No matter your size or shape, Kenneth D. King will teach you how to make perfect-fitting garments every time. In this comprehensive resource, Kenneth shows the home sewer how to understand her shape and fitting options, as well as how to identify bad fit by reading the wrinkles in the garment. From there, he explains his Smart Fitting methods--net gain (add fabric), net loss (remove fabric), or no net gain or loss (move fabric around)--to make the necessary corrections to the pattern. Along the way, Kenneth draws on his 30+ years of patternmaking and couturier experience to: help the sewer understand proportion, wearing ease, and design ease learn how to measure correctly learn about fitting and alteration methods learn how to make a muslin--the gold standard of test garments; and learn how to alter patterns for 35 upper body part issues the home sewer will also be privy to garment construction tips picked up during Kenneth's years of couture sewing--things that make complex details a breeze In Kenneth D. King's Fitting Essentials, Kenneth takes an otherwise confusing process and makes it logical and straightforward.

Just what you've been waiting for - coloured kraft-tex! Wait until you get your hands on this vibrant 'radiant orchid' paper that looks, feels and wears like leather, but sews, cuts and washes just like fabric. Kraft-tex (R) is supple, yet strong enough to use for projects that get tough wear. Use it to bring an exciting new texture to your craft-sewing projects, mixed media arts and bookmaking. Now in brand-new, on-trend colours (no need to dye it yourself!), these colourful rolls of kraft-tex (R) may only be available for a limited time, so snap them up while the colours are in season.

Sewing is an extremely rewarding hobby. With so many different fabrics, embellishments and trimmings now available on the high street and online, it is easier than ever to create unique clothes and home furnishings. Now available in paperback, this best-selling title is THE essential guide to sewing. Each chapter is devoted to one key area of sewing and provides clear and concise in-depth instructions along with step-by-step instructions for basic principles and more advanced sewing techniques. Learn about materials and equipment, and choosing the right machine to work for you in chapter one, then move onto fabrics and patterns in the following chapter. Once you're comfortable with the basic stitches, seams and techniques, learn how to make clothing, accessories and soft furnishings. With this book by your side, you will soon be able to make anything from a commercial pattern, and will also know how to alter patterns to suit your style. With a section on care and repair, you will find out how to look after and fix homemade and store-bought items. And if it can't be fixed, learn how fabric and trimmings can be reused or upcycled into something else. This comprehensive guide offers a glossary of sewing terms, clear instructions and hundreds of illustrations and diagrams showing each stage of the sewing process. It'll be the one resource that you will turn to time and time again.

This beautiful, instructive book from The Great British Sewing Bee's Jenniffer Taylor shows you how to make and adapt your own clothes without the need for shop-bought patterns. Using Jenniffer's fun and imaginative ideas, this book will teach you how to get started transforming unloved items of clothing into new and exciting outfits; how to customise clothes with doilies, tassels, tie-dyeing and block printing; and finally how to measure yourself, create patterns and make clothes from scratch, including dresses, skirts, tops, trousers and a coat. The book is packed with all the tricks of the trade that Jenniffer has learned along her sewing journey, and it will get you started on your own #sewingrevolution!

Fancy a wardrobe full of luxurious leather accessories without the painful price tag? This collection of 20 luxe leather projects is perfect if you're looking for original, high quality projects made from leather, all of which can be made on a domestic sewing machine or with hand stitching. Starting with the simpler projects in this book you'll be able to learn and practice your leather work skills as you go. Sew Luxe Leather will help you gradually build up your skills and confidence: Choose from small projects to get started such as a keyring, card case, small purse and super-useful earphone holder, right up to the ultimate leather laptop case and a really chic foldover clutch for instant style credentials. Learn all the skills you'll need to make these projects and be surprised at how little equipment is necessary to create these stunning leather makes. Impress friends and family with your hand crafted leather accessories-- You'll never be short of ideas for what to make as the perfect gift for everyone in your life!

Just what you've been waiting for - coloured kraft-tex! Wait until you get your hands on this vibrant 'Tangerine Tango' paper that looks, feels and wears like leather, but sews, cuts and washes just like fabric. Kraft-tex (R) is supple, yet strong enough to use for projects that get tough wear. Use it to bring an exciting new texture to your craft-sewing projects, mixed media arts and bookmaking. Now in brand-new, on-trend colours (no need to dye it yourself!), these colourful rolls of kraft-tex (R) may only be available for a limited time, so snap them up while the colours are in season.

Make six classic garments and create a stylish multi-layered wardrobe from scratch. Full-size patterns are provided for a neat vest with a boxer back detail, an elegant bias-cut long-sleeved dress, a simple long gathered skirt with a drawstring waist, a batwing wrap top, an oversized drop-shoulder jacket and a pair of classic wide leg trousers. By choosing seasonal cloth, the versatility of these projects can be enjoyed from the first hint of spring to the end of winter. The aim of this book is to move beyond simplicity and dare the maker to develop new skills. With variations for tops, dresses, shorts and a coat, our precise step-by-step instructions and inspiring photography will enable you sew with confidence. The reward will be an all season, multi-layer wardrobe by your own hand. We hope you, the reader, are ready for this set of challenges and willing to pace yourselves through the more complicated garments. Full-size patterns for all six garments are included, ready to be traced off and put to good use immediately. Make fashion work.

