Customer Reviews

Sew Serendipity: Fresh and Pretty Designs to Make and Wear

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I am SO impressed by this book! I can't put it down,I take it with me every where in case I get a minute to read. I am thrilled with the literary content as well as the patterns. The patterns are full size tissue in a pocket in the back, well laid out on a sheet for each category, not heaped line over line like a crazy maze as I have had in other books! The pieces for the skirt for example are the same for each skirt design in the book so they can be reused (think "save a tree" here!)and the instructions for making the skirts look unique to each design are well laid out with suggestions on how to make it your own! ie: adding trim or interchangeable elements between the patterns like pockets and hemline design or cuffs and collars in the jackets. There isn't a pattern in the book that I would not make either for me or my sister (mostly for me! Shhh!). Well worth the price. I love Kay Whitt's designs and unknowingly had several of her patterns before I bought this book. I looked it up after I realized the similarities! None of the patterns in the book are a duplicate of what I already owned and I didn't see anything in the book that she sells seperately in pattern form.

I am fairly new to sewing. I know the basics, but my "skills" are limited. Even so, I have managed to finish two projects from this book and both turned into very wearable items!

I made the skirt featured on the front of the book, which turned out really sweet, with a gorgeous bundle of Amy Butler fabrics I got through Etsy. The pattern was easy to follow and didn't require any complicated skill set. Just a little patience!

The second project I made was a little dress tunic. It also turned out nicely, however, I am not super fond of the way the sleeves are formed. I hate poofy! So I think I am going to stick with the skirts until I figure out how to make the sleeve differently.

Both projects had ruffles on them. In fact, all the project have ruffles. Creating the ruffles, in my opinion, was what I consider to be the most difficult part. The author actually recommends having a ruffling attachment for your machine. I, regrettably, do not have one. But heck, maybe it wouldn't be a bad idea to get one!

There are some great simple projects for any sewing ability. Lots of patterns to choose from and lots of ways to make it your own. I am planning a whole new wardrobe for me. My teenage girls have picked out some projects as well. I am looking forward to sewing with them this summer.

I think I am going to get alot of use from this book. It has great pictures and detailed sewing instructions, my mind is spinning with fabric choices and I don't know what to sew first.