5 comments about Sew U: The Built by Wendy Guide to Making Your Own Wardrobe.

1. The book is great for beginners, since it shows step by step how to start sewing REAL clothes.
   
   BUT, I had a problem. The book is supposed to include the pattern of pants, skirt and shirt, I just got two copies of the shirt pattern. When I complained to the company and asked for the missing patterns I didn't get a good response from Built by Wendy staff.



2. this book was extremely helpful and nothing like a boring directional book that i'd fall asleep reading. It was very clear and helpful for a beginner like me and was able to keep my attention/interest.



3. Just reading this book has taught me a lot about sewing clothes. I haven't tried any of the projects as of yet, but plan to do so soon.



4. This book really get down to business and tell you how to you can make your own clothes that you can wear and be fashionable.
   Since the author was self-taught, she is able to share her experience and tips on how to get from not knowing anything, to really get to make clothes that you can really wear in an informal style. Throughout the whole book, it just feels like it is your next door neighbour in the dorm who tells you all the tips on how she makes all these and look fabulous every day!
   All her tips and tricks are do-able and really down-to-earth, no unrealistic fashion items, perfect book for people who don't have professional training but really want to make their own clothes and look fabulous.



5. I liked the format of the book, and she had some really good information about techniques and terms. I also appreciate the variations she demonstrates in the chapters for shirts, skirts, and pants. They may not all appeal to me, but they show what is possible with some tweaks to basic patterns. She encourages the reader to be creative and experimental.
   
   She really does gloss over very important information for the beginner. For example, I just finished a pair of pants from her book. Over all the instructions were fine, except when I went to make the belt loops. She doesn't actually mention how to make them! When I took my best guess based on the pattern, the material shredded as I tried to turn them right-side out. I had no idea if this was a problem with the material or my procedure!

5 comments about Elizabeth Zimmermann's Knitting Workshop.

1. My first EZ was the Optionnated Knitter which is a very good book. This one is the best! More than patterns, you find "the way to"... As for the 1st one, I wish it would be translated in french (and other european langages) so we could all discover the wonderful universe of EZ.



2. I would recommend Elizabeth Zimmermann's Knitting Workshop book to everyone with an interest in knitting. My reason for buying this book was to learn how to make EZ's Baby Surprise Jacket. The BSJ is knitted in a unique way. She also has several other knitting patterns that are unique. I learned new and easier ways to knit.



3. A great book for a beginner. She calms your fears and helps you complete a project all by page 31. If you take the time you will be a great knitter. She teaches you to take risk and learn new techniques as you go along. I have made the hat several times and still read the book because I enjoy her writing. This book gives you classic patterns you can use again and again. She also gives you free reign to be creative and create your own pattern by giving a basic understanding of patterning for the yoke sweater. This book has it all technique and style.



4. I haven't read the book in chronological order, I've just skimmed around for tidbits I needed. I'm not really adventurous when it comes to knitting, I go by the written pattern and that is the main reason I bought the book in the first place - to hopefully add some of my special flare.
   
   The inside of the book is pretty boring (black and white) but anything that EZ has to say is both easy to read and humorous along the way.
   
   All n' all, I like the book and I'm glad to have it in my collection of knitting books.



5. EZ is worth reading but her instructions are seriously lacking. The "lessons" are rambling and unfocused. She jumps from one topic to another in a way that probably makes sense in the video series but doesn't translate well on paper.
   
   She mentions several types of sweater but none of them have very good instructions. I'm not the kind of knitter that needs stitch by stitch instructions but I find her vague directions disconcerting. If there are no pictures to show me what she's doing, then I need more information about the pattern. I suppose these patterns are a good jumping off point for making your own sweaters, but only if you have other, better, references at hand.
   
   I was also disappointed by the baby surprise jacket instructions. I thought the adult version was also in the book but it's only got a small mention. Now if I want to make it I either have to figure it out on my own or pay yet more money for another pattern. And I've heard the pattern from Schoolhouse Press for the ASJ is just as vague as the BSJ pattern.
   
   There are a few black and white photos of finished works and a bunch of hand drawn pictures. Would it kill Schoolhouse Press to update the font and photos a little?
   
   EZ is famous in the knitting world. So this book, like all of her books, is worth reading but not worth buying. Check your local library.

5 comments about Sewing 101: A Beginner's Guide to Sewing.

1. This was a gift for my daughter, which was given to her with a new sewing machine. It looks like she is learning a lot from the book and enjoys reading it.