Upcycling is die term wat gebruik word vir kreatiewe herwinning van afvalmateriaal of onbruikbare, ongewensde items, om nuwe produkte te skep wat waarde het. In hierdie boek gebruik die skrywer afvalitems om splinternuwe, byderwetse juweliersware, handsakke, houers en geskenkitems te maak.

Fuse two of your passions - knitting and felting - to create gorgeous, woolly animals filled with character. In this incredibly inspirational and unique book, Catherine shows you how to knit, wet felt and needle felt 20 cute creatures that you, your friends and family will love! Whether you love lions, rave over rabbits, are awed by alpacas, crazy for koalas or head over heels for Highland cows, there is a stunning variety of animals for you to choose from and make. Only basic knitting skills are required (cast on, cast/bind off, knit, purl, increase and decrease) and the wet felting process is simpler than you think! Then, once you've stuffed and sewn them up, you'll see how easy it is to needle felt details onto your velvety friend to create a fun and realistic creature! Whatever your skill level, a friendly and comprehensive techniques chapter is included on knitting, wet felting and needle felting, all accompanied by clear, fully-illustrated step-by-step instructions - so you can dive into your designs with confidence and creativity. The tools and materials needed are basic, easy to source and cost very little, making these fuzzy critters perfect for beginner crafters, or more experienced knitters and felters looking for fresh ideas and effortless projects.

Packed with key skills and friendly know-how, this essential guide is ideal for anyone taking their first steps into dressmaking. The latest title in Debbie Shore's Sewing Room Secrets series, this essential guide is packed with key skills and friendly know-how and is ideal for anyone taking their first steps into dressmaking. It covers the important basics such as: how to read and adjust a pattern; how to choose, mark and cut fabric; how to add zips, pockets and buttons; how to adapt old, misshapen or over-sized garments, and how to do some basic mending - all shown step-by-step. This book is a toolkit designed to equip you with all the dressmaking skills you need; it contains ten inventive projects for you to try your hand at using your own pre-loved clothes, and gives you all the knowledge you need to make your own clothes from scratch using the pattern of your choice.

Sew a complete wardrobe without pricey paper patterns! Learn the secrets to pattern-free garment making as you measure, cut, and sew for a fabulous fit every time. Create 24 easy-to-wear garments for women and girls, personalized with a variety of pockets, belts, and hem bands. From a maxi skirt to a shirred blouse and even a raincoat, these projects are ideal for beginning sewists and women of all sizes. Express your passion for fashion-this gorgeous collection of all-seasons styles costs less than the price of a few tissue-paper patterns!

"Susa's approach to needle felting will give beginners the know-how to get started, but experienced felters will also appreciate her whimsical designs." --Library Journal Cute Needle Felted Animal Friends shows you how to create lifelike felted figures that remind you of the pets you love--using a little wool roving, a felting needle, and a few basic tools and techniques. Even more than this, it shows you how to capture their adorable expressions when they're playing hard, napping, or just happy to see you. A sweetly cocked head, perky ears, and a tail that makes you think it's actually wagging--the charm of these miniature figures is all in the details! Easy step-by-step instructions and photos show you how to make the basic shapes and components, then how to add details like long or curly hair, spines, and stripes, as well as little faces that are utterly irresistible. With a bit of practice, you'll be able to portray the unique poses and expressions of beloved pets from your own life. And just like your pets, this needle felting book is so friendly that even novice felters will have no trouble making these miniature animal figures, including: A perky Yorkshire Terrier An elegant Russian Blue Cat A playful Tabby A sleepy Mottled Cat A Holland Lop Rabbit A curly Toy Poodle A fluffy Pomeranian A dapper French Bulldog Matching mom-and-pup Chihuahuas A sweet Pygmy Hedgehog And many more!

Line is an essential component of all textile and surface art. When used effectively, line and mark-making convey texture, tone, form, movement, and mood. With "Drawn to Stitch" by your side, learn creative uses of line in embroidery and textile art.
Artist and teacher Gwen Hedley shares a series of exercises designed to explore line's potential as well as develop your creativity. "Drawn to Stitch" also covers line and mark-making tools, materials, and processes, including printing and mixed-media techniques. Gwen explores stitch, explaining how to interpret different line qualities from crisp and sharp to soft and diffused and from raised and overlaid to recessed and inlaid.
Full of inspiring ideas, "Drawn to Stitch" is illustrated with stunning examples of stitched-textile work from leading artists.

