One of my favorite books that is on my sewing bookshelf is Sew U“ (you can read my review of Sew U here). Not only did I find it jam packed with lots of great information, but it was very inspiring as well – especially when it came to taking a basic pattern and altering it into something that looks completely different than the original design. So when I got my hands on Wendy’s newest book, Sew U Home Stretch: The Built by Wendy Guide to Sewing Knit Fabrics, I had HUGE expectations – and I wasn’t disappointed.
Once again, Wendy seems to understand what the novice seamstress needs to know about working with knits and writes in a way that anyone can understand. She devotes much of the book to the basics – what supplies you’ll need (by the way, a serger is recommended by not necessary for the projects in the book), identifying and selecting stretch fabrics, how to work with the patterns in the book (selecting the right size, pattern making basics), tips and tricks for knits, how to prepare your pattern and fabric for cutting (with important information like matching plaids and stripes, how to find the right side of the fabric, how to make and work with several styles of binding), and even a section on recycling your old tees. And no matter what your sewing level is, from beginner to advanced, you’ll find that there are instructions tailored to your skills – for example a beginner may opt to make a tee with a rolled hem while someone who has a bit more experience may try their hand at a shirt with a coverstitched hem.
Of course, my favorite part of this book are the designs. Included in Sew U Home Stretch are 3 full size patterns – a crewneck, raglan sleeved shirt, and a dress\skirt. Each pattern has a section of the book with details how it can be morphed into 6 different looks. For example, the Crewneck can be changed into garments such as a tank, v-neck, boatneck, and even a dress; the Raglan into a hoodie, halter, or even a beach cover up; while the dress can be made into cute halter or even a pretty baby-doll. Now my biggest decision is what to make first!
In my opinion, Sew U Home Stretch is another ‘must have’ on your book shelf… and here’s your chance to put one on yours. I have one copy to give away to a lucky reader – just post a comment in this thread by midnight on Sunday. I’ll select a winner by random number generator on Monday morning and Wendy Mullin’s latest book will be all yours!