2. I really expected this book to break down the process of reading patterns, but it didnt. I still think that they look like really bad jiggsaw puzzles and I know no more than I did when I started. Oh wait, I know that I should IRON the fabric before I start working with it. THANKS!
   
   I dont know what Im going to do, I'm afraid to buy a bunch of books trying to figure out how to sew and where I live, classes are limited. I saw that there was a video, but it got some pretty poor reviews. My brand new machine is in the basement taking up space.



3. This was a great purchase to help me start making simple things with the sewing machine. I was worried that it may not be low enough to teach me everything I needed to know, but it was, and it covers enough things to get you sewing everything from clothes to pillows to drapes. It was a great buy!!!



4. I've purchased this book as it was required for a sewing class I've taken recently. It's a really good guide for beginners. It is full of pictures and there's a glossary at the end of the book. The only thing is, the pictures, the models are a bit old, so they might not inspire you enough for sewing. But don't care about that part, you'll sew the patterns you buy, anyway. :) The book is spiral-binded, which makes it easy to use when you work from it. I recommend this book for anyone who is new to sewing, this book is really helpful.



5. I bought this book for my daughters and I ended up using it more than they. This is a great little reference book with step-by-step guidance in all your basic sewing needs. Whether you are a beginner or experienced in this craft, you'll find this very useful.

5 comments about A Beginner's Guide to Kiln-Formed Glass: * Fused * Slumped * Cast.

1. This is an amazing book, full of instructions and photographs of various projects, encompassing both utilitarian and art objects.



2. Brenda Griffith's book represents a state-of-the-art, common-sense approach to working with kiln-formed glass. Beginning with the basics, the author takes readers through materials; tools; supplies; studio setup and safety; and, techniques. Readers can then work through various projects to gain additional practice and greater understanding..
   As an educator, I was impressed with the author's writing "voice." She does not preach nor talk down to her readers - she shares information with them, resulting in a high comfort level from her readers. The "Gallery Contributors" provide a means for stimulating ideas that go beyond the projects. The net result is marvelous.
   I work in a studio shared by artists at various levels of proficiency. A friend and I bought three of Brenda's books at the One of a Kind Sale in Chicago and took them into the studio to share with others. (I didn't even see my copy for two weeks because it was "on loan.") A few days later, one of my colleagues came rushing into the studio, calling out, "I just got the best book out on working with kiln-formed glass! It's just super!" And, indeed it is.
   The book has become a bible to the artists learning to work with kiln-formed glass. It's not uncommon to hear things like, "Well, you should have known you couldn't fire it a third time - it's in the book!" Or, "Think about kiln-finishing that piece instead of wasting all that time grinding - the directions are in the book." And, "If you'd followed the schedule in the book for increasing the temperature in the kiln, the glass wouldn't have cracked!"
   Every once in a while a book is published that delivers what it promises. Brenda Griffith's book does just that and whose of us who work with kiln-formed glass are all the better. I can't wait to see what she follows it up with.



3. Here is a book well worth it's affordable price tag. Cover to cover, 128 pages of ideas and information. Designed to be useful for both beginners and those interested in exploring some more challenging and varied techniques in the world of fused glass. Page after page of well photographed examples to guide the reader, and beautiful glass artwork to tantilize and inspire.
   
   
   Chapters include basics like materials, tools, supplies, skills like straight and curved glass cutting, and basic information on slumping, draping, fusing, and polishing. The author covers mold preparation, polishing, sandblasting, etching, and drilling.
   
   
   There is a useful troubleshooting guide for the more common things that go wrong with your fused glass work, and suggestions for fixing those when possible.
   
   
   The projects included in the book are varied and visually interesting. They range from simple pate de verre or draping to more complex work like creating and using bars or making various types of melt fusings. All the projects are artistically beautiful, and most of them are also functional.
   
   
   The directions and fusing schedules are clearly outlined and easy to understand.
   
   
   Brenda Griffith is a talented artist who has taken her time, experience, and considerable thought to put out a well written book at an affordable price for both beginners and those who are looking to add to their fusing skills and knowledge.
   
   
   At the retail price of $24.95, it is worth adding to your fusing library.



4. A Beginner's Guide to Kiln-Formed Glass: * Fused * Slumped * CastAwesome book. It is very easy to read and understand. Neat projects to make.



5. Not the fault of the book itself; I guess I am too much of a beginner. But for someone who knows a little bit about the subject it did seem complete. What I need is a book for 'dummies'.
   
