cover image Sew Happy: Stitch Yourself Stylish with 25 Step-by-Step Projects

Sew Happy: Stitch Yourself Stylish with 25 Step-by-Step Projects

Karin Ziegler. DK, $14.95 trade paper (144p) ISBN 978-1-46545-124-8

The idiosyncratic offerings in this beautifully executed manual by German fashionista Ziegler, who founded the brand Blutsgeschwister, will particularly appeal to younger sewers who might find typical pattern books a bit too fusty and conservative. The first chapters introduce sewing basics, examining the tools that provide the foundation of “successful sewing” and providing a primer on sewing machine capabilities. Ziegler guides beginners on how to use pattern chart sheets and different types of stitches. She breaks down her whimsical aesthetic for readers with briefs on Breton stripes, polka dots of many sizes, all manner of checks, and florals. Particularly helpful sections include pattern making, suggestions on adapting a pattern if a garment doesn’t fit, and a showcase of a wide variety of necklines. With instructions for heart-shaped pockets, fabric hammocks, and even a fabric-covered hula hoop, this book guides readers to not only a fun wardrobe but a fun lifestyle to boot. [em](May) [/em]