Product Description
Learn how to make a "Consumer Price List", and how to structure a "Working Price List" and the use of both. Plus what "Pricing" method is best for you and how to handle price resistance. Gain knowledge on how to conduct production analysis with a time and motion study; and how to make a project inventory list. The book includes tips on how to market your business through cost effective methods, and how to expand your business through goods and services, diversification, price increases, and more. Discover how to set up a mail-order business. Plus, tips to determine if you need employees, subcontractors or fabricators and how to hire them. Also includes: E-commerce and on-line merchant accounts, web design, shopping carts and E-newsletters. Find out how to write books and articles, teach seminars and workshops, and produce sewing audios and videos to gain additional profit and much more. *Extensive Resource Directory, charts, illustrations and graphs included.

Note: The "Business" Of Sewing: Vol. 1, is available in this dynamic series and has additional information not included in this book.

The "Business" of Sewing has received rave reviews from: Nancy Zieman of Sewing With Nancy, McCall's and Simplicity, LA Times and more. All three editions of The "Business" Of Sewing continue to be our best sellers.

Be sure to see all of Barbara Wright Sykes Sewing For Profit products.

Barbara Wright Sykes sewing for profit BOOKS:
Do You Sew For Profit: Wholesale, Retail, Consignment
Marketing Your Sewing Business
Pricing Without Fear
The "Business" Of Sewing Vol. 1
The "Business" Of Sewing Vol. 2
The "Business" Of Sewing

FORMS offered here for sewing professionals:
Forms On Computer Disc
Home Decor - Interior Design Forms
The Marketing Forms CD
Marketing Graphics Forms
Deluxe Marketing Forms

The "Business" Of Sewing on AUDIO CD series:
Take The Fear Out Of Pricing
Marketing Your Sewing Business
The "Business" Of Sewing
The "Business" Of Sewing Audio Album (Get all 3 and save).

Be sure to see Barbara's new book: Good Lovin' Ain't Easy ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Just a copy of Volumn 1
I purchased Volumn 1 and 2 at the same time thinking that 2 would have more information, but whole chapters were copied word for word from volumn 1.The only new information was a chapter on how to charge for home interior work.

Both books are great but do not buy both.I think these books are self published.I feel like I was ripped off by the author, so I question her advice about business practices.I will never buy another one of her books.

Helpful
Much like Vol. 1, this book is full of useful information.The author organizes it well and conveys the material in a concise manner. ... Read more

Product Description
This is the complete guide to sewing, patchwork and embroidery. Whether you are cutting out a pattern, turning hems or deciding which type of zipper or seam to use, comcise instructions guide you through each stage, one step at a time. ... Read more

Product Description
Whether you're looking to sew a few new pillows for yoursofa or to decorate a bare room, Sewing for the Home is exactly whatyou need. Packed with instructions for more than 50 classic home decoritems, this book is one that will be used for years to come. The bookbegins with the basics of sewing for your home, including informationon fabric, fiber and color selections, sewing machine equipment andnotions, timesaving tips and advice.

The rest of the book is divided into four sections.

1. Windows-Offers a wide range of treatments, including tab top curtains, rod-pocket curtains, pinch-pleated drapes, and Roman shades.

2. Pillows-Covers forms and fillings, closures and cushions, andhow-to's for many different pillow designs.

3. Tables-Includes instructions for a variety of tablecloths,placemats and cloth napkins.

4. Bed & Bath-Covers information on creating a new comforter, shams,dust ruffles and even shower curtains. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Like New!
This book was sold as used but was like new.Received it quickly.Very satisfied customer.

Do it yourself...
This is a DIY guide about sewing for the home. There is details, step by step, and very clear explanation about this kind of work. But you have to know basic concepts about sewing, of course!

Home Decor
Too many curtains/drapes & not enough other home decor items.A nicely done book in all if that's what you're looking for.

Sewing for the Home
Bought as a gift for my daughter, at her request. From quickly looking through it, it seemed up to date in terms of projects and techniques.

This Is The Book To Start With!
I've been sewing for many years, and I've only made the simplest of things for my home, namely plain curtains and throw pillows. I wanted to learn to do a proper job on curtains and drapes. I bought 4 books, this being one of them.

