150+ Screen-Free Activities for Kids by Asia Citro; Adams Media

                       

Disclosure: Items mentioned in this post were sent for review purposes only. All opinions are 100% honest and my own. :)

Bring back playtime, all the time! Dive into a bubbling swamp world. Drum on an Outdoor Sound Wall. Explore the gooeyness of Glowing Slime.

With the one-of=a-kind projects in 150+ Screen-Free Activities for Kids, your family will rediscover the spirit of imaginative play! These fun activities help develop your child’s creativity and skills- all without a screen in sight. Featuring step-by-step instructions and beautiful photographs, each budget-friendly project will keep your child entertained, engaged, and learning all day long. Best of all, no one will complain about turning off the TV or computer with such entertaining activities!

• Natural Dye Fingerpaints
• Taste-Safe, Gluten-Free Playdough
• Erupting Volcano Dinosaur World
• Fizzy Rainbow Slush
• Taste-Safe Glow Water

Complete with dozens of exercises for babies, toddlers, and school-aged children, 150+ Screen-Free Activities for Kids will help your family step away from your devices and step into endless afternoons of playtime fun!

 

My kids get to watch TV and play games at times, but I limit the time on it. There are tons of educational games and shows, but kids these days need to do MORE and watch LESS. The cold weather keeps us from playing outside as much, so this book is perfect for the colder months.

This is a definite must-have for any parent, teacher, or grandparent. This book is filled with ideas and projects to get the kids excited. It’s split into chapters about making Slime, dough, paint, small worlds, sensory activities, and DIY Toys.

The first chapter is dedicated to explaining how to use the book. Asia explains “I know activity books can seem overwhelming- there are so many choices and perhaps you don’t have all the materials yet. So my challenge to you is just try one thing. Everyone has water, so check out Chapter 6: Simple Sensory Activities, and look at my water play activities.”

That’s what I love about this book! There are so many activities to try, yet most don’t require a ton of supplies. She even has all the supplies you need listed at the very beginning so you could get it all in one or two trips to Walmart or Dollar Tree. Nothing on the list costs very much, containing items like cornstarch, flour, baking soda, vinegar…

The memories that come from crafting and creating with my kids is what I love best. I want them to be able to look back and remember the things we did and the things they learned. We have craft night every Saturday (or every other depending).. but my kids LOVE it.

Chapter 2-Slimes

Slimes stretch, ooze, and goop and can be made in a variety of ways. I love that I can play guessing games with my kids before they use the different slimes they made. I can ask them questions like how far can it stretch, can it be cut with scissors, or if it can be rolled into a ball and bounced.

The slimes will usually last a week or more if sealed in a plastic bag. There are 11 different types of slime to DIY from this book. There is the simple two-ingredient slime, the polka dot slime, and even a glowing slime. They are all non-toxic and dye free, so most are even safe for babies. It tells on the page which ages can use each slime recipe.

Chapter 3-Doughs

There are an assortment of dough recipes, all of them can be stored in airtight containers to keep them from drying out. Playdough isn’t only fun, it helps with fine motor skills as well. Depending on your kids age she gives amazing ideas for learning/playing with the dough. Making or building different things or if your child is small- they can squish, pull, and roll it.

The classic playdough recipe in this book is cheap and lasts 4-6 months when stored at room temperature. Instead of paying money for plastic kid tools, use items you already have laying around you house. Keys, marker tops, toys, or kitchen gadgets (rolling pin, etc)

There are recipes including foam dough,salt dough, moon sand, play clay and so many more. There’s absolutely no dyes or chemicals in these recipes, so they are perfect for kids allergic to gluten, eggs, soy, and nuts!

Chapter 4-Paints

My kids love to paint, so I was glad to see a chapter dedicated to making our own. There are plenty of different paints, which are even safe for babies to fingerpaint with. Gel paints, glitter paints, puffy paints, sidewalk paints and even glowing paints! Love it!

Chapter 5-Small Worlds

My kids love imagination play and this is a cool way to boost their imagination. This chapter focuses on helping your child build small worlds to interact with. This included instructions on frog world, dinosaur rescue world, dragon world, ocean world,swamp world, insect world, and so many more!

