Sewing Made Simple by Tessa Evelegh
“Sewing Made Simple. From Sewing Box to Sewing Machine: Fashion and Furnishings Techniques Explained” by Tessa Evelegh (2012) is an excellent introduction to sewing. I am loving this book and, if you are a sewer, this is a good one to have on your bookshelf. If you are a beginner sewer I think this could be your constant sewing companion! With easy-to-follow instructions, super clear illustrations and sections on everything you’ll need to know to start sewing, this book will be one you refer to over and over again.
However, I will not promote something I do not personally use or endorse and to create my learn-to-sew series on this blog, I have referred to dozens of books to make sure that I have my facts straight for you and this is the one I keep going back to. Here’s why…
Excellent Introductory Information
The first sections of the book provide a solid foundation of knowledge in sewing. Evelegh goes over the equipment you will need and runs through the different ‘notions’ you will come across – all the bits and bobs you will need in your sewing. Plus she has an extensive section on fabric and fabric types. She explains the basics of sewing machines and their accessories. She shows you essential stitches – right from how to tie the knot in your hand sewing thread. And she has an excellent section on using paper patterns including how to take measurements for proper garment fitting.
All the Basics are Covered
The basic skills are sewing are covered comprehensively including an Order of Work list to help you understand how to progress your project. Evelegh steps you through the right way to create different types of seams and how to press your project. She shows you how to create darts, pleats and gathering, how to insert fastenings and apply trimmings. And finishes, appropriately, with the different ways to finish off your project such as different hemming techniques. She also has a section on quilting.
Progressive Skill Building
She does all this with a sensible and clear progression through the sections roughly following the Order of Work outlined at the beginning of the Basic Sewing Skills section. This allows you to build your skills in a logical way. However, it is also very easy to dip into the book wherever you need to get help with whatever you are working on at the time.
Gorgeous Projects
All the skills can be practiced with the gorgeous projects dotted throughout the book. If you were to follow them in order, the projects would make an ideal sewing course for a beginner. They are challenging but attainable and aim to build skills. The projects start with a stylish Swedish blind using straight seams and a sweet but simple tote bag and build up to colourful tablemats and a gorgeous baby’s quilt in which you will practice your seams, binding, mitred corners and pleating.
Excellent Diagrams and Illustrations
The text is complemented with excellent diagrams and illustrations. The step-by-step instructions are accompanied by very clear illustrations and beautiful photography. The whole book is a visual treat!
Missing a Glossary of Sewing Terms
The one thing I feel is missing from this book is a good glossary of sewing terms. However, I have created one for you on the blog so never fear!
There appears to be a British and an American publication of the book. The cover image shown here is the British version with metric measurements first – but inches are still given in brackets. Find it on Scribd.
Do you have a sewing book (or sewing bible as I suggested in my Finding Your Sewing Zen post?) that you refer to time and time again? Which one(s) do you use? I’d love to build a good list of them so please leave your thoughts in the comments below.
