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.

Nobody does a handmade Christmas like Mandy Shaw! Learn how to decorate your home with unique and personal touches with this gorgeous collection of sewing patterns from the Queen of Christmas Craft. Featuring Mandy's signature Redwork designs and cute folk-inspired characters, this charming book brings Mandy's best-loved Christmas projects together into one volume. With inspiring lifestyle photography, step-by-step instructions and full-size templates, you'll learn to sew wreaths, garlands, pennants, hanging decorations and more, and bring some of Mandy's sparkle to your own magical Christmas.

Perfect colors every time! It's as easy as 1, 2, 3...1. Start with your desired color card 2. Choose one of the color scheme options 3. Find the corresponding companion color cards to create the perfect color combination. New! Includes CMYK and RGB formulas, plus Hex numbers for website design. Improved! Larger color swatches and expanded guidelines for use

Come embroider alongside admired fabric designer Anna Maria Horner Admired for her luminous palette and innovative patterns, Anna Maria's brand means color and inspiration in the form of fabric, sewing patterns, needlework patterns, books, and friendly instruction. Now, her legion of fans will thrill to the publication of a brand-new addition to her growing library. Anna Maria's Needleworks Notebook gives readers 24 original motifs in a variety of embroidery types, from gridwork to crewel and fine detailed handwork. Readers will long to make projects to embellish their homes and wardrobes. Anna Maria presents each motif in a warm personal notebook-style with inspiration adn advice to turn each motif into a treasured finished piece Offers practical instruction in gridwork, traditional embroidery and crewel, and precise instruction to complete fine detail work Vivid full-color photographs invite you into the creative process Whether you're a beginner or a veteran, the 24 needlework motifs in this beautiful book will transform your home and wardrobe into a collection of unique treasures.

Ann Small's imaginative use of cutting and manipulating techniques, and her layering and colouring tricks, makes this your 'go-to' guide for bringing form and texture to your fabric artwork. This book is a rich resource and reference for textile artists seeking new ideas and who want to experiment with reverse applique and related techniques such as layering, trapunto, stacks, puffs and fabric manipulation. Packed with techniques suitable for quilting and other textile art Three wearable step-by-step projects Clear, close-up images make layering enjoyable and accessible.

Fantastic fashion that won't cost you the earth. What is a 'fashion footprint'? What's the problem with fast fashion? And is there any alternative to it? This inspirational guide is your sustainable sourcebook full of activities and practical tips on how you can cut ties with unethical fashion practices and form new fashion habits that work for you - all without compromising your signature style! Author Laura Strutt will help readers identify the approach that will work best for them - are you a seasonal clothes swapper or would you rather get crafty? Covering topics such as motivational mindset changes, trusted brands to try, buying and selling secondhand clothes, inspiration for upcycles, mending techniques and questions to ask companies before you shop, this is the ultimate book for the closet-curious who want to create a wardrobe that doesn't cost the Earth.

Become a skillful sewer, even if you've never sewn a stitch before! Choose from over 20 projects for you and your home and quickly go from beginner to expert. Clear photography guides you through all the basic techniques before delving into the beautiful projects. Become a skillful sewer, even if you've never sewn a stitch before! Choose from over 20 projects for you and your home and quickly go from beginner to expert. Clear photography guides you through all the basic techniques before delving into the beautiful projects. Complete novice? Start with the simple shopper or pretty lace bow top. Ready for something a bit more challenging? Try your hand at curtains or even a tunic dress. Watch your confidence soar as you work your way through this brilliant book. Other titles in this series include: First Beading (9781843406136), First Crochet (9781843406129), First Card Making (9781843406143) and First Knits (9781843406112). Also available in 2014: First Cake Decorating Word count: 20,000

Create over 30 cute felted animals with this easy-to-use needle felting book. There's something for everyone in this needle felting book, and all the projects are easy to make. Great for all levels, beginners can learn the basics and experienced felters can pick up tips on how to work with new colors and details. Thorough instructions for each project show you how to take wool roving to make the basic shapes and blend them seamlessly. A special step-by-step section shows you how easy even the most complex piece can be, and how any small figure can be made into an accessory you can carry or wear. These cute miniature animals range from the wonderfully realistic to enchantingly adorable. Included in this book are: An Elephant all decked out for festival day A Queen's Guard and a Dutch Girl in traditional dress A Mama Kangaroo with her Joey An enchanting Teddy Bear Cute accessories featuring foods and flags from different lands Felt scenery to set the stage for your felt creations And a lot more! The projects range from about 2-4 inches high and instructions are included for turning a few of your felt creations into fun dangly accessories. A full lesson takes you through one of the projects from beginning to end, covering all the basics to ensure that you have all the skills you need to make any fuzzy friend you want. Put your felting needle to work!

Create cool carryalls--no pattern required! Hit the town, office or schoolyard with these one-of-a-kind satchels! In this handy beginner's guide, the experts behind Sew4Home.com show you how to create ten hip projects, from clutches and shoulder bags to a slick yoga mat sling and a vintage kids' book bag. No paper patterns required! Throughout Sew4Home Bags and Totes, you'll find step-by-step instructions and sewing tutorials. Learn to make ruffles, fussy cut fabric, add an inset zipper, and other design details to give your bag a professional finish. Thanks to authors Liz Johnson and Alicia Thommas, learning to sew trend-setting bags and totes has never been easier or more fashionable!