Handbook of Sewing Stitches: An Illustrated Guide to Techniques and Materials

Oct 12

This is a brilliant book jam packed with 250 pages sewing techniques including hand stitches, machine stitches and decorative stitches and is really well illustrated. The book also has a textile directory which includes advice on working with all kinds of fabrics.

Jun/Jul 12

This has got to be one of the most practical little books that we've come across. At first glance, I thought it was a straightforward stitch dictionary - but it's so much more than that. Yes, it includes clear instructions for some decorative hand embroidery stitches, but it also explains various methods for attaching sequins and beads. Sewing machine stitches are also covered, so, if you're not confident when using a sewing machine, you'll find the descriptions of adjusting zigzag stitching, blind hemming and gathering very useful. If you want to do a bit of dressmaking or tailoring or just make of piece of your embroidery into a cushion, bag or garment, the section on seams, hems, edges and fastenings is a real boon. This would be a great book for beginners, but more experienced stitchers are sure to find a lot of good tips and techniques here too.

Lorna Knight specialized in textiles at Queen Margaret University College in Edinburgh. After working as a designer's assistant, she spent ten years teaching Design and Technology in middle schools in the UK before setting up a business designing and making lingerie and running workshops teaching a wide range of sewing skills. She continues to run workshops which involve passing on hints and tips from both the couture and high street fashion worlds, enabling her students to create their own garments and projects. Lorna also writes regularly for Sewing World magazines and has contributed to many sewing books and other fashion sewing publications.