5 Responses to “Martha Stewart’s Encyclopedia of Sewing and Fabric Crafts: Basic Techniques for Sewing, Applique, Embroidery, Quilting, Dyeing, and Printing, plus 150 Inspired Projects from A to Z”

• By Orianna on Mar 20, 2010

  As a dressmaker, I was excited to get the chance to review this book, but it fell flat of my expectations. Like the title says, the book is very basic, intended for those who have little experience with sewing. Essentially, it’s a primer for sewing and related hobbies, such as embroidery, applique, and quilting. It does include a few useful techniques that you won’t find in most remedial sewing books, such as instructions for dyeing fabric. There are quite a few projects that you can make, such as Roman shades, stuffed dolls, baby clothes, pincushions, etc. So, on that front it’s a decent book. However. . . .

  I realize that I was given an advance copy, but I have no way of knowing which elements are temporary and which will actually be included in the publication of this book. If these things are fixed before the book is released, then I will certainly revise my opinion! First off, it says there is a CD attached with patterns for the many projects, but my copy didn’t include the CD. Hence, the majority of the book is useless to me. Second, all of the illustrations are black & white, which in and of itself would be okay, except that the photos are of extremely poor quality. They look like cheap photocopies: grainy and out of focus. If the illustrations are cleaned up, and the CD included, then I would say that this would be a fair book for someone unfamiliar with sewing or crafting. If you have any experience whatsoever, you might find some of the projects interesting, but overall you’ll find the book too remedial.

  As an alternative, I would suggest the Reader’s Digest guides to sewing and needlepoint. They are simple, easy to understand, they have excellent illustrations in full color, and they include many projects for both beginners and more advanced sewers.
  Rating: 3 / 5
• By Reecia Thompson Stoglin on Mar 20, 2010

  This book is mini a Home Economics class. Very useful and practical information not to mention fun stuff as well.
  Rating: 5 / 5
• By NaughtiLiterati on Mar 20, 2010

  Martha does it again with this monster of craft and perfection! Perfect for these snowy days and you are going to have months of fun creating beautiful things to wear, give to loved ones, or enjoy in your home.
  Rating: 5 / 5
• By Cynthia E. Downes on Mar 20, 2010

  This is just what it says it is: an encyclopedia of sewing and fabric crafts, and it’s the perfect gift for a new homeowner, newlyweds, teenagers, or your best friend.

  Included in the book is a CD with patterns and templates for 150 projects, including aprons, bags, bath accessories, bed linens, book covers, clothing, coasters, curtains, decorative pillows, dolls, flowers, nursery items, organizers, quilts, shades, slippers, table linens, upholstery, wall décor, and even projects for your favorite pet! The patterns are in pdf format and print on 8-1/2 x 11 paper. For large projects, you will tape the pages together to create the full size project. Numbers printed on each page make it easy to match the pages.

  The book provides basic techniques for sewing, appliqué, embroidery, quilting, dyeing, and printing. For instance, there are several pages containing photos and instructions just for embroidery stitches. Looking through the book alone will spark ideas for your home, office or gift giving. It might even inspire you to try something new – like creating your own purse or pet toys!

  The only thing I thought was missing was the mention of a serger. A serger takes your sewing and craft creation to a whole new level. I think it should have at least mentioned what a serger is and what it can do. But, other than that, this is an excellent resource. Definitely 5 stars! You’ll want to keep it nearby for ideas and instruction.
  Rating: 5 / 5
• By M. E. Johansen on Mar 20, 2010

  I have to admit to being a real admirer of almost all things Martha Stewart-ish. I am no champion house-keeper nor am I a crafting wizard but I do always enjoy the Martha Stewart Magazine and website. In this age of wonderful craft & sewing books -I think that any book that would dare to call istself a ‘crafting encyclopedia’ would have to be pretty darn sure of itself and this encyclopedia does not disappoint. As always with Martha Stewart products, the instructions are well written & beautifully illustrated. You can find information and “how-to’s” about a wonderful, very wide, variety of crafts. General sewing, specialty sewing, embroidery of all kinds,quilting ,applique, printing, dyeing, and many, many other types of craft projects are included in this very well done book. In addition to the book a CD included that contains many templates and patterns that can be printed out . ALso included is an extensive reference guide for all kinds of great sewing and crafting suppliers, equipment and fun things.

  This book is, I believe, an excellent addition for any sewer, crafter or “Martha wannabe”. Well done, clear, colorful and highly informative!
  Rating: 5 / 5

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