These different little worlds are absolutely amazing and so cute. There’s nothing better to a kid to have their own little world where they can play and discover. Some of these do require stuff like water, dirt, and rocks—so you need a plastic see-through bin to create the worlds.

Chapter 6- Simple Sensory Activities

Simple sensory activities will help develop your child, their senses, and fine/gross motor skills. Sensory play includes a lot of pouring and scooping, filling different sized containers, and moving/selecting large and small bits of materials.

These activities do include senses such as touch, smell, and sight. They get to play in a variety of items such as colored water, colored pasta, colored beans, soap foam, colored salt, coffee grounds, shaving cream, flour, or sugar. This lets them touch and play with materials that all have a different texture when touched.

Chapter 7-DIY Toys

These toys are amazing for smaller kids and toddlers as well as babies. Making DIY toys with your children will be so much fun for them. This chapter features awesome stuff like DIY Cardboard Butterfly Wings, Foam Reusable Bath Sets, and a Recycled Car City. For babies they have PomPom Straw Push Toy, discovery bottles, and sensory boards.

We are in love with this book. I love how Asia (the author) doesn’t just help give me fun ideas to share with my kids, the materials are cheap and easy to find as well. The items can be found at Dollar Tree or WalMart and don’t cost an arm and a leg like some craft books for kids.

What are some of your favorite kid craft books? 

 

About the Author>

                 

Asia Citro, MEd, creator of the popular blog, Fun at Home with Kids, has a strong science and education background, and is an experienced teacher and mother of two. Fun at Home with Kids launched in 2013 and has been featured on Babble, Red Tricycle, Disney Baby, Apartment Therapy, and MSN.com, among others.

She lives near Seattle with her wonderful husband, two awesome children, and two destructive cats. She started writing Fun at Home with Kids in February of 2013 and has since spent many late nights experimenting with new play recipes and sensory materials.

150+ Screen-Free Activities for Kids: the best and easiest playtime activities from FunAtHomeWithKids.com is her first book and is jokingly referred to by family members as her third child. To read about her most recent late night discoveries or to see more photos of her adorable kids at play, visit www.funathomewithkids.com.

 

 

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Book Review: The Crocheter’s Companion Revised and Updated by Nancy Brown; Interweave Publishing /F+W Media #HolidayGiftGuide2013

Explore a guidebook with over 65,000 copies sold! Get more stitches, over 70 new illustrations, and step-by-step techniques in this new edition of The Crocheter's Companion.

This indispensable resource includes all of the essentials, plus a few exciting extras you've been longing for: more tools, stitches, and techniques, as well as updated yarn information, complete abbreviations and symbols, and additional information on reading stitch diagrams. Also, due to popular demand, the section on Tunisian crochet has been expanded.
Still in its handy pocket-sized, spiral-bound format, the updated edition covers all the basics (and then some!). Thread and hook charts, stitch instructions with clear illustrations, and lots of helpful hints from one of crochet's most experienced authors will inspire beginners and serious crocheters alike. With impeccable illustrations, an easy-to-understand format, and the most updated information available, The Crocheter's Companion will soon become the only crochet resource you'll need.

The Crocheter’s Companion is a pocket sized spiral bound reference book that every crocheter needs in their project bag. The spiral bound design allows the book to lie flat while working on a project, which I love. Usually I have to add paper weights on both sides of the pages to keep the book on the page.

This book is definitely packed with all the essential information that every crocheter needs, whether beginner or advanced. It has clear illustrations and detailed easy to follow instructions, so that even someone who has never picked up a crochet stick before can manage to follow along.

Step-by-step instructions on all the crochet stitches from basic to advanced. Beginning the foundation chain, chainless foundations, & single crochet and taking it up a notch to double crochet, treble crochet, extended double and treble crochet, and ending with the slip stitch.

I know how to crochet but not at an advanced level. I can make stitches and figure out how to put them together to actually make something out of it. I can make totes, bookmarks, tech cases and stuff. I haven’t managed to learn how to make clothes or anything that requires measuring anybody yet. This book has really take crochet to another level for me.

It has taught me so many interesting advanced techniques and finishes that I’d been trying to learn. Most books are just patterns or teaches the essentials but don’t go in depth to the more advanced stitches.

This shows how to make buttonholes, how to block, add edging, and working with seams. How to add in the decorative touches that really make crochet amazing such as cords, braids, buttons, pompoms, fringes, etc.

