Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #16823 in Books
• Published on: 2007-06-19
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 144 pages

Customer Reviews

Nice but not a Must Have
I lurve Amy's blog and I really liked the book however I felt that if it is aimed at beginners then they might get a bit stumped with the lack of detail in some projects or having to improvise steps like the measurement of straps. I don't regret buying this book and I would even gift it to others however it is not the Must Have book I thought it would be and I think her version of bending the rules is light, sorry Amy I must be one who just breaks them. Lovely book with nice pictures and a pleasure to read.

Secrets & Shortcuts for sewing projects
As a nervous novice, in the sewing department, I fell onto this book and loved it immediately. As you work through the book, project by project, it builds on sewing techniques, so that you learn as you go - well I certainly have. Photographs or diagrams show you what the text is telling you, so that each item turns out perfectly, even when you are warned that it may not the first time. This book turns the mystery of sewing on its head and shows the secrets and shortcuts for sewing projects (and no, I don't know the author, but I'll look out any of her other titles!)

Great for gaining confidence in using your sewing machine
I have really enjoyed first browsing, (gorgeous pictures) then actually using this book, to make functional, simple but stylish items. I would describe my skill level in sewing as beginner improver, on a good day intermediate! Stuff like setting a zip, lining and interfacing simple bag shapes, making a machine buttonhole, a little hand embroidery. The first project I attempted was the embellished zip-up pouch which I am now proudly using as make-up bag. I have just completed the simple tote and have now moved on to the child's shift top. This last one requires photocopying and enlarging the pattern included in the book. Amy's instructions are clear, her "Basics" section where she describes common techniques, is pretty comprehensive. Her tone is very "can do" and encouraging. Check out the Bend The Rules Sewing Group on flickr.com where there are hundreds of photos of completed projects from this lovely book. As for the rule bending of the title, what Amy Karol seems to mean by this is "sew instinctively." For example, don't automatically tack or pin if you feel you don't need to. Overall, an accessible and inspirational book with projects you'll want to make.