I've never been one for book reviews, but on this occasion I am going to make an exception. I spotted The Liberty Book of Home Sewing in my local library this week and I just had to get it. Put together by the people who make Liberty fabrics and published by Quadrille Publishing Ltd, it is filled with an interesting choice of projects.
All the projects are very simple to make although the instructions are not exactly laid our for someone completely new to sewing.
What I like about this book is that the simple way the patterns are shown opened my eyes to how easy it would be to create my own patterns and inspired me to use the ideas given in my own way.
The round poof cushion looks complicated but really couldn't be simpler. The panels are all rectangular and are gathered in the middle giving a gorgeously gathered appearance to the cushion.
Other projects include a gadget case, keepsake board, roman blind, simple curtains and eco shopper, an ottoman beanbag, book covers, lampshade, rose throw and two quilts.
One of the projects I can't wait to try is the rose cushion using an adaptation of ribbon rose making on a larger scale. It looks beautiful and this simple method can be used in so many ways from decorating the collars or hems of a coat to edging a quilt or making a statement piece of art to hang on the wall.
Another favourite of mine is the peacock pin cushion with it's beautiful feathers standing proudly. I think this would make a fantastic door stop and look equally fabulous on my dressing table wearing a few of my necklaces.
Of all the pieces however, the rose corsage is probably the most versatile and creative of the projects. So simple to make and yet so effective. It would look great on a headband, embellishing a bag or as a pin on a coat lapel.
If you made up a bunch of these roses in complementary colours, they would look amazing displayed in a vase as an eternal bouquet and would make a wonderful gift for Valentines day.
At the back of the book, there is a section showing the history of each of the fabrics showcased in this book, when they were originally released and how they have evolved over time. There is even a how-to section about the basics of sewing hems, edges, seams etc.
There is so much to love about this book. Whether you are looking for something to make, enjoy finding out more about fabric or just want to find some inspiration, this book is worth taking a look at.
What have you come across lately that would be worth sharing with us? I'd love to hear about them.
M
No comments:
Post a Comment