Need to learn how to shorten a hemline? Eager to make some cushion covers or a simple tunic dress? Sew Step by Step will come to your rescue. A compact version of DK's The Sewing Book, here all the essential basic techniques and tools are clearly explained so you can start sewing with confidence. With no projects, just all the information and guidance you need to get going, this book is sure to whet your creative appetite and leave you equipped and inspired to make beautiful, personal pieces. Packed with easy-to-follow techniques, from sewing on a button to personalizing a garment, Sew Step by Step brings these traditional, practical, and artistic crafts up to date with advice on contemporary styles and new materials, introducing these immensely satisfying skills to a whole new generation. So what are you waiting for? With the help of this book you can learn a skill that expresses your individuality and flair, will save you money, and will create objects you can cherish for years.

A how-to manual for sewing beginners covers how to choose and use equipment and materials, laying out fabrics and patterns, and tricks and advice for cutting and sewing.

Packed with computer-aided designs, information on new types of fabrics, and specially commissioned photos, this comprehensive guide maintains its original appeal, while enticing a whole new generation of readers.

Learn how to make your own clothes in simple steps. A compact and comprehensive dressmaking resource for anyone who wants to learn how to make clothes at home. Learn how to make a dress, trousers, tops, and jackets--18 garments in all--by following clear and simple step-by-step sequences. Everything you need to learn to sew a wardrobe of clothes is included, from information on tools and materials, to key sewing techniques, to garment projects complete with sewing patterns.

A sourcebook for the home sewer contains more than 500 fundamental techniques for altering or repairing garments, using patterns, and creating your own designs

An invaluable resource, Dressmaking will guide you through all the stages of making, altering, and customizing clothes. Starting with the Tools and Materials, you will learn what you need to buy and how to use it. The Fabrics chapter demonstrates the drape and weave of fabrics and explains the best uses of each. The Patterns chapter covers everything from understanding a pattern to altering one. In General Techniques, close-up photography and guiding annotation to explain key techniques step by step. A section on Basic Patterns and Variations then guides you through creating six garments. Patterns and detailed step-by-step instructions are provided for a skirt, dress, shirt, tee, jacket, and pair of trousers. Instructions are also given for possible variations of each garment. Finally, chapters on Alterations and repairs and Customizing offer practical tips for repairing worn items and inspiration for modernizing tired pieces. Packed with essential advice and inspiration, this is the dressmaking bible that no budding seamstress should be without.

An indispensable volume for beginning and advanced sewers alike that guides readers through necessary equipment, techniques, fabrics and more. First published in 1978, Reader’s Digest’s popular Complete Guide to Sewing has become the standard stich-and-seam reference book for both beginner and seasoned sewers. Now, Reader’s Digest has refreshed this tried-and-true volume for the modern era, adapting it to current trends while preserving the comprehensive, practical and inspiring content within. Reader’s Digest Complete Guide to Sewing gives sewers of every experience and comfort level everything they need to know to create the wardrobe of their dreams and beautify their homes with original decorative accents. Clear, simple instructions written by experts in the field tell you what to do and how to do it. Plus, thousands of illustrations and diagrams throughout the book’s 384 pages illustrate each stage of the process. Key elements of the book include: A detailed list of the basic equipment you’ll need before getting started sewing. Tips for choosing the right fabric for your project. A step-by-step photo guide that shows you how to take measurements. Instructions in a variety of essential hand-stitching techniques. 20 timeless projects— more than half of them new to this edition—to practice your skills including shirts, dresses, bags, and more. Plus, the book has received endorsements from a variety of trusted sources: “…and I always recommend the Reader’s Digest Guide to Sewing. It’s very comprehensive and very user-friendly.” —Tim Gunn “…abundant and precise line art, enticing photographs, simple-to-follow instructions and valuable information on tools, supplies, materials and techniques.” —The New York Times “A woman who takes sewing seriously, or who wants to learn to sew, won’t want to be without this book.” —Portland Oregon Journal “Here is everything you always wanted to know about sewing—a veritable encyclopedia of stitching facts.” —The Austin American Statesman