I think I’ve been procrastinating writing a review of Bend the Rules with Fabric
So, what didn’t I like? It’s not so much that I didn’t like it, it’s that there wasn’t really any new information to be learned. There are 4 basic methods to creating your own fabric (aside from designing your own on Spoonflower): painting it (including stamping, freezer paper stenciling, and coloring with pens and brushes), using your computer (iron on transfers and printing on fabric sheets), dying it (removing dyes with a bleach pen, fabric resists, etc.), and applique\’drawing with thread and I believe I’ve done them all except using PhotoEZ. Many, if not all, of these methods and tutorials can be found somewhere on the web or the instructions that come with the product.
So, what about the projects in Bend the Rules With Fabric? I think I wouldn’t mind the fact that I was familiar with the techniques if the projects in the book were amazing. The fact is, there aren’t that many that I want to make. I understand that this book is not designed for sewing so many of the projects are made with pre-purchased materials, but the end result of some of them look very ‘homemade’. Don’t get me wrong, I love handmade items, but I like the finished product to look a bit more ‘polished’. I really don’t see myself wanting to wear a stamped belt (made with canvas strapping), lace necklace, or a ‘threadpainted’ shirt\dress made from a design Easton or Taylor made. However, I do think that the fabric sheet dolls, ‘band’ shirts and the lunch bag are simply adorable.
The bottom line: I really wanted to like this book, but after spending a week with it, I just can’t get into it. If you’re wanting to create your own fabric, spend some time on the web and research what methods you’d like to try or better yet, go to a craft and hobby store and browse the isle – there’s a treasure trove of cool gadgets, tools, notions, and paint to be discovered to create your own one-of-a-kind projects. If you’re wanting to learn more about this book, hop over to The Storque who has one of my favorite projects from the book up to make.
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Ahhh, fiddlesticks. You were really looking forward to that book too.
You know, I felt the same way about this book. Too bad, since Amy’s fabulous! I got the feeling that I (and it sounds like you as well) wasn’t the audience for this book… Know what I mean?
I have never been able to get fired up about “new” ways to embellish/print fabrics. I LOVE fabric and constantly collect, fondle, dream up uses for, etc all kinds of it. The quality and wide choice already available keep me busy enough!
That said, the use of printer-ready fabric to copy favorite images for specific uses DOES appeal to me. But I don’t need a book for that.
I’m glad I’m not the only one who felt this way about the book. I’m not new to sewing and I think Amy’s first book was better for beginners, but I enjoyed it anyway, because I found it inspiring. I found this book totally uninspiring. I was disappointed.
Thanks for your honesty, Stacy. I don’t think I’d get too much out of it either.
Ouch! That was quite a review.
Stacy – I am so glad to have such an honest review. So many sites just promote crafter books without giving reviews. I really appreciate your thoughts on this. This book would be good for someone who doesn’t take the time time or have the time to really do their own research online.
After I read your review, I went to Barnes and Noble for the first time in ages and perused it and agree with your opinion on it.
While I was there, I picked up a copy of Sew News and saw your project on the COVER! You may have said it but it didn’t register. The COVER!!!! How exciting. You should frame that for your sewing room. You must be so proud. Great job.