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{Book Reviews} Patchwork Gifts, and Stitch Savvy

June 13, 2013 By A Spoonful of Sugar - 3 Comments

We are reviewing a couple of titles today that will interest sewists and quilters. If you love to sew small projects for gifts, home decor, clothing etc, then you will find plenty of inspiration in these two new titles.

Pretty Patchwork Gifts by Helen Philipps is aptly titled, as it contains over 25 sweet projects made from pretty fabrics. The projects range from quick projects suitable for beginners to more challenging projects for intermediate sewers. Projects include: doll quilts, toy rabbits, pillows, bags, and more.

Helen Philipps has a great eye for colour. All the designs have been constructed in pretty florals, polka dots, and modern prints, which give the book a colourful, fresh look. Many techniques/materials have been used to embellish the projects, including patchwork, appliqué, embroidery, yoyo’s, buttons and more. Throughout the book there are helpful tips and creative ideas on how to make the projects your own.

Pretty Patchwork Gifts includes plenty of inspiring photos, step-by-step diagrams and templates, to guide you through the process. Most templates need to be enlarged.

If you enjoy making sweet gifts out of fabric, Pretty Patchwork Gifts is bound to provide plenty of inspiration. Pretty Patchwork Gifts is available from Booktopia.

Book Details:
Publisher:    David and Charles
Format:       Paperback, 128 Pages
ISBN:         9781446302132
RRP:          $29.99

Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes is a great resource for sewers who want to build their skills. It includes 25 Skill building projects to take your sewing technique to the next level. The book is divided into 5 tracks – home décor, handbags, kids’ items, quilting and clothing. Each track include 5 projects that start simple and then build on your skills. Cross referenced techniques allow you to move from project to project to explore and use different skills.

Stitch Savvy includes a very helpful Sewing Basics section when reviews supplies, techniques, terminology, and includes some mini warm up projects to get you started. Then it is time to start the major projects, which are graded in difficulty so you can find projects suitable to your skill level and then build on those skills. Some of the techniques covered include: piping, covering buttons, chain stitching, using fusible batting, stitching darts and more.

The book is beautifully photographed and styled, with modern fabrics used throughout. It includes clear step by step photographs, tutorial style, to explain each step of the way. A CD is included at the back of the spiral bound, hardcover book, which includes pdf patterns for 13 of the projects.

Stitch Savvy is a great book for any sewer who would love to build on their skills and learn new techniques.
A Google Preview is available over at Booktopia if you would like to see more of the inside pages. Stitch Savvy is available from Can Do Books and Booktopia

Book Details:
Publisher:   Krause Publications
Format:      Hardcover, 224 pages, Bonus CD includes 13 pdf patterns
ISBN:        9781440229473
RRP:         $29.99

Disclaimer: Please note we are not paid to write book reviews but we do receive a review copy of the book from distributors/publishers. 

Filed Under: Sewing Tagged With: book review

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Comments

  1. Andréa says

    June 13, 2013 at 1:40 pm

    Quanta coisa linda!!!
    Passa lá no meu blog tem sorteio!
    bjs
    Andréa

    Reply
  2. Anita says

    June 14, 2013 at 5:00 pm

    Hi Lisa and Sarah,
    Love those gorgeous little houses, so cute. The book would be something special to have in the book case!!
    Cheers, Anita.

    Reply
  3. Jane Green says

    June 29, 2013 at 8:32 am

    Oh my goodness – pages of eye candy – Makes for much motivation – Thanks for sharing the info.

    Reply

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We offer over 100 affordable PDF sewing patterns available for download from our store website or Etsy store. Each pattern includes detailed instructions, numerous photos, and templates.

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A quick, useful sew that always turns out sweet. T A quick, useful sew that always turns out sweet. The Handy Drawstring Pouch is one of my most‑loved patterns because it ticks all four pillars: useful, giftable, beginner‑friendly, and scrap‑friendly. Sew it in three sizes to suit anything from small notions to travel essentials.This one is made in Tilda Songbird and comes together fast with neat, satisfying steps. Perfect for gifts, organising, or weekend sewing.Comment HANDY and I’ll send the pattern link straight to you. 💗Pattern Details: Handy Drawstring Pouch ( available in our Pattern Store and Etsy Shop).Fabric: Tilda Songbird, with thanks from @tilda_australia#handydrawstringpouch #drawstringbag #tildafabric #sewingproject #aspoonfulofsugardesigns
A little patchwork magic for Spring 🐰✨ This Bunny A little patchwork magic for Spring 🐰✨ This Bunny Coaster comes together so quickly — perfect for scraps, gifting, or adding a sweet touch to your table.Comment BUNNY for the pattern link. Pattern is available in our Pattern Store and Etsy Shop.#bunnycoaster #eastersewing #scrapbusting #patchworkprojects #eastercrafts
Mug rugs are one of the most satisfying projects t Mug rugs are one of the most satisfying projects to sew — quick to finish, perfect for scraps, and such a lovely way to build your skills in small, low‑pressure steps. Little details like trimming curves, pressing well, and choosing the right batting can make a big difference to how flat and polished your mug rugs look.Swipe through for simple, beginner‑friendly tips that help your seams stay smooth, your corners turn neatly, and your finish feel more professional. Save this for the next time you need a quick, satisfying project.If you’re ready for your next make, I have a collection of 30+ mug rug and coaster patterns in my store — you’ll find the links in my profile.#mugrug #mugrugpattern #beginnersewingproject #scrapbustingsewing #aspoonfulofsugardesigns
My most‑made gift? The Bakers Buddy Mitt.Here ar My most‑made gift? The Bakers Buddy Mitt.Here are 3 reasons it’s always on my sewing table:
• No binding, which means it’s quick and beginner‑friendly
• Layers of Insul-Brite + batting to protect your hand
• A modern shape that looks beautiful in any stash fabricWant the pattern link? Comment BAKER and I’ll send it straight to your inbox.Perfect for gifting, scrap‑friendly, and such a satisfying make.Pattern details: Bakers Buddy Mitt (available in our Pattern Store and Etsy Shop).#quicksewingproject #beginnersewing #makersgonnamake #scrapbusting #giftideas
Why makers love this little pouch duo ✨The Hand Why makers love this little pouch duo ✨The Handy Drawstring Pouch + Mini Treat Pouch make such a sweet set — all beginner‑friendly, quick to sew, and perfect for using up your favourite fabric scraps. They’re lovely for gifting, organising, or adding a pop of colour to your sewing space.You’ll get both patterns in the bundle, and you’ll also save 25% — a thank you for choosing two of our most‑loved pouch designs.Which pouch would you sew first?Patterns linked in bio. Comment BAGDUO for the bundle link.Fabric: Tilda Songbird collection, kindly supported by @tilda_australia.#sewingcommunity #pouchmaker #beginnersewer #scrapfriendly #sewingpattern
The Scalloped Gift Bag is such a sweet little make The Scalloped Gift Bag is such a sweet little make — beginner‑friendly, quick to sew, and perfect for Easter or spring gifting. The colourful felt stars (or hearts!) are a lovely way to use your favourite felt scraps, and the scalloped edging adds that extra touch of charm.Comment SCALLOP for the pattern link.Pattern Details: Scalloped Gift Bag Pattern ( available in our Pattern Store & Etsy Shop)#scallopedgiftbag #sewingpattern #eastersewing #scrapfriendlysewing #aspoonfulofsugardesigns
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