This book is an absolute great starter. Learn right away what kind of tools you will need, how to measure the windows, what kind of stitches you will need to use, just all kinds of fabulous get-down-to-basics information. Then learn how to properly construct your curtains.

This book includes basic curtains and drapes, shades, decorator pillows, table fashions and finally shower curtains and comforter covers and bedskirts. Projects are well photographed and detailed.

If you are a novice sewer or just want reference materials for your sewing library, this book and the next book, "More Sewing For The Home", are a great place to start. The second book covers things the first did not, and the projects are a little more sophisticated. I highly recommend both books. ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (7)

Better than most
Easy to understand instructions and historical background make this how to book a pleasure.This one is a keeper.

Best Resource Available!
Whether you sew doll clothes or Victorian costumes, this book is the best resource to have! It covers the entire Victorian era, describing the chosen costumes in great detail. It discusses the general shapes of each period, what undergarments were used, what fabrics were popular, what details to add, what accessories to use.

There is a wonderful section on handsewing, showing you how to use period sewing techniques, plus sewing specific to the Victorian period, such as piping. Another section shows you how to finish your seams -- French seams, flat felling, etc. The patterns are clear and easy to size up or down. The diagrams are excellent, clearly showing you each step.

I make oaak fashion dolls, and sew Victorian costume for myself, and I find myself opening this book at some point during every project!

ARave Review
Sewing Victorian Doll Clothes is a wonderful source book for historical costumes with a wide range of workable patterns.
It is a wonderful reference for the doll collector who is interested in recreating historically correct clothes for china or bisque dolls.The range of styles in broad, and the instructions are clear even for the novice at sewing.Without question, this is one of the finest books on this subject that it is possible to find.It is worth every dollar spent.

Delightful and Helpful - a must for Heirloom sewing!
This is a wonderful book with many illustrations. There are extensive patterns, wonderful details, could go a little more in-depth with the patterns and have a little more variety of Victorian clothing. A wonderful book, it is a must for the heirloom sewing library!

This is the pattern book I have needed for years!
I have now tried most of the patterns in this wonderful book, and evenwith my limited sewing skills, I have been very pleased with my results.Ihave particularly enjoyed the tips for constructing clothes withoutpatterns.The simple smock dress idea works well for my Ginnys, as well asfor my composition baby dolls and small antique bisque dolls.I'm lookingforward to learning to make hats and purses.I have a stack of old leathergloves just waiting to be made into the darling shoes pictured in the lastchapter of the book. ... Read more

Product Description
Jazz up garments, accessories, and home furnishings with a few simple stitches and easy sewing tricks that don't require a lot of time or expense. Decorative Sewing opens a world of fun, funky, and glamorous possibilities with embroidery, appliqué, patchwork, and beading by demonstrating a handful of basic sewing techniques. Even needlework novices can master the tricks of fabric manipulation and embellishment with this clearly illustrated, helpful guide that teaches a variety of hand- and machine-sewing techniques.

Learn how to do 20 exciting, easy-to-work projects with the help of clear, step- by-step instructions paired with colorful how-to photos. Get started by getting to know some all- purpose sewing equipment. Then move on to fun, useful projects, such as satin- stitched bed linens, a quick-and-easy patchwork lap throw, and a dazzling beaded tote.

Throughout this handy guide you'll find "Sew Smart Tips" that highlight the most efficient methods to achieve stunning results. For inspiration beyond the projects, each technique has its own "Gallery of Ideas," with photographs showcasing an array of applications.
... Read more

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Customer Reviews (1)

Great book, great sellar
The book was in perfect shape, it came quickly and the price was great! Thanks ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (37)

As a new-medium experienced sewer, I loved this book!
I have technically been sewing for 20 years...With a 15 year break.There are so many tips in this book that I remember my Mom going over with me when I was 10, but now that I'm 30, I just didn't remember.I originally checked this book out of our local library on a whim.I didn't know what all was in it, but that maybe it would have some advice on something I hadn't seen before.Well, it actually did have stuff I needed right then and there.I was making a suit jacket for my husband's halloween costume and while I normally have no problem following the pattern directions, for some reason, this wasn't working for me.I glanced through this book and it had a whole section on tailoring!