If you can manage to teach yourself the most essential stitches and use that- you’ll be crocheting up a storm in no time. That’s how I taught myself. I’d take it one stitch at a time, and just kept practicing! Before you know it, you’ll be putting patterns together in no time.

This book shows you how to work rows of stitches, in rounds, joining in new yarn, and how to shape pieces. This book explains in detailed instruction and illustration on how to do each stitch. This is the next step to learning the essential beginning stitches.

Then it takes it up another notch with the more advances stitches (which are just combining several beginner stitches). These would include shell stitch, popcorn stitch, cluster stitch, picot stitch..etc. Then it adds the different ways to crochet; bead crochet, aran crochet, filet crochet, multicolored crochet..etc.

It also adds in Tunisian crochet, which I’d never tried to master before. This is also called afghan crochet which is a blend of crochet and knitting. Then the end consists of troubleshooting and helpful hints. This helps with any problems you may run into or questions you may run into.

I love this book! I am glad that I have gotten the chance to add this to my collection! This would make an amazing gift for someone wanting to learn crochet, someone who knows how but would like to learn more, or someone who’d like a reference book!

About the Author:

Nancy Brown is the author of the original edition of The Crocheter's Companion, and her work has been featured in Interweave Knits, Scarf Style, and Knitting Socks with Handpainted Yarns(all Interweave). A crocheter for almost 40 years, Nancy served as executive vice president of the Crochet Guild of America and was the West Coast representative for Skacel Collection Inc. She lives in the Pacific Northwest.

Interweave/F+W Media, Inc; $19.95

* Amazon:

* Barnes & Noble:

* Interweave:

 

-Jessica

Perfect Party Dresses: 12 Superb Dresses to Smock and Sew edited by Susan O’Connor; Interweave Publishing

With beautiful photographs to inspire you, Perfect Party Dresses will be your guide to making party dresses dreams come true.

The easy to follow instructions for 12 glorious smocked dresses and 3 petticoats include more than 180 step-by-step photographs, full colour smocking graphs, detailed construction diagrams and multi-size liftout patterns.

Learn how to expertly tie a perfect sash bow, and discover helpful hints and tips for finishing touches and care of smocked and embroidered garments. Full-color smocking graphs, detailed construction diagrams and multi-size lift-out patterns.

Learn how to expertly tie a perfect sash bow and discover helpful hints and tips for finishing touches and taking care of smocked and embroidered garments. From birthdays to weddings, this beautiful collection of stunning smocking designs in sizes 2-10 years is sure to provide something spectacular for every special occasion in a young lady's life.

There is absolutely no better way to celebrate a party than with a new party dress. Every girl MUST know this right? The book Perfect Party Dresses is a beautiful collection of 12 really gorgeous dresses for little girls. Most of them have a very vintage feel to the look, which are all striking!

These dresses are beautiful, but they aren’t for beginners. The patterns are advanced, so you’ll need some experience with dress making before tackling any of the projects in this book! The instructions are very detailed and easy to follow along with. Each dress has at least 3-4 really amazing pictures of the dresses on girls so you can get a grasp of the flow of the material and how it looks once it’s completed.

Each dress has the ages that the dress is targeted to (ex. 6-8 years old) so that you know before you have to take measurements. It shows the fabric, notions, AND thread needed to complete each dress. I really appreciate this because I’ve started projects before and had to stop mid-way through because the book or instruction didn’t list a certain notion or a type of thread that I didn’t have and was essential to making it.

The full pattern to every dress is on a huge pullout sheet at the back of the book. This makes it 10x easier for me. I would rather trace patterns from a full pattern. I dislike scanning the smaller patterns and having to zoom and piece the pattern together with paper! That way there are NO creases or pieces running off printer paper. :/

Some of the dresses include embroidery (usually on the bib or sleeves of the dress). Even if you aren’t sure how to embroider the instructions take you step by step (picture and written word).

I love that the back of the book has instructions on how to make sleeve puffs, how to finish a bodice with lace, and how to care for/clean the dresses after they are made. It also gives detailed instructions on French seams, neckline piping, sashes, and so much more!

This book isn’t for beginners, you’ll need sewing experience before whipping anything up out of this book. If you do have the experience, this book is definitely a book you’ll want to add to your collection! If you KNOW someone who enjoys sewing, this book would make an amazing holiday present for them!

