Me and My Sewing Machine: A Beginner's Guide

Accessible, good-looking and jargon-free, this book contains everything you need to know to sew well using your sewing machine and nothing more. There are no scary couture-type techniques that real sewers never use, no painstaking procedures that don't actually make your sewing easier, or help it look better, and no complicated methods of doing anything. Instead you will find easy-to-understand, practical and decorative techniques that make sewing simple, even if you have never used a machine before. There are lots of clever tips plus shortcuts that can make things faster and easier to do, with clear advice on when you can use these speedy methods and when it really is better to do something the traditional way. Everything is illustrated with clear step-by-step photography and finished samples, with variation samples where appropriate. As well as techniques, there are some easy projects you can make on your sewing machine and although they are simple, they don't skimp on style.

This classy and clever book has everything a beginner needs, plus it?s an essential reference guide for even the most experienced sewers. Learn how to make different kinds of seams, hems, fasteners and bindings, as well as when and why to use each kind. Find your perfect signature style with fanciful finishing techniques like ruffles, pleats, ribbons and applique.

Library Journal

Craft publisher C&T launches its youthful, funky new imprint with this volume, an accessible introduction to sewing with a sewing machine. Haxell (Stitched Toys) takes readers through all the basics of sewing, from selecting the right machine to identifying its parts to basic stitching. It's surprising that the projects don't take a more teen or YA-friendly approach to go with the rest of the book's presentation, which is very accessible to younger crafters. Though Creative Publishing's Singer-branded sewing books are still tops in this category, this is a nice quickie introduction for novices.

Kate Haxell learned sewing from her grandmother at a young age, creating eccentric outfits for her compliant dolls. After obtaining her art degree, she went to work for Country Living, then moved into book publishing and editing. Kate's previous books include Decorative Knitting, The Seed Bead Book and First Knits. She lives in London.