Honestly, the first time through the book, it took maybe 2 hours to take in everything.Most of it, I didn't need at the time, but I could see the uses for it.As soon as I got home, I decided to order the book for myself and take the library copy back.I have used it once and I will use it again, I am sure quite soon.

It also goes through a few of the seewing tools that experienced sewers may be used to, but my Mom never had.There are some that make life a bit easier that I didn't know about, like the sewer's ham for ironing.

great book!
I am very excited about the condition and care my book came to me in. I can't wait to get started!!!

Nice book for beginners
This is a nice book for beginners definitely. I am a book fiend and I also craft and I like to have good reference books handy. This isn't really any better than the Readers Digest Sewing book from the 70's. It's got nice color pictures but isn't THAT informative. It's just a nice book to have around for reference.

Nice book
The book contains mainly photos, very little text, but this was I was looking for, because I did not know how to do some simple sweing stuff.

Excellent for all levels of sewing expertise!
I bought this book for my daughter-in-law to go with the sewing machine I gave her for Christmas.I looked through it before I wrapped it and knew that this would be perfect for her.I have been sewing for almost 40 years and I liked this book so much that I am considering getting one for myself as well!!
... Read more

Product Description
More Sewing for the Home is a helpful planning and coordinating guide for the do-it-yourself home decor sewer. You'll find tips and techniques used by professional designers to help you plan and decorate in your own unique style. The first section covers developing a home decorating plan, how to mix prints and colors, and how to select the appropriate fiber and finish for the project, as well as construction basics and designer tips.

The rest of the book is divided into three sections.

1. Window Treatments-Shows how-to's for creating tent-flap curtains, tapered valances, padded cornices, and more.

2. Cushions & Pillows-Covers every style such as tie-tab pillows, mock box pillows, and trendy double-flange pillows.

3. Bed & Bath-Includes step-by-step instructions for duvet covers, futon covers, and sink & vanity skirts, and shower curtains.

Colorful photographs show how your project should look at each step ofconstruction, ensuring success. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Home Decor
Too many patterns for curtains & drapes & not enough other home decor items.Book is well done, just not enough of what I'm looking for.

Good Mix of Projects
I also bought the "Sewing For The Home" book, which is a little more basic, but has far more pillow styles that you can sew. The two books combined are very good references for small projects that you can sew for your home in any room, including the bath.

This book has more projects included (than the first book) that you can sew for your bedroom. There are also suggestions on how to use sheets for your bedroom sewing projects, duvet covers, pleated bedskirts, table covers, etc.

My original intent in getting the books was to learn to sew curtains and drapes. The first book gives you very good basics, but this one goes just a little bit further. I wanted to learn to pleat my own drapes, and this book is the one that shows you how to do that without using pleater tape.

The instructions and photographs in both books are very clear and easy to follow, step by step. There are photos of all the projects in final place, so that you can see what they should look like when complete, and they are somewhat inspirational (idea-wise).

I've been sewing since I was a youngster, and thought I knew a lot, but these books have taught me a great deal. I now look forward to my projects looking professionally done. BTW, most of the things in these books are easy enough for a sewing novice with a desire to learn, to accomplish successfully.

Both books are very good, cover slightly different subjects, and I would recommend that if you buy one, that you buy the other. Between them, they cover just about anything you probably want to sew for your home.

Fabulous instructions for classic designs.
Although the fabric choices in the pictures are dated, the designs and projects are CLASSIC(swags and jabots, cornices, padded headboards, pinch pleated drapes, bedskirts, pillows and duvet covers...). The step by step,illustrated instructions are VERY easy to follow.