Get it: Perfect Party Dresses $22.73

Interweave, Barnes & Noble, & Amazon

About the Author

Susan O'Connor is a world-renowned designer, teacher and the former editor of Australian Smocking & Embroidery (AS&E), and her magnificent smocked garments have been published for 20 years.

 

 

-Jessica

Book Review & Giveaway: Crochet For Dolls; 25 Fun, Fabulous Outfits for 18-inch Dolls by Nicky Epstein; Nicky Epstein Books

Who better than design superstar Nicky Epstein to create an adorable collection of crochet patterns for today's wildly popular 18-inch dolls? Epstein's 25 playful, fashion-forward garments—from hats, coats, and jackets to dresses, skirts, tops, and pants—range from classic to chic to trendy, and she gives all the basics on measuring, getting a great fit, and choosing the right yarn and needles. Nicky's outfits make up a stylish complete doll wardrobe—perfect for a special little girl's special friend!

My daughter Adisyn turned 4 this year and so she got her first 18’ doll. I thought she was finally mature enough to care for one without losing it, breaking it, or stripping it naked and losing all it’s clothes.

Just like any normal girl, her “dolls” can never have enough clothes or accessories. What’s better as a mom then to be able to handcraft her those clothes and accessories? Something she can play with for years and years? Something she will love and cherish for a long time!Something she might want to keep to put in her memory box after she is through playing with them!

The uniqueness and originality of the designs is just absolutely stunning! I can’t say that there is ONE design in the book that I don’t want to make at some point in the future. There are a huge variety of patterns to make to suit any girls vivid imagination of where her doll will be going in that particular outfit!

My best friends daughter also collects dolls. She has almost the entire collection of American Girl Dolls, so making her a couple outfits would be the perfect Christmas gift for her! She would absolutely adore it, I’m sure!

Summer, Spring, Winter, and Fall. An outfit for all seasons. There’s an outfit for so many amazing things, to keep your “girl” interested in her doll, keep her imagination moving, and keep her playing for HOURS!

Let her cast her imagination into the world of a Royal Princess with this beautiful dress. A gown and a crown are all a girl needs to feel like a princess. It comes with dainty rosebuds dot on the skirt and a beautiful matching purse.

Let her be a wildflower. This beautiful hat, scarf, and mitten set is composed of colorful petals looks like it was picked from a flowerbed.

Give it a Whirl with this airy dress that has a pretty pinwheel on the bodice. It becomes an anytime ensemble with a matching jacket & purse.

Dressed up in Daises- A cozy turtleneck tunic embroidered with scarlet blossoms is pretty as a picture.

Pretty as a Picture- A loop-stitch skirt, a top with dainty buttons and ruffles, and a matching circle purse are a true work of art.

There are also funky, hip, unique styled clothing like the Fit for a Fiesta dress! There are so many different textures of fabric, made of different stitches. Some are simple stitches yet look so elegant while some are made of more complicated stitches!

There are also a variety of accessories which makes it SO much more amazing! Hats and purses galore! It even shows how to make little doll jewelry in the back! There are also recipes to accompany these little “imaginative” places your daughter is going to visit!

This would make an amazing Christmas present for someone who loves to crochet!

Biography

Nicky Epstein is one of today's most prolific and versatile knitwear designers, authors and teachers. She has gained worldwide recognition for her artistic, distinctive and innovative work, whimsical sense of style and informative workshops. Her designs continue to be featured in many knitting magazines and publications, on television, and in museums.

Buy IT: Crochet for Dolls by Nicky Epstein $19.95 from Sterling Books

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Jessica Renee

Book Review: Lunch Bags- 25 Handmade Sacks & Wraps to Sew Today by Design Collective; C&T Publishing

Brown Bag it in Style

• Projects include sandwich wraps, baggies, bicycle bags, and totes
• Quick and easy to make with basic sewing techniques; everyone in your family will want one!
• Customize the outside with your favorite fabrics and insulate the inside. You can waterproof it with laminated cotton, oilcloth, nylon, or vinyl.
• Projects are fun, functional, and reusable-make your sack lunches even greener!
• Bags can be washed in your dishwasher or washing machine

Today's hottest designers share their sewing savvy with 25 projects, from a simple sandwich wrap to a sophisticated shoulder bag. Why shouldn't your lunch bag match your personal wardrobe and eco-conscious lifestyle?

