Sew it Up

Sew it Up
By Ruth Singer
Published by Kyle Cathie
ISBN: 9781856268103
Price: £19.99
Reviewed by Kerry Miller

Sew It Up is a modern manual of practical and decorative sewing techniques. It is crammed full of old and new sewing techniques with easy to follow diagrams and instructions throughout. As an experienced ‘sewer’ I was pleasantly surprised that it includes new techniques as well as informative ‘revision lessons’ on long forgotten basic skills. With the emergence of a new generation of people keen to make things at home this book arms the reader with the information needed to start producing great results from the word go. It is written by accomplished textile designer-maker and tutor, Ruth Singer, and she has included 20 contemporary projects and 20 professional master classes. Team these with the treasure trove of over 200 techniques and guides and you have a veritable ‘sewers’ bible!
 
The book dispels the myth that sewing should only be attempted by middle-aged women (which includes myself!) and should appeal to anyone capable of threading a needle, male or female! There is much emphasis on ‘eco practice’ with advice on using organic and eco fabrics as well as working with recycled and vintage fabrics – again, a growing trend with the current financial difficulties that many are experiencing. Ruth also goes into great detail over the perfect fabrics and necessary equipment for your sewing projects, enabling newcomers to browse their local haberdashery shops with confidence. Quite simply, this book will take you right through from basic stitching to fabulous trapunto quilting and will soon have you making endless accessories, clothes and soft furnishings. One other point, not usually seen in book reviews, is the fact that it smells nice when you leaf through the substantial pages! Order your copy now and amaze your family and friends with your new found talents!