Kay Whitt has a certain style that makes her patterns so distinctive. I’ve long admired some of her bags and dresses, so when I saw she was writing a book, I put it on my Amazon wishlist. I’ve had several weeks to thumb through Sew Serendipity: Fresh and Pretty Designs to Make and Wear
and I have to say, I’m not disappointed.
The thing that impressed me most about this title is that there is an entire section devoted to “Custom Fitting”. While this area isn’t extensive, there are tips on how to do some basic adjustments (length of skirts, jackets, sleeves, bodice, as well as adjusting the neckline and shoulders and hip\waist) – something that seems to be missing from most books with similar projects. I think that this is an important section for books that deal with creating your own clothing, especially if the recipient is someone with limited experience in garment making. I will also add, there is a great, illustrated, step-by-step guide on installing invisible zippers which I found very helpful – I always seem to have a problem setting them in correctly.
The patterns themselves are adorable. Although I’ve got to admit, not all of them are quite my style – as much as I like the shabby chic look, I just don’t pull it off well. That’s not to say that I didn’t find several patterns that I intend on sewing up for myself (or maybe even Taylor): The Geometric Tunic Dress, Damask Tunic, the Classic Tailored Jacket, and yes, even the Multi-Fabric Skirt (as seen on the front cover of the book). All the patterns are neatly stored in a envelope in the back of the book and are all full size (I find this a very important feature as I absolutely despise having to enlarge my patterns), best of all, the book is spiral bound – so there’s no wrangling with the pages (or cracking the spine of the book, something that is a ‘no-no’ in our house) while you’re sewing! I’m looking forward to sewing one of these patterns up in the near future, but if you’ve already had a chance to do this, I’d love to hear about your experience with it!
The Bottom Line: Not only is Sew Serendipity
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Thanks for this review. I have almost ordered this book twice and changed my mind at the last minute. I just got a Borders coupon, and I know where I will use it.
Thanks for the review. Just took a peek at this book on Amazon and I’m impressed by the detailed instructions and photos. The styles are not what I wear, but they are fresh and appealing. Great book to encourage beginners. I may feature it on my blog in the future.
I picked up this book when it the store a couple of weeks ago. I like the fact that this is a well detailed book, and she drew all of the illustrations for it as well. She does stress that you can customized and make the project your own. I am not going to choose any of the print fabrics shown in the book because her style has more of a country chic feel, however, there is also a vintage feel to the patterns as well which is the current trend. I live in New Jersey and work in NYC, so I can customized the look. Maybe doing the tunic dress in a lightweight wool cranberry (or something close to it)with a belt, and make a beaded broach. I think there are several possibilities.
I just bought this one today! I like it, and you know me. I mix prints for myself all the time, so of course I like it!
but…I also think I’ll be using the patterns in a somewhat more tamed version. Page after page of mixed print garments was a little overwhelming, even for me! But I do love her style. Have you tried any of the McCalls patterns she has done?
Thanks for the review Stacy. I think it’s just a matter of time before I can’t resist the urge to purchase it!
Cindy
Oops! Hit submit too soon. The only thing that’s stopped me from most of her patterns is they have zippers in the back. I’m just not nimble enough to zip a zipperup the back, and don’t want to have assistance when I want to get dressed/undressed!
Thank you for this review. I love the projects in this book and if a sewer like you finds it worthwhile, I bet I will too.