Singer's "More Sewing for the Home" saves you $$!
While many of the books in the Singer Sewing Reference Library are very good, I have found the "Sewing for the Home" series of the books to be the best.These books are lavishly illustrated, with detailed color photographs of every step of the sewing process for home decor items.After purchasing this book, I was able to create lovely custom home decor projects at huge cost savings over custom-made or purchasing ready made items.Even a beginner can achieve very good results with home decor projects using the instructions and methods found in this book.If you are interested in home decor sewing, then you should add this book to your sewing library ... Read more

Product Description

Product Description
A guide for beginners and experienced users, this provides advice on how to sew various fabrics; describes a range of stitches and their potential uses; includes sewing tips, shortcuts and techniques for professional finishes and for the most economic use of materials as well as time-saving methods. Instructions are included for decorative techniques suitable for a particular type of fabric and there is also advice on buying a new machine together with a chart showing the most notable sewing features of some popularly used sewing machines. The book aims to give users the confidence to exploit their machines to their full potential. Ann Ladbury's television presentations include "Dressmaker", "Weekend Wardrobe" and "Children's Wardrobe". ... Read more

Product Description
Behind-the-scenes tips from the top designers with easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions. Spiral Bound. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Most Comprehensive Book
Sandra Betzina has written this book as a follow-up to her outstanding book Power Sewing Step By Step.These are the books to get for whatever level of seamstress that you are.These books use hundreds of techniques and ideas from Sandra.It provides behind the scene tips on the step-by-step techniques used by many of the top designers, including: where and when to interface; how to tailor a $1200 jacket; changes you need to make on commercial patterns to eliminate problems before you begin to sew; nuances of getting pants to fit; gaining control of chiffon, microfiber, crepe, cashmere, and velvet under the needle and press; make welt pockets flawlessly in twenty minutes. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (1)

Singer "Updated" sewing
I LOVE my ole Singer products.... well, i loved their products when they were made in the USA & were the Singer Company.

Singer is now just a cheap 'budget brand' under the SVP company, that is mainly sold at discount retailers.... pretty much gone are their HIGH end quality machines, with classic trademark Singer features. Gone is the Singer shop & service.... bring in the DISPOSABLE machines made in China, that will last 2 to 5 years!

This book is a COLLECTION / COMPILATION of sewing techniques that were mainly photographed in the 80's & 90's, that were part of the Singer Sewing Library series.

They added a few new photos to show what a NEW Singer machine looks like- think 'cheap white plastic'. The majority of the pics are recycled- the machines used in the pics are mostly their old high-end machines, with slant needles, & wind in place bobbins.

It is overall a VERY nice book.... & yes i will recommend it! However, if you really know your Singer machines, you will see there is very little new in this book.... unless you count that scary cheap plastic Singer in the first few pages!

It is really SAD to see what has happened to one of the great American companies.
... Read more

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Customer Reviews (21)

Lots of Green for Your Green!
Thanks Betz for this fabulous book!Your creativephilosophy is compelling and is brought to life by your great choices of projects and products!The projects featured in the book are approachable by the beginner sewist (I bought the book for my friend who is a beginner) but as I was readingthe book(before I gave it to her, naughty!) I had a million ideas about how to use Betz's ideas in new and different ways!I also had the opportunity to see and touch ALL the projects featured in the book at a trunk show in Washington DC.....and,no exaggeration, the projects look as terrific in person as they do in the book!Buy five and give them to every sewist and would-be sewist you know!

A really good book!
I must admit I collect sewing books and was some what skeptical about this book. But to be honest I really really like. the water bottle bag and few other project make the book worth it.Although, I wished it had more projects.

I have bought most of the sewing books available through amazon and has sent back a bunch, i only keep what is really worth. This one made the cut.

Had what I was looking for!
I've been looking for some back to school sewing projects and found them in this books: lunch bag, bottle holder, and sandwich wrap!

There are multiple projects that used recycled wool sweaters. Too bad I don't have many of those, but of course I could just as easily purchase wool for them if I was so inclined.These projects include pillows, blanket, booties, and scarf.I think the only one that I will make is the house booties for my daughter from last year's sweaters.The rest of the recycled wool projects require more than one sweater, which I don't have.

The remaining projects which include bags, skirts, baby items, car sunshade, wallet, picnic blanket, I doubt I will make but some may really enjoy them.

Because we love thrifting and repurposing so much...
This is a great book for me AND my kids (daughter 11 and son 6), who both started thrifting with me at an early age.The reason:there are several great instructional projects for them!My son handsews and could easily make the scarf on the cover and the coasters and trivet.My daughter has just learned to machine sew... the pillowcase skirt and dress, and the organic baby quilt and washies are fairly simple yet give great results.They could easily collaborate on the applique pillows and the produce bags (they could even cut veggies to use for stamping).All in all this is one fantastic book!

