This book takes the mystery out of the sewing machine, holding first-time stitchers by the hand and showing the easiest ways to get the most from their machine. This book takes the mystery out of the sewing machine, holding first-time stitchers by the hand and showing the easiest ways to get the most from their machine. In the climate of “make do and mend,” sales of sewing machines have soared, but many are only accompanied by a difficult-to-understand technical manual. Here, Jane Bolsover provides a comprehensive guide for beginners. Starting with an essential overview of the sewing machine, learn how to thread it and wind bobbins, why tension is important, and which needles to choose. There's information on the basic sewing kit you will need, plus advice on which fabrics to choose and how to cut out. The chapters then build into a complete sewing course, and at the end of each chapter is a simple project to consolidate the skills you have just mastered. The projects include items for the home, including a cushion cover and a lampshade, stylish accessories, such as bags and scarves, plus great clothing basics, such as an A-line skirt and a simple shift dress. Also included at the back of the book are two full-size pull-out paper pattern sections.

Originally published: Millers Point, NSW: Murdoch Books, 2011.

This is the perfect book for anyone who wants to learn how to sew, or just needs a quick refresher course. Friendly and easy-to-follow directions will have you sewing with confidence, making repairs, and creating new garments from scratch. From cutting patterns and sewing seams to binding edges, gathering fabric and installing zippers, each new skill is accompanied by a quick practice exercise to try, allowing you to learn as you sew. Fifteen simple and straightforward projects are provided for sewing fun accessories from plushies and pincushions to placemats, hand towels, hats and more.

Contains thirty-four articles originally featured in "Threads" magazine which explain various sewing techniques.

Art Teacherin' 101 is a book for all elementary art teachers, new and seasoned, to learn all things art teacherin' from classroom management, to taming the kindergarten beast, landing that dream job, taking on a student-teacher, setting up an art room and beyond. It's author, Cassie Stephens, has been an elementary art teacher for over 22 years and shares all that she's learned as an art educator. Art teachers, home school parents and classroom teachers alike will find tried and true ways to make art and creating a magical experience for the young artists in their life.

Twelve original projects encourage even the least experienced needlecrafter to bring out the sewing machine and create attractive, professional-looking items for home and wardrobe. Starting with basics and progressing to more complex patterns, the projects include a drawstring bag, a cushion cover, a ballerina skirt, a cape, a summer sarong, a set of window curtains, a Japanese kimono, and several other items of apparel or household enhancement. The author also instructs on hand stitching, getting the most out of the standard home sewing machine, using commercial clothing patterns, making buttonholes, hemming, attaching zippers, and much more. Instructions are supplemented with more than 350 color illustrations.

Sew chic, dark-toned clothes with this stylish sewing book and add a touch of originality to your wardrobe. Basic Black is the English edition of a classic Japanese sewing book which provides sew-it-yourself Western-sized patterns for 26 basic garments, along with detailed, easy-to-follow diagrams and instructions. Author Sato Watanabe has published many books that are favorites among Japanese sewing fans. In this book she shows you how to make truly professional-quality pieces easily and inexpensively at home. DIY Sewing designs include: Lace Shirred Blouse Tiered Sleeveless Dress Zip-up Vest with High Neck Frilled Shirt in Charcoal Flannel Short Coat And many more… All of the styles and fashion are easily customized to create your own personal style, and there is truly something for everyone and every occasion in this book—from a smart two-texture combo dress to a relaxed, bohemian tunic—and everything in-between. All the styles are thoroughly modern and practical, ranging from softly feminine or straight-line simple to smartly-tailored or loosely-deconstructed. Simple lines make these garments perfect for women of all ages and all sizes. This book includes a complete western-sized sewing pattern for each design that is easily adjusted to fit your body form. The understated, graceful designs in this book are ones that you'll come back to again and again.