Girls Guide to Sewing - Hardcover

The current recession has revived a 'make do and mend' philosophy, and a raft of popular television programmes have helped make sewing the must-have skill for every young women. As a result, sewing machine sales have soared and trends for up-cycling fashion continue apace. What better way to personalise clothing and home accessories, or make your ensemble fit perfectly, than by learning to do it yourself? Crammed with expert yet simple advice and ideas, this handbook provides the novice with the basic skills to hand- and machine-stitch in order to repair, revamp and recreate. From hemming, trimming, patching, darning and applique to customizing and reinventing, every skill the beginner will need is described in detail. In addition, there are 35 simple projects to make, including a laptop case, a pair of shorts, a simple skirt, a key fob, belt and pin cushion. Each project is simply designed, and uses a range of sewing skills that are easy to master. There are hints and tips throughout to give the maker confidence in their skills. This new approach to sewing will appeal to teens who want to learn to make their own clothes, as well as embellish and alter existing clothes and accessories.

Cheryl Owen began her career as a fashion designer and pattern cutter before moving on to writing instructions and drawing scale patterns for a well-known sewing pattern manufacturer. A best-selling author, she has written more than 40 craft books and is a project designer and maker for home style and craft magazines.