mind, providing a step-by-step illustrated guide from threading a needle and learning basic stitches, to cutting and shaping fabric, and machine sewing with confidence. Whether you are just starting to sew or would like a refresher, this book aims to be a handy reference.
There are sections on all types of equipment; threads, fabrics and trimmings; how to read paper patterns; and what goes into making a garment. One complete part is devoted to the sewing machine, especially useful nowadays when more and more households are investing in one. Other sections deal with smaller but important matters such as making repairs, using a seam gauge or inserting a zip. Finally, the book contains three easy projects for you to practice your sewing skills, before embarking on the more ambitious ones you have planned.
Synopsis
Covers equipment, threads, fabrics and trimmings. Includes 3 practice projects plus a step-by-step illustrated guide on threading a needle, basic stitches, cutting and shaping fabric, and machine sewing.
Synopsis
Sewing is a timeless craft that is easy to learn - whether you're learning for practical reasons so you can mend and repair clothing or for creative reasons so you can create your own designs from scratch. Written for the absolute beginner, as well as those looking for a refresher course, Sewing includes three projects with straightforward instructions, as well as a step-by-step illustrated guide on threading a needle, reading a pattern, basic stitches, cutting and shaping fabric, and machine sewing with confidence. Included are sections on choosing the right equipment, a glossary of terms and abbreviations, and how to take care of your homemade products. Sewing will provide you with skills that will last a lifetime.
About the Author
Charlotte Gerlings is an expert in several art mediums, including needlecraft and fabric arts. She graduated in Publishing from Oxford Polytechnic (now Oxford Brookes University) and since then has worked as a book designer, writer and editor. She lives in South West London and is currently studying at Wimbledon School of Art for her MA in Fine Art. She is the author of several books, including Sewing, Patchwork, Cross Stitch, Knitting and Crochet, and 100 Great Artists.
Table of Contents
Introduction Part 1: Equipment and Materials Equipment Needles, pins and cutting tools Thread Fabric The sewing machine Paper patterns Notions Part 2: Hand Sewing Methods and Techniques Threading a needle Straight sewing stitches Sewing an open seam Sewing an encased seam Curves and corners Mending Using a seam/hem gauge Hemming Casings PROJECT: Drawstring favour bag Binding Gathering and pleating Smocking Waistbands and cuffs Openings and fastenings Making a hand-sewn buttonhole Attaching set-in sleeves Trimming: Beads, sequins and bows PROJECT: Apron Trimming: Edgings, rouleau and applique Part 3: Machine Sewing Methods and Techniques A basic border Assembly Finishing Part 4: Applique and Quilting Threading the sewing machine The bobbin The importance of tension Troubleshooting Stitch length and width Machining special fabrics Machining an encased seam Machined seam finishes Making darts Shaped facings Inserting a zip fastener Topstitching Machining a buttonhole Shirring Making piping [cording] PROJECT: Dachshund draught excluder Laundry and aftercare Sewing terms