Sitting down in front of your first sewing machine can be an awesome experience. You realize you have an excellent and practical
outlet for your creativity. You also realize you have no clue what to do first, nor how to do it. That's where
Sewing 101: A Beginner's Guide to Sewing comes in. Written to "guide you from your first nervous stitch at your sewing
machine to comfortable familiarity," this book takes you step-by-step through the sewing process.
The book is logically divided into three sections; "Sewing Basics," "Sewing Garments," and "Sewing Home Decor."
"Sewing Basics" is full of all the information a beginner needs to get comfortable with the thought of actually sewing
something. This section helps you become familiar with the mechanical aspect of the sewing machine and its various parts, as well as
the use of the machine. Sewing supplies and fabrics are presented and explained in detail. The most helpful part of
"Sewing Basics" for me was the comprehensive information provided on patterns. You are guided through selecting
patterns, deciphering all that "stuff" on the pattern envelopes, understanding all the markings on the patterns and
laying out your patterns for cutting and marking.
The second section of Sewing 101: A Beginner's Guide to Sewing, "Sewing Garments," is where the
actual hands-on projects begin. "Sewing Garments" walks you through sewing six types of clothing, with variations provided.
You are instructed on pattern selection specific to the project, as well as provided a materials list that you will find very useful
in the fabric store. Then, you are given step-by-step instructions peppered with helpful tips that give you knowledge that's usually
only gained through experience. Please note, the projects are basic garments like T-shirts and wrap skirts (the only garment project
that does not require a pattern), which are probably better suited to a beginner than most trendy items would be.
"Sewing Home Decor," continues the very helpful format of "Sewing Garments." In this section there are 14 projects,
which include a sampling of various home decorating options such as throw pillows, baby items, table linens and window treatments.
These projects are all patternless and they cover a variety of decorating styles. You should have no problem selecting projects from
this section that you will enjoy creating and using in your home.
Sewing 101: A Beginner's Guide to Sewing is an excellent resource for someone new to sewing.
The conversational style and full-color photographs are very encouraging and help ward off the apprehension of a beginner.
The information is thorough without being overwhelming. The binding even notes mention, as the spiral-binding allows the book to
lie flat, a very helpful feature when you are using the book while working. If you are learning to sew and need a good self-teaching
aid, this is the book for you.