Sewing Green
Best book ever with tons of ideas for great projects. Everyone should get this, if you like to sew, that is! ... Read more

Product Description
The Complete Idiot's Guide To Sewing covers everything from sewing on a button and hemming to making pillows and drapes to designing and making a whole wardrobe. This book is the perfect resource for beginners or more experienced seamstresses and tailors who need a refresher course before tackling new projects. You'll find tips and shortcuts on using patterns and fabrics, supplies and tools, sewing machines, and more. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

No Substance, No Style
Complete Idiot's Guide to Sewing / 0-02-863891-3

This is, in my opinion, a very poor introduction to sewing. I am still largely a beginner when it comes to sewing clothing, although I am very familiar with my machine after years of quilting, and I found this book to be mostly a waste of good time and money.

The organization of material here is very poor, and does not lend itself to easy learning. Concepts are scattered throughout the book, separately by chunks of unnecessary and annoying 'anecdotes' of how many loose threads the author can find around her house on a given day. Like the stereotypical tenured professor reaching retirement age, she rambles on and over the subject, trampling over useful subjects (how do I sew zippers properly?) in favor of unhelpful monologues on the importance of organizing your sewing room effectively (read: exactly like she does) to save time.

I can honestly say that, despite having a leg up by already being familiar with my machine, I do not feel that I've learned anything from this book at all and concepts that were already clear to me were actually rendered deeply confusing by several of the poorly illustrated techniques in this book. The only thing of value here is the final "Suggested Gifts" section, which has some nice ideas, but most of that could be found on the internet these days, with a minimum of searching. Pass on this book, is my advice.

Unclear...Very UNhelpful
I'd have to agree with most of the negative reviews here.I have just acquired a sewing machine and am trying to teach myself to sew.I knew absolutely nothing about sewing and thought the idiot's guide would be for me.Most of the instructions are unclear, even the diagrams need help!I think better illustrations or pictures would help immensely.If you are a beginner like me, I would not recommend this book.

Don't waste your money
I thought I'd get this book to help me (beginner sewer) - I found this book to be completely frustrating as it doesn't seem to go into enough detail and there are just not enough pictures.I plan to return it and buy something that goes more into depth.

Wonderfully Helpful!
I am an absolute beginner, and I am so glad I found this book. I mean it, I can't say enough good things about it. First of all, the author writes with a sense of humor; it's like having a buddy sitting next to you, giving you great advice and laughing with (not at) you for your mistakes, and sharing her own early sewing disasters. Each chapter starts with a list of what will be included, and ends with a follow-up that hits all the important points. Then there are little boxes throughout, that remind the reader of definitions, recommend items to buy for a particular project, or warn of common mistakes. Ms. Wills assumes you know absolutely NOTHING about sewing, which is so great, because she explains EVERYTHING! For the beginner, this book absolutely takes the fear out of sewing! I've been keeping it right next to my new sewing machine as I tackle my first project, checking it often, and I highly, highly recommend it.

Follow up: I made a shirt!! This is so cool!

Great for Beginners
Very thorough book for those of us who know absolutely nothing about sewing.The style is the traditional lighthearted Idiot's Guide format, making it a fun and easy, yet very informative, read. ... Read more

Product Description
The most complete guide to sewing basics

People are always looking for ways to cut expenses and be creative and stylish at the same time. Learning to sew is a great way to arm yourself with the skills to repair and create clothing and furnishings for yourself and your family for little to no cost. But learning how to sew and how to choose the tools and supplies to begin sewing can be confusing.

Now, you can turn to this hands-on, friendly guide for the most up-to-date information, the best techniques, and fun projects for learning (or brushing up on) the art of sewing.

