This post follows on from a previous post reviewing two ebooks: How to Sew – Basics and How to Sew – Applique. This review is of two further ebooks: How to Sew – Patchwork and How to Sew – Machine Sewing.
How to Sew: Patchwork
The How to Sew: Patchwork ebook (a handy pdf) contains a basic introduction to patchwork and quilting along with three simple projects over 27 pages. The ebook covers both machine piecing and hand piecing patchwork as well as machine and hand quilting. Lots of helpful hints are included and the layout is clear to read and well illustrated, which help explain each step.
Three projects are included (a simple quilt, perfect pig and rustic rucksack). The quilt and pig projects are suitable for beginners but the rucksack requires a certain level of sewing skill. The rucksack project also requires a number of items you may not necessarily have in your sewing box but a list of UK and US suppliers are included at the end of the ebook. The instructions for each project contain lists of equipment required and are amply illustrated with drawings and photographs. Although the fabrics chosen for the projects are not to my taste it is helpful to have three projects of varying skill to work through which can easily be adapted using your favourite fabrics.
How to Sew: Machine Sewing
How to Sew: Machine Sewing is my favourite ebook. I think of myself as a beginner and enjoy hand sewing small softies and doll quilts. However, I have a lovely vintage sewing machine and more modern machine and would really love to be able to use them to their full potential. This ebook is 26 pages and includes information about sewing machines, how to use them and the different stitches most machines are capable of. Three projects are included: a shabby chic bag, scatter cushion and pocket window blind.
Both ebooks are helpful aids to any crafters collection. The size, although small, is just right for a basic introduction to each subject and I found the electronic format easy to read and space saving (stored on my laptop rather than my overstuffed bookshelves!). Although I felt the patterns and fabrics looked dated in the How to Sew: Patchwork ebook I think it was helpful to have projects in order to practice the techniques.
I’m sure someone will set up a flickr group or similar place where crafters could post pictures of their projects and share useful tips. It would also be useful to suggest books or websites to take each technique further.
All four ebooks are published by David and Charles and are available through RUCraft. A review of How to Sew – Basics and How to Sew – Applique can be found here.
I look forward to trying some of the projects in these guides soon!
