Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #26997 in Books
• Published on: 2001-12-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Plastic Comb
• 270 pages

Customer Reviews

Good, but not the best
When my Simplicity book was on order from Amazon[.com], I went to the library and checked out the "Readers Digest Complete Guide to Sewing." Since I only want one basic reference on sewing, I want it to be the most comprehensive one. The Reader's Digest guide is, in my estimation, much more inclusive. I am more or less a beginner, and Readers Digest covers more techniques in better detail. It includes a fabric dictionary, in case a pattern recommends dimity and you don't know what that is. "Simplicity" seems to assume that you want to knock garments out in the least possible time, whereas I want to sew garments that have the best possible finish inside and out.
"Simplicity" does have some information that Reader's Digest does not--such as patternless projects and directions for sergers. On the other hand, the hand sewing techniques and fabric dictionary in Reader's Digest are things "Simplicity" doesn't have, and which I need. "Simplicity" is well-liked for its chatty style, but some might find that style more condescending than chatty.
My "Simplicity" book came shrink-wrapped, but did not include anything to get a free pattern.

It is "Simply the Best"
If you have ever taken sewing in high school, and you remember, "Hey I liked doing that!", but can't remember how to do it, this is the prefect sewing companion. It refreshes your memory, and teaches you things your teacher didn't. It has shortcuts, tips, and even a section on how to work with an overlock. It is clear, easy to understand, and fun to read. The first time you pick it up you want to sew something, anything, but you definitely want to sew! It has a FREE pattern offer, so you can start even sooner, color pictures, pattern-less patterns, and even neat little tricks! Simplicity's Simply the Best Sewing Book is, quite simply, "Simply the Best"!

Excellent
When I began sewing, I received this book and Sewing for Dummies. Over and over again I found myself turning to this book. It was much more comprehensive, where as Sewing for Dummies only included the most basic information. Even "beginners" patterns include instructions not covered in the Dummies book!

This book also has a very thorough index, something necessary in a reference book. The tone was conversational enough for you to read straight through before ever picking up a needle. In the back is a lovely section on "Easy Patternless Projects" that will help you gain confidence in your sewing and show you that your options aren't limited to the patterns available in the store. I gave it four stars rather than five because the clothing styles used throughout the book a little outdated and there could be more emphasis on non-fashion sewing, i.e. home accessories.