   Kathleen cunha

5 comments about Last-Minute Patchwork + Quilted Gifts.

1. I got this book as a Christmas gift from my wish list. I loved the simplicity of the projects and the gorgeous fabrics (maybe that's why the projects are so lovely?), but once I started to try to make my first quilt (Little Bits pg.90)for my toddler boy I've had to read and re-read the directions so many times before cutting! I started about 2 months ago, then stopped because of frustration with the unclear directions. I picked it up again, and guess what, I'm frustrated again! I think diagrams would help so much to make it clearer for cutting, sewing and layout of ALL the pieces, instead of providing a diagram for just one detailed section. For a visual learner, which is what I am, pictures speak more than words in this case. As mentioned by other reviewers on different patterns,it seems that parts of the instructions are incomplete or missing. ie, the putting together of the back pieces of Little Bits quilt. Unless I totally missed it after re-reading it so many times. My eyes started to blur and my brain began to blow steam. So now I'm resorting to putting that part aside and finding help on-line somewhere. Or going to the local fabric store for help, again. Hopefully they won't try to rope me into spending money and signing up for an open quilting class like last time after giving so-so help. I just want clarification on the directions and sew my quilt before my little boy is off to college!



2. I love the pictures but, as other reviewers have mentioned, the instructions are horrid. Instructions were missing or so vague it took forever to figure it out. (I was making the little elephant.) Mind you I have been sewing since 7th grade and I am 52, so I have some experience. I quilt and have made many clothes and other things along the way. I have never seen instructions like this. Please do not buy this book unless you just want to look at the pictures. It was a waste of my time and money and I threw the book away.



3. Others have mentioned the cover of the book was the selling point. I must say that is what sold me on the book. After looking inside, I was a little disappointed. The instructions are the worse. "Cut one 38 inch deep piece." What on earth does that mean? Is that length or width? Don't waste your money. You will read the instructions a million times before you understand what the author wants you to do.



4. This book is without a doubt one of the most inspirational and beautiful crafting books I have come across. At first glance, the photographs and fabric choices are so compelling I almost forgot the book contained actual projects and instructions. With that said, once I sat down with the book and inspected the contents, I found the projects to be sweet not corny, simple not boring, and elegant not plain.
   
   Too many crafting books waste pages in the beginning talking about the basics of needles, thread and other basic techniques. What I love is the brief section on Exploring Color. It is something often missed or overlooked and so important when dealing with any art. The author has an obvious strong grasp of color not using it as a sort of assault on the senses in a careless manner, but rather to enhance the projects and fabric choices letting all aspects of the projects speak for themselves.
   
   I have been crafting for only a couple of years and while this doesn't give me the viewpoint of an experienced artist, I feel I have a fresh perspective. If you're new to the patchwork and quilting world, this book will be what you're looking for when needing some inspiration and manageable projects to tackle. If you're an old-hat at this, maybe it's time to branch out. This book will definitely breath some new life into your sewing and quilting.



5. Great gift ideas, beautiful colors, great photography. My only wish is that the instructions were a little more detailed. As a beginning sewer, it's a little intimidating. I'm sure for others with more experience, it's just the right amount. Good book overall.

5 comments about Fabulous Parties: Food and Flowers for Elegant Entertaining.

1. I took a look at this book and it took me back to the overindulgences of the early eighties.
   
   A few fresh ideas are buried in here among recipes for a baked potato bar(uh....bowls of toppings with a baked potato), a cobb salad bar (you can see where this is heading), a candy bar (yes, assorted candy), a dessert coffee bar, caviar bar, tostada bar, another salad bar, and (yes- one more...) a cupcake bar.
   
   The photos and style have that dated feeling of a Time-Life book series on entertaining.
   
   Just not my style I guess.
   
   This should appeal to the elderly or pretentious set.



2. Its not just that this book is filled with beautiful photos of fantastical floral scenes and delectable foods, but there are many elegant and unique ideas that it helps you to recreate, the full experience of which cannot be fully captured in photos. Additionally, I've been through a lot of recipe books, and there are many exceptional, party-appropriate recipes in this book that I have not seen anywhere else. If you buy only one party book this decade, make it this one!



3. This is the complete book for a dinner party that your guests will never forget. Mark Held has put together not only recipes for a great evening, but has matched the food with incredible decorating and table setting. Thumbs up!