My Review

Wanting to tote that lunch in style? Lunch Bags offers much more than just lunch bags. It also has patterns and instructions for reusable wraps and sacks.

I LOVE using wraps and fabric sacks for the snacks and sides I sent to school with Aidan (and now Adisyn) as well as Adam’s lunch for work. Not only does it keep everything separated but it helps to keep plastic sacks from being thrown away.

You’ll NEVER want to use a regular old lunch bag or brown bag special once you see all the goodies within this book. As a seamstress, this had my creative senses tingling all over!

No matter what your looking for, or who you want to make it for- you’ll definitely find something that peaks your interest! They have eco-friendly wraps for snacks, picnic sized lunch bags, basic lunch bags, insulated lunch bags.. some even include instructions on how to make accessories to go with your lunch bag such as drink wraps!

All of the designs are practical and yet beautiful at the same time. There are a variety of materials; denim, cotton fabric, burlap, lace.. and even plastic drink pouches (kool aid or capri sun pouches).

Each bag is designed by a different crafter, so no two bags are similar. There are some for beginners.. and some that require more experience. They all look very sturdy, durable, and well put together!

The instructions are very clear, detailed, and precise. There are pictures that follow—so it’s easy to flip through and pick which one you fancy! Every ONE of these would make awesome gifts!

BUY IT: Lunch Bags for $15.95

Connect with C&T Publishing:

Facebook, Youtube, Pinterest, and Twitter

 

Jessica Renee

Book Review: Happy Stitch 30 Felt & Fabric Projects for Everyday by Jodie Rackley

Stitch up a smile!

You can't help but feel happy while whipping up these charming felt and fabric projects! With a few simple stitches and some basic materials, you'll be crafting in no time at all. From plush animals to electronics cozies to curtains and pillows, you'll love filling your home with bright and colorful crafty creations!
Inside you'll find:

• Step-by-step instructions and photography that make stitching a breeze!

• 30 different projects, perfect for gift-giving, home decoration and creative crafting

• An embroidery stitch library that puts all the basic stitches for embellishing your handmade treasures at your fingertips

So gather you felt, fabric, and floss, and stitch up a little happiness.


My Review

Sometimes in life we get caught up in the rush. We need to take more time to sit, relax, and enjoy life rather than just rushing through the days. I craft and create because I like the feel of creating something out of nothing. I love seeing the look on people's faces as they receive something handmade from me.

Having something made especially for YOU is another feeling entirely. It's not like having someone buy you a gift at the store for that only requires money. Having someone spend their time, craft, and intellect on you is another matter entirely. AND it makes people smile from ear to ear!

From the very first chapter until the very last, this book draws you and won't let go. It's bright and colorful patterns and the cuteness that it can bring into your life. All of the projects are easy. The best thing about them is that they don't require anything but the bare minimum.

There isn't a full list of notions and tools that you need to get the project completed. Some of the books I've gotten were AMAZING but you have to go the store JUST for some of the essentials to make it. It's harder that way because when inspiration strikes, it strikes!

This is the perfect book for someone who is a beginner, or someone looking for a few quick easy to create projects. The projects in this book take less than an hour to create, so get your inspiration on and make someone HAPPY HAPPY! ;)

I really love how the book is organized. Before EVERY single project is a layout of what is needed, the techniques used, and shows a close up of the embroidery stitches. There are MANY different ways to utilize these embroidery stitches into so much more than the projects divided. Once you learn a new technique, it's easy to make more of your own designs with your knowledge of techniques used before!

The project descriptions are clearly detailed in a step by step manner that is very easy to follow. The author adds little tips on most of the projects so that you can create multiples of the project yet it be slightly different each time (very great thing for when you're making gifts).

There are so many cute projects; Ereader cozy, computer cover. headbands, card cases, totes, pillow cover, apron, necklace, placemats, and so much more!


About the Author
Jodie Rackley is a self-taught crafter, designer and artist, who loves to blend vintage flare with modern craft to make colorful and stylish decor and accessories. She has been featured on MarthaStewart.com, ApartmentTherapy.com and SublimeStitching.com. Her line of felt and fabric gifts, Lova Revolutionary, is carried by many brick and mortar stores in the US and internationally, and sells worldwide through Etsy.com.