• Easy-to-follow instructions and step-by-step illustrations make it easier to learn
• Fresh new patterns, projects, stitches, and techniques for fashion and the home
• Budget-conscious tips for breathing new life into existing garments

Complete with a section on common sewing mistakes and how to avoid them, Sewing For Dummies, 3rd edition gives you the confidence and know-how to sew like a pro. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (59)

Disappointing for this complete beginner
I have recently begun teaching myself to sew.I taught myself knitting over the last several years and always keep the Knitting for Dummies book by my side as a reference for anything I don't know.So when I decided to learn to sew I bought myself a simple machine and this book.I've been sewing for a couple of weeks now and have read probably 3/4th of this book and I'm disappointed with it.I don't think the instructions are very clear for a newbie and many of the topics are covered way too briefly. On my first pattern, for example, it instructed me to "narrow hem," a common sewing task.Looking in the index of this book there is no entry for narrow hem.I knew I had read something in the book about using a narrow hem foot in order to make a narrow hem, but when I looked for detailed instructions for how to do that, I found nothing.I had to resort to a google search to find clear directions for doing a narrow hem both with and without a special foot.

I also find many of the directions unclear and there are not enough illustrations or the illustrations are not clear enough for me to understand what I'm supposed to do.And I think I'm better than average at understanding written instructions since I managed to teach myself to do quite complex knitting from mostly written instructions.

The projects in this book are ok, but most of them are not my style.They have a country craft feel to them that is too old for me.I prefer hip, youthful, DIY style projects.I did find her instructions for a basic pillow cover useful, but again, I wished the instructions were more clear in a couple places.As for making a vest out of placemats, I think I'll skip that one.

I found the manual that came with my machine more useful in actually getting me started sewing.This book has helped some, but from now on I'm going to rely on the internet for instructions.And I'll probably be buying a different book with more appealing starter projects.

Not all I was hoping for...
After careful review of many different books, I chose this one.While it has a lot of information, I was specifically looking for a book on how to alter/"fit" clothing that is too big or small.I have very little sewing experience, so from a sewing basics standpoint, this book is a good choice, as it will give you a little (I stress the word little) information on many different sewing topics.

I felt the book could've had better illustrations and the author's duplicate instructions for those using a serger were a little annoying. I mean if you are reading a Sewing for Dummies book, what are the chances you are using a serger?!

I would suggest if you have a certain aspect of sewing you are wanting to learn about, try to find a book that is specific to that subject.

AWESOME
this book is very well written, it teaches you everything that you might need to know for sewing. Is a great buy from young kids to adults.

Excellent Book
This is a great book for your sewing library.It's very easy to understand and
it has wonderful sewing tips.

Good for those just starting out
Great book to help you learn the terminology associated with sewing. Found it helpful when I went fabric/ supply shopping and knew what the stuff I needed was called and what it's purpose was. Lots of good info but a little dated when it came to some of the projects. Good for informational purposes but I'd get an additional book for sewing project ideas or go to a website. ... Read more

Product Description
Secrets of the ready-to-wear industry are revealed, including their fitting and finishing techniques. Lay Flat Hidden Spiral Binding. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Plain and simple, high powered and professional!
This book is well-written, clearly illustrated, and covers the basics through advanced techniques VERY WELL!The pages are in black and white, with great illustrations, about a page or two for each technique. Plus, the type is larger than normal so it's easier to read.
Absolutely a sanity saver for a new sewer or for someone wanting to advance or refresh their sewing skills.

Great reference book for those difficult to sew techniques.
A friend let me borrow this book and I LOVED it and am planning to buy a copy for my own use as a reference guide for many difficult to do techinques. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (13)

Very nice view of Zakka crafting
I have sewn before and done a few basic things such as costumes, pillows, and things that aren't necessarily that difficult. I'd stopped sewing out of fear that I wouldn't be able to comprehend some of the more in-depth patterns.
I've fallen in love with the zakka movement, but wasn't entirely sure what it was about, or what was meant by "deep subtext" that is constantly referred to in the definition. This book helped explain common thematic elements and why they're used so often, going a long way to help me understand what zakka "is", and what it is not.
In addition, the instructions were VERY easy, and aside from the pain that would come from enlarging some of the patterns 200%+, it is VERY easy to understand. I enjoy the button rating system within it that tells you you're fine if you're a beginner (one button) up to a project you'll probably want to have a drink with while you're working on it. (3 buttons).
The projects are all very cute, easily explained, and best of all it's very easy to see how they might be adapted to be bigger, smaller, larger, or differently shaped.
If you're looking for a nice book to get in to the whole zakka thing, it's definitely a good one. It explains in detail what supplies you'll need to complete it, and has a picture for every step of the way. If the only thing you've had access to until now are the Japanese craft books, it'll also give you a little insight in to the diagrams within them as well, since sometimes an explanation is nice to go along with the detailed picture.
I'd recommend buying this book to friends who want to start sewing or who love Japanese trends and cute, kitschy things without hesitation.