4. I have many books on the subject of entertainment and parties, and this book is simpily fabulous.The photgraphs are simply sumptuous and the recipes absolutely user friendly.
   The pages are with filled wonderful witty recipes and the creations are out of this world.
   I have bought this book as gifts for my friends and all enjoy it tremendously.
   It is a terrific gift for all those who enjoy friends, parties and beautiful things..



5. I enjoyed this book so much I bought several copies as holiday gifts. I'm glad I finally got to see what Mark's Garden is capable of doing with flowers. I love the passion and professionalism they having brought to flower design. The book is amazing and makes me want to entertain. So many great recipes are here too. Tons of great ideas on these pages. Love the black satin ribbon bookmark also. I'll be referring to it for years. Thanks!

5 comments about True Vision: Authentic Art Journaling.

1. If you have ever wanted to keep an art journal, this book is a great resource. If you are already an artist making journals, this will help you kick it up a notch.
   
   L.K. Ludwig's new book is full of interesting prompts and ideas to take you past your fear of the blank page and fill you with excitement, as well as inspiration. The photography is great - the artist journals featured here are exciting and inspiring.
   
   This is not really a beginner's book - "how to prime a page, how to create a background" - it assumes a certain knowledge of techniques and materials. But it has incredible journal pages by featured artists which will have ideas popping into your head and onto your blank pages.
   
   There are plenty of instructions, in addition to the prompts and questions, to help you incorporate feelings and events from your daily life into your jounal. It's an exciting book!



2. I have to say right up front I am one of the artists in this book. But aside from that I am really enjoying this book. There are so many layers to it. You can enjoy it for the eye candy factor alone....or you can look at it as a place to go to inspire you in your own work. I am at the moment looking at certain pages as a challenge. I am going through the book with my journal turned to the "ideas" page and jotting down new ideas I want to try. LK is an amazing artist. I am always blown away by her work. She has a great artist's eye. I think this books is aimed at journalers who are more to the visual journaling side rather than say a scrap booking artist but the cool thing is that there is so much cross over influence now. The lines are blurring and this is good for all artists. Great job LK and thanks for including me.



3. For those that do not know what ART JOURNALING is all about, then this book will certainly help to define the subject.
   
   If you are a beginner or even a mid-level Journal writer (or artist), I think that this book will come in very handy.
   
   L.K.Ludwig gives a wonderful introduction to this special subject, in the first few Introductory pages.
   
   Then, Ludwig follows-up the definition of "Artistic Journaling" by explaining how to use her book. For example, on the right hand side of each page, the author gives "prompts" to stimulate the reader's imagination. Then, inside a highlighted "box", the author gives TIPS on how to expand on each theme.
   
   Also, on the bottom of some of the pages, the author gives more prompts (as fill-in the blanks) to the get the readers' creative juices going.
   
   Along with all these "prompts" and "tips", each page shows these beautifully executed Journal pages by actual artists... All colorful and highly detailed.
   
   Also, Ludwig categorizes the main chapters into the following: relationships, the written word, current events, places, spaces, self-explorations, spirituality, dreams, etc.
   
   Therefore, this book by Ludwig will not only show some inspiring examples of Journal pages created by actual journal writers, but then Ludwig also gives the reader all the pre-requisite starting points in order to get the readers' creative juices going.



4. Maybe it's because my copy is from the second printing, but I didn't find the glaring editing mistakes another reviewer was appalled to find. I noticed a typo or two but that was the extent.
   True Vision packs a hefty punch. It will appeal to a mixed audience. There are basic and innovative prompts (on every other page) geared to those just discovering the world of art journaling, or making a leap from traditional scrapbooking to a deeper and/or more complex style. The written material is excellent. L.K.'s observations are thought-provoking and her instructions detailed, which will please everyone. She's collected a smashing selection of illustrative pages from the diverse journals of 3 dozen artists working in a wide array of media/styles. There are in-depth interviews with Katie Kendrick, Bee Shay, Traci Bunkers, Loretta Marvel, and Julianna Coles, artists who have made their names on the strength of their journal pages alone.
   In addition to specific techniques like inkjet image transfers and blind contour drawing, there are sections on developing personal 'symbols' and journaling on subjects of global impact. L.K. included a Vision Deck, a set of word prompt cards to spark any art journaler's creative fire.



5. True Vision is an excellent resource for journal artists. The open-ended prompts and ideas are geared toward more experienced art journalers. The book is well organized with interviews with some of the artists: thoughtful questions and answers.
   
   A great addition to your library if you love journaling.

5 comments about The Quilters Ultimate Visual Guide: From A to Z-- Hundreds of Tips and Techniques for Successful Quiltmaking.