Buy It: Happy Stitch: 30 Felt & Fabric Projects for Everyday by Jodie Rackley for $15.47


Jessica Renee

Book Review: Sewing Solutions Tips and Techniques for the Savvy Sewist by Nicole Vasbinder; Interweave Publishing

Have a sewing mishap? Sewing Solutions has you covered! Even the most experienced sewist encounters problems, snags, and little glitches. When you need answers, you’ll find no better resource than Sewing Solutions, from expert teacher and author Nicole Vasbinder.

 

Organized by stages, you’ll find:

• Detailed Advice about the sewing process, including pros and cons, and basic considerations of working with a variety of tools and materials.
• An easy to follow layout that provides basic information as well as step-by-step techniques for making bias tape, attaching and sewing trims, buttonholes, zippers, hems, and more.
• Troubleshooting tips that advise how to deal with common sewing obstacles.

Whether choosing the right tools, reading patterns correctly, and everything in between, Sewing Solutions will prove to be an essential sewing companion.

My Review

 

This book hits right on the money. Whether you are a beginner needing to know the basics of sewing, someone who has the basics down but wants to know OTHER certain things (like how to translate pattern envelopes), or an expert who just needs a touch-up.

I’m the middle-man in sewing expertise. I’m not a beginner, but yet I’m not an expert either. There are a few EXTRA’s that I really needed to know about- such as the different types of clothing patterns.

I’ve made just about every type of bag, wallet, tote, and toys you could imagine- but I have issues with clothing. I’m scared to use that much fabric and mess it up. There’s only a slight difference between a size 2 and 4- I don’t want to cut it too short and then be stuck with fabric that’s too small to do anything with.

So I really needed help with fitting. I would have loved to own this book when I first began my sewing adventure. They break everything down, tells exactly what it is, and how to work with it.

There are two sections to this book. The first section is nothing but the sewing tools, notions, trims, and miscellaneous items you need to begin sewing. What they are and what they do are both explained so that you know WHY exactly you need them!

The second section is solutions and tips to fabric, patterns, sewing, embellishments, fitting, and finishing. This is what I needed the most help with was the fitting and finishing.

 

Section 1

Chapter 1 is Sewing Tools.  This is the chapter that tells all about the different types of sewing machines, where you can get them (AND make sure you test your machine before taking it home), and how often the machine should be cleaned and what will happen if it isn’t cleaned.

How to insert and wind bobbins, the different stitches, all about Serger machines, and different sewing feet (basic feet, zipper feet, button feet..). The difference between Machine and Hand sewing needles and what the numbers on them mean.

Chapter 2 is notions and trims. This is once you have the basics down pat and are ready to move on to the next level. Notions refer to all sewing materials EXCEPT for the fabric. These are the tools that you use to get the job or project done!

Knowing the difference between the different threading and what projects they are good for is something that EVERY seamstress should know. Then there is the applique, beaded and sequined trims and how to properly sew them onto your project.

This was something that confused me when I first began sewing. I knew how to applique (straight applique), but they have reverse applique as well (which is trickier).

What is bias tape, what is it used for, and can I make my own? These are all questions that are answered in this chapter. As well as attaching braided trims, elastics, and lace.

Did I mention piping, welting, corded edges, pom poms, fringes, and ruffles? These are all covered as well. She doesn’t leave OUT anything in this book. I love that it is broken down into comprehensive wording so that even a beginner can understand.

What about ribbons and rick-rack, Closures, fasteners, D-rings, and eyelets? Hooks, eyes, Snaps, zippers, hook and loop fasteners? All this can be very confusing at first, she tells in detail how to apply each and whether they can be stitched right onto the fabric.

Chapter 3 is marking, measuring, and cutting tools. Besides just your sewing machine and thread, there are other tools that you need. You need to measure, mark, and cut your fabric so you get a precise project fitting. Accurate marking makes it easier to cut, the right (fabric) scissors make it easier to cut, and measuring makes it easier to get it right!

All the tools you need to begin may become a little confusing at first. What are they, what do they do, and the different types of each tool are all listed in this book.

