Rating: 
Summary: Great book for a beginner!
Review: My mom recently bought me a sewing machine as a gift, and I had no clue how to use it. I leafed through a lot of sewing books trying to decide which one to buy; most of them were much thicker than this one, and filled with advanced techniques that I wasn't ready for. This book actually takes you through the process of threading the machine, explains basics about fabric, tools, taking body measurements and gives you a list of essentials to buy for your sewing kit. The best part for me was that it's goal-oriented. SFSE comes with 3 patterns for a pillow cover, tote bag and skirt. Each project has step-by-step directions and great diagrams. The projects get more difficult as you go, so you learn more and more with each project. If you want a sewing book that will actually teach you how to sew (vs. a reference manual) this is the one. This would also make a great gift--the book design is really cute!
Rating:
Summary: Beginning sewers should start here!
Review: The only mistake that I made in purchasing this book was that I bought it after I had spent money on other, more complicated, books marketed towards the beginning sewer. If you have literally NO prior experience, cannot decipher a "selvage" from a "crosswise grain", buy this book. It is elementary in its explanation and directions, without being condescending. It is full of tips and suggestions that I found no where else, and as an added bonus-it includes 3 ready to use patterns! Trust me and buy this book FIRST! Sewing can be frustrating to the novice, and intimidating, with all of the jargon and precision that is involved. You will be very satisfied with your purchase!
Rating:
Summary: You will sew both fast and easy. You'll be amazed.
Review: This book is absolutely wonderful. I never thought I'd learn to sew and was a bit worried when I got a machine and figured I'd try to learn with a book or on my own. With this book I have learned how to make the pillow, bag and skirt she shows in the book. I am addicted to making the skirt and now even have the confidence to try some other things and use other books. I wish I had found this book sooner and wish I could take one of her classes. If you are just learning to sew, but this book first. You will really surprise yourself.
Rating:
Summary: An EXCELLENT book for a beginner!!!
Review: This book is an excellent starter book for those who don't know ANYTHING about sewing and feel somewhat intimadated by the sewing process. The author is able to calm a person's fears and make sewing seem like it's so easy. One of the BETTER instruction books I've read.
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