1. I found this book to concentrate more on applying applique, stencils, and designs of that nature. Which is fine if you enjoy quilting using those techniques. I would of like to of seen more ideas with log cabin, flying geese, and Irish Chain quilts.



2. Great book for the beginner as well as the expert. It shows detailed information with photos so you get an accurate picture of how to do it. Make those precious gift items that will be treasured for years to come. I ordered the book and gave it away. After my friend showed me what she made I had to go out and get one of my own. It gives such detailed photos that it makes the craft easy and fun. I have made numerous things now and given so many as gifts. I have save so much money by making these things myself and in the long run they mean so much more to the people I give them to. They have told me they will keep them in the family for years to come. If you think you don't have the talent -- don't worry. I thought that too about myself. But, with the easy to follow directions the only talent you need is knowing how to read. Plus, you will enjoy every second and get a real sense of accomplishment with the finished product. Great gift item for that stay-at-home loved one who can't get out. Even for the busy person who thinks they don't have time because this book makes the steps simple to follow. Well worth the money.



3. I'm very new to quilting and this was the first book I bought. It has real, "applicable" tips and information that I think even a more experienced quilter could find handy. Everything from what needles to use for hand quilting, how to put on a binding to how to make biscuit quilts. Her instructions are easy to understand and follow as well. I'm using this book constantly as I make my first quilts. I highly recommend it!



4. A friend recommended this book -- it is the Quilting Bible, as far as I am concerned. Concise, descriptive. I don't know how I got along without it!



5. I thought this book was ok. It does have a lot of information about quilting terms. It more of a book to look up things you might not understand when you are doing a project. I bought another book at the same time and it is a good book to have with it.

5 comments about Lotta Jansdotter's Simple Sewing: Patterns and How-To for 24 Fresh and Easy Projects.

1. This is a great book for beginners. I can't wait to get started on some projects.



2. Lotta Jansdotter's Simple Sewing: Patterns and How-To for 24 Fresh and Easy Projects
   
   Gran libro con estupendos diseños. Contiene patrones a tamaño real.



3. I love this book. I've made 2 of the tote bags multiple times and the yoga bag. Everything I make in this book comes out looking very cool. The instructions are well written and easy to follow. Most things don't have patterns and use measurements instead which keeps it simple. Lotta's designs are creative, functional and crafty.



4. My friend Chassity and I got this book to teach ourselves how to sew and absolutely love it! The projects are modern, simple, useful, and well designed. I haven't had any trouble deciphering instructions and I'm loving the finished items. My favorite project so far has been the All Day Tote, I'm on my third one! These projects make great gifts too!



5. I first saw this book at a fabric store I worked at in the area. I was immediately drawn to the originality of it, and the beautiful fabrics she used in the book. It wasn't until later that I saw it on here. It is a great bargain for what it is. It can sit flat on your sewing table or the floor as you work, and the instructions are concise as simple.
   
   This book would be a beautiful addition to any sewing room.

5 comments about Knitting Circles Around Socks: Knit Two at a Time on Circular Needles.

1. I wanted to learn how to knit socks and now I can do two at a time! Highly recommend knitting circles!



2. I decided to order this book to try the knitting two socks at a time method. Wow! What fun! I am about half-way through my second pair. I used the directions and adapted a pattern using double-pointed needles and the first pair fits perfectly! I love that I am able to try on the socks as I knit them - impossible to do with double pointed needles.



3. The how-to photos are so detailed and clear that I was able to just sit down, read along and within half an hour was knitting madly away. It's explained so well and the patterns are terrific!



4. I love knitting socks and wanted to learn a way to create two at a time. When I heard about this book I decided to buy it and try it. After a few false starts I have finally grasped the concept and I actually like it. It just takes a little brain power and not being too distracted when you knit in this style. Not for the faint of heart knitter but for those who like a challenge I think you might find it interesting. Nothing hurts a failure but a try.



5. The book has clear, easy directions that I was able to follow the first attempt, except for some confusion as I entered the gusset stitches for the heel. I ended up with the yarn access on the opposite side of the socks and had to retry. This was remedied after two tries and I honestly don't know if my misreading or the book caused the problem. I will use this method, I love it, for two reasons. First, it assures both socks will be exactly the same size. Secondly, I love to knit socks while traveling, but have a tendency to drop the loose needle, which leads to awkward times in an airplane or car as I try to find the needle on the floor. This technique will save that embarrassment--THANK YOU