• Tailors chalk
• markers and pens
• tracing wheels
• transfer paper
• basic and specialty measuring tools.
• Cutting Tools
  • Rotary cutters, scissors, self-healing mats

Chapter 4 is miscellaneous tools. These are all the smaller tools that you need that will definitely be of help to you. Pins, seam ripper, point & loop turners, bodkins, seam sealant, bias tape makers, patterned paper, pattern notchers and awls, and dress forms.

These are the tools that you’ll be looking for when you’re in need. The pins hold your completed pattern together why you sew that it doesn’t come apart. A seam ripper helps to tear the seam if you accidentally messed up. Point turners help push the sides out of a purse for instance. These are all really helpful things, and it’s a good idea to know what they are before making the sewing journey.

 

Section 2

There is more to sewing then just grabbing a fabric and starting a project. First you need to know WHICH fabric is best for what project. You don’t want to use linen or something that is lightweight for a purse. You want it to stand-up to wear and tear and not be flimsy and fall apart.

Fabric is made by weaving, pressing, or knitting yarns, threads, or fibers together. So you need to look at the anatomy of the fabric and what you’re choosing before you start a project. Read the pattern and see what type of fabric is needed before you begin.

There are more than 40 different varieties of fabrics and they are all very different. This book breaks down what each are and how you can tell which type of fabric it is.

I didn’t know that if you clipped a small piece off the fabric and burned it you can tell what it is by the way it smells when burning and what the ashes look like. That was very interesting to me, and I’ve already used it a time or two already!

Do you know the difference between interfacing and lining? The different types of each? That there are 7 main things to look for when choosing the right fabric?

The 7 things to look for:

• Drape of the fabric.
  • How does the fabric drape on the body? Does it cling to the curves of your body? Stand away from the body?
• Difficulty of the fabric
  • Use simple fabrics for difficult projects and save the difficult fabrics for the easier stuff, don’t make it harder than it has to be.
• Durability.
  • Everyday items should be used with fabrics that can stand lots of use- don’t use a fabric that pills and frays.
• Expense
  • use low-priced fabrics for projects that need a lot of yardage.
• Hand
  • How does the fabric feel against your hand? Scratchy fabrics won’t work against the skin because they are irritating. They need lining- or choose a softer fabric.
• Plaids and Prints
  • Will there be a lot of seams that interrupt the the print?
• Sheer Fabrics
  • Does it need to be lined? That will add extra time.

Chapter 6 is all about patterns. The front and back of a pattern envelope has important information so that you choose the right size and pattern for your liking.

This breaks down how to clearly decipher the envelope so that you can easily read the information without getting confused or irritated. Each has certain pattern symbols and terms that need to be read without problems.

You’ll easily learn how to see the different pattern pieces. This will help you determine WHICH pattern you actually need to cut (especially helpful if it’s clothing) because it will need to be fitted to your body.

It also shows how to choose the right fabric for certain patterns, and how to lay them so that the grainline matches up with the pattern. I love the little extra tips in the book which help a beginner. TIP: Tissue paper patterns can be hard to work with because they are so flimsy, Iron fusible interfacing to each piece so it’s easier to work with and easier to cut out!

I never even thought about doing that, but I KNEW I hated working with the tissue paper patterns. They are very hard to cut out properly because they are so thin that they rip. Overtime they start to wear and tear as well, which makes it hard to maintain proper pattern cut-out. This is GENIUS!

This is definitely a must-have reference book for anybody wanting to sew or someone who already knows how but needs extra information! This is STAYING right beside my sewing machine from now on. There is tons of invaluable information!

Even if you are an expert, you might need a refresher every now and then- you never know. This is the perfect size to fit right in a sewing drawer or beside your machine! Never be stumped again!

 

About the Author:

 

Nicole Vasbinder owns and operates StitchCraft and an independent accessory line, Queen Puff Puff. A founding teacher of Stitch Lounge in San Francisco, she currently teaches at Stonemountain and Daughter Fabrics. Her designs has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Adorn Magazine, JoAnn Magazine, Venus Zine, and Craft. She lives in Petaluma, California.

Buy It: You can buy the Sewing Solutions- Tips and Techniques for the Savvy Sewist for $19.95

Check out ALL Interweave publishings amazing titles, both new and not!

 

Jessica Renee