Chic and timeless, macrame has once again established itself as a popular home decor trend. Decorative Macrame walks you through the process of creating your own unique pieces, perfect for your space. Clear step-by-step photographs show you how to create the four basic knots and apply simple macrame techniques, while detailed diagrams help you with things like measurements--making the creation process less daunting. Diagrams, drawings and instructions show you how to create 20 projects that are simple enough for beginners and satisfying enough for practiced knotters. Ranging from small accessories to hanging statement pieces, everyone will be able to find something that catches their eye. The projects in this book include: Soft wall hangings--perfect for warming up any space An elegant room divider A boho chic lampshade An adorable bunting that can hang year-round Multiple hanging plant holders Curtain ties that add a touch of interest to your windows A keychain so you can carry your crafts with you And much more! Beautiful lifestyle images of the finished projects (surrounded by muted tones, natural materials and an abundance of plants) are sure to inspire your own space.

Elevate your costume-making skills to the next level! Julianna Franchini, aka Marquise Cubey, veteran cosplayer and professional costume designer shares little-known painting, dyeing, and weathering techniques you can apply to fabric to get exactly the look you want, every time!

The book contains chapters on techniques, materials, tools and accessories. There is a chapter on fairies, angels, and people, and the rest of the book is organised by season; it brims with all kinds of treasures, such as pumpkins, gnomes, strawberries, baubles, birds, bees, snails, flowers, the Nativity, mice, and mermaids. All the projects in the book are doable for a beginner. Some aimed at little fingers (no needles involved) and beginners, and some are aimed at those with more experience. Steffi's advice is to have a go!

This is a crash-course on printing with techniques, materials and surfaces that can all be done in the home. Every project features Yellow Owl Workshop's sought-after motifs and the author's art-school style illustrations. This title is full of original ideas for things to make and use, such as jar labels, pillows and a stationary set. "Print Workshop" grabs readers hand and leads them through a crash-course on printing with techniques, materials and surfaces they never dreamed they could take on at home. It can be as simple as carving a potato or as complex as a chemical bath, but no matter the skill level, these printing techniques never require expensive equipment or lots of space. Everything in this book is easily do-able at home; and every project features Yellow Owl Workshop's sought-after motifs and Christine's art-school style illustrations. The book is full of original ideas for things to make and use. There's jar labels for your canning and pickling needs. There's pillows inspired by YOW's famous city and bicycle stamps. There's everything from a stationary set (complete with wax seal) to a dartboard, from a deck of cards to a fine art print.

A tome of design, inspiration, and how-to, this substantial book is the one-stop resource for anyone looking to learn the fine art of furniture upholstery. With all of the techniques taught through step-by-step illustrated instructions of five projects, including a Louis chair, a slipper chair, a wingback chair, a full-sized sofa, and an ottoman, students will acquire all the skills they need to go out and create one-of-a-kind pieces designed to suit their taste. There are also chapters on interior design principles and how to sew throw pillows. With Amanda Brown's living room as the backdrop, readers can see first-hand how her aesthetic and upholstery design transform a bare room into something wonderful.

Beginning sergers will benefit from this introductory guide to the serger machine and basic serging techniques. Information on the function of a serger and instructions on machine maintenance are provided along with step-by-step guidelines on sewing straight lines and curves, turning corners, and creating professional-looking seams. Additional details on stitch types, flatlocking, fabric tension, decorative techniques, and making fast fashion adornments such as collars, gathers, and hems are also included, and exciting projects like the serged napkin, swimsuit, and sweater will help augment the skills of the novice serger.

An A-line can be professional or casual, classic or whimsical, simple or elaborate, colourful or muted - and that's with one pattern! Use this great-fitting pattern and a few simple skills to create your dream skirt from UK size 8 - 22 (US 0 -20).

Discover the secrets to sewing a stylish wardrobe with staying power! This guide walks you through thirty timeless garments to create, including a must-have button-up shirt, a flattering A-line dress, and a modern classic pencil skirt (pattern included). With a conversational narrative, the authors have created an engaging, informative guide to sewing by tracing the garments' origins, offering styling and sewing tips, and sharing a modelled photo gallery and charming fashion illustrations by Beth Briggs.

"Kawaii" is the Japanese word for "adorable," "cute," or "lovable" and has grown from a national trend to a worldwide phenomenon. Kawaii Craft Life takes advantage of this growing and popular movement, with a focus on embroidery, cross-stitch, and feltcraft. Featuring approximately 35 kawaii-style projects from a fudge pop plushie and coffee cup cozie to a succulent smartphone case cover and a narwhal brooch, and more than 35 beautiful full-color photos and step-by-step illustrations that showcase the adorable projects. Also included are templates for projects and instructions for creating gifts with a kawaii touch: apple pie apronsushi magnetsmilk and cookie earringssweet dreams slumber maskanimal wine charmsavocado gift tagwoodland critters garlandand more!