Book Review - Reader's Digest Complete Guide to Sewing

During my teaching years I have been asked for all sorts of advice about pretty much every kind of sewing related problem, but the most common question I am asked by learners is

"Which book do I recommend"

My answers is instant and always the same

THE READER'S DIGEST COMPLETE GUIDE TO SEWING.

I first had a copy of this book over 30 years ago when I was making anything and everything I could quite badly and in need some help to improve the finish of what I was making.

Although this book has been update, very little has changed since the original. The book content is wide ranging, split into sections that are thorough and comprehensive. All sections are set out methodically, with the clear illustrations and images, although in some sections the text is on the small side, (don’t forget your glasses).

Topics include:

· Machinery and Equipment; Good section if you aren’t sure what some items are and their use.

· Fabrics: An excellent source of reference, especially if you find it hard to decide which fabric to purchase for your sewing project or dressmaking item.

· Taking Measurements; A good combinations of visuals and written instructions.

· Adapting Paper Patters; Something that is invariably necessary when making clothes from a commercial patter. Diagrams are clear and easy to follow.

· Step by Step Techniques; By far the largest section of the book which is broken down into categories. All have very clear diagrams and written instructions that doesn’t assume you know too much, covering processes that will arm you with enough choice for the majority of things you want to make. (hand stitching ,seams, hems, necklines, waistbands, collars, pockets, zips and more.)

· Tailoring: A very good introduction to advanced sewing, again with clear diagrams and written instructions. Probably not enough content to turn you into a master tailor, but plenty to help you through your first jacket.

The original and some earlier editions have a section that covers sewing for the home which isn’t in the up to date version, which is a shame.

There are 20 projects throughout the book for you to make, and although there are step by step guides for each of them, the current issue doesn’t include patterns that can be up-scaled to full size, whereas the original book does. Personally I think they are a little dated anyway so no real loss there.

As you can see there is a lot of content in this book and is quite hefty, making it excellent value for money. I have seen this available on Amazon for under £7 for a used copy. Mind you some of the first edition copies are selling for over £100 which is upsetting since I misplaced my original a few years back. (have picked up another since).