Good, but borrow from Library
This book is fun and pretty accessible. I agree with other reviewers that the enlarging is a bit of a pain but its doable. I am now borrowing books from Lib prior to committing byng them and this is one of those books that is perfect for that. I was attracted to the cover and possible contents but upon having it, really only 2 things have great interest for me and others are patterns easily found on many sewing blogs.

If you find yourself wanting to make many crafts from this then buy it (after your library time is up) . Directions are actually pretty clear in most projects - if you have a bit (I mean tiny) bit of experience with sewing you should be fine (otherwise go see your local fabric store they can always help out.)

A lovely Japenese sewing book for inspiration
The design layout and the photography were the first thing that drew me to this book. I often love Japanese sewing patterns, but they are difficult to find in English. This book has wonderful, clear directions. I love the little snippets on the history of Zakka, Japanese folklore and little household tidbits. The button rating system for project difficulty makes it easy to chose projects in your comfort and skill range. It is easy to feel inspired to make these cute patterns or design your own based on this book. I found some of the projects to lovely twists on the usual sewing project like the Squirrel Tea Cozy, the House Mug for coffee mug and spoon and the Sashiko Placemats are quite elegant. Some of the projects, perhaps because they are beyond my comfort zone for sewing, seem like way too much work and I'd rather buy something on Etsy than go through the trouble, like the House Camera Case and the Bunny Wallet. All in all it a lovely and unique collection and an asset to my craft book collection, though I'm not sure how much I'll use it.

Simply Wonderful!
I love this book and the patterns are very simple. The tea cozy is amazingly beautiful.

zakka sewing
If you have a lot of linen, and you do not plan on making clothes with it-- this is a nice bookto have..I have made four linen baskets and a bunny pencil case. People smile when they see them.The instructions are clear.Now back to sewing! The bird pillow is next! ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (16)

I thought this book was great!
I'm a beginner and after purchasing Reader's Digest 'Complete Guide to Sewing' and Simplicity's 'Simply the Best Sewing Book', I found I needed another book for a reason I can't recall now.I did find the answer in "Couture: The Art of Fine Sewing'.Even though I can't remember the reason for for my purchase, I do remember that it helped immensely so I can definitely recommend this book.It would be a great addition to your reference library.And if you are a novice like me, may I also suggest Claire Shaeffer's 'Fabric Sewing Guide'.If you are unsure of how to sew that fabulous new fabric you just bought, this book is for you.All in all, Amazon does an excellent job of furnishing me with everything I need in the way of sewing books!!

Great resource!
I had bought this for my daughter and was so intrigued I bought a copy for myself. An excellent resource for my library.

compare to judge
I am a fan of this book because I found clear directions on sewing welt pockets. If you compare the directions in this book to the ones included in the book sold by a popular sewing author with an internet sewing show, you will see why I'm a fan. In no way could I have successfully completed a welt pocket using the sewing book I received from signing up for the t.v. sewing show. On the other hand, Ms. Carr's directions are very well organized and complete.

A Couture review
They say that good fashion never dates and this is true with the advice and instruction provided in Couture: The Art of Fine Sewing. Having said this perhaps some of the old techniques are no longer required such as 'london shrinking' - but interesting none the less.

Some great tips on sewing for style such as the construction of the Chanel Rose.

It is a must as a reference book for good sewing.


Dianne Passalick

Ugly production; good information
The book's design and many of the featured garments are pretty ugly, but the basic information seems good, and there aren't that many books out there on couture techniques.Claire Schaeffer's book, for example, is not a book for beginners, it's more of an outline for people who are already very experienced sewists.

It is ironic that a book that celebrates what are supposedly the most exquisitely made garments on earth provides so many fussy, hideous examples. ... Read more