Linen and Cotton: Classic Sewing Techniques for Great Results (Focus on Fabric)

Rating:
Summary: Review of a mere amateur
Review: I have enjoyed sewing, but have not had time to do any of it for the last few years. Over the last 3, however, I have really gotten "in to" linens, crochet, and embroidery. I don't know what hit me! I have had a college class in sewing, good pointers from a few and have occasionally browsed a couple of books, so take this review with that knowledge. I have worked my way through half of the book, now, and have learned several pointers and have piqued my interest and desire to sew again even more. I think the book is very enjoyable, and the only reason that I didn't rate it higher, is that, I'm not sure if my judgement would be critical. There should be some rating scheme for the reviewers, also! I don't know how this compares to others, but I am actually _reading_ it -- through and through, not just skipping. Enjoy!

Rating:
Summary: I love this book!!
Review: I love sewing and I bought this book as cotton and linen are among my favorite fabrics to use when I am making shirts, blouses skirt and dresses.

The first part of this book includes information (without getting too technical) on these two types of fabric with emphasis on their numerous qualities, types, processing, weaves, dyeing techniques and finishes. Also included are a number of sample garments that cover a range of styles fabrication and techniques to show how versatile garments one can make (even a wedding gown!!) out of linen or cotton. The author then proceeds to describe various techniques one can apply to achieve great results with the use of very clear diagrams and photographs. This part of the book I found to be the most fascinating.

There is a list of decorative seam treatments and seam finishes that look great on these two fabrics. The author includes techniques on different waistline treatments one can apply in skirts or pants. Better yet, everyone who works with these fabrics should check out the information on the use and application of interfacings, underlinings, facings and linings. Instructions on the use of sleeve heads, staystitching and inner stay tape are also included as well as on the application of decorative details such as pleats, gathers, godets and angled seams, topstitching, decorative stitching, application of lace, binding and even pockets. Finally she concentrates on a number of finishing details regarding closures (zippers, buttons, hooks and eyes, plackets etc.) hems and others.

This book is not intended to provide information on how to make shirts, skirts etc. as it is a fiber-oriented and not a garment-oriented book. The author has managed to write a book with so much information and interesting techniques to apply when working with these fabrics (to give structure, embellish, or add the right finishing detail) that I find it to be most valuable to me. Do try these at home!!