cover image Sew Organized for the Busy Girl: Tips to Make the Most of Your Time and Space; 23 Quick & Clever Sewing Projects You’ll Love

Sew Organized for the Busy Girl: Tips to Make the Most of Your Time and Space; 23 Quick & Clever Sewing Projects You’ll Love

Heidi Staples. C&T/Stash, $22.95 paper (112p) ISBN 978-1-60705-979-0

The title of this slim book is a bit off; there are a dozen or so projects here, with variations. The concept’s wonky, too, as most readers will expect simple sewing projects that they can leap right into, but the author thinks that carefully organizing and preparing for sewing are what save time. Staples, a crafts blogger, has created an introductory section full of journaling prompts and organizational strategies that may seem to be the exact opposite of what “busy girls” have time to do. That said, the projects themselves are modern, cute, and indeed clever, relying mostly on simple quilting techniques. A Book Nook pillow perfect for relaxing and reading features a nine-patch pocket, while an envelope clutch can carry a manicure set or art supplies, depending on which size is sewn. All of the helpful tips, such as how to “audition” fabric and whether to allow your kids in your sewing room, are right on the money. Though Staples claims at the outset that this book is male-friendly, she’s really after the mom demographic, and it seems likely that her charming aesthetic and relatable style will capture their attention. Full-color photographs. (Mar.)