Want to know the best marketing ploy\add in for a book, ever? Pre-cut fabric, ready to sew so that you can immediately create the same project that appears on the front cover of a book. What am I talking about? My own Cath Kidston:

A couple of weeks ago, I bought a copy of Sew! Tucked away inside the front flap was all the materials necessary to re-create the adorable bag that graced the front cover – not only was everything pre-cut, but the buttons and even a label was provided! Since I was in need of an (instant gratification) project, I couldn’t think of a better one to try!
Overall, the instructions were fine, although if you’re a beginner, you may be wishing for more illustrations. Also keep in mind that measurements are in the metric system, so you’ll need to convert if you’re in the states. The fabric is beautiful, but is a VERY heavyweight twill (this bag doesn’t use interfacing and keeps it’s shape nicely) and is difficult to turn right side out. So hard, in fact, that I had to change the way I constructed the button loop because I never could get the tube to turn (trimming the seams is also recommended even though you’re using relatively small seam allowances, it does help to get things to press nicer). All in all, I love my new bag – and it’s got such a pretty print, it’s perfect for this spring weather we’ve been feeling!