On a recent trip to the library I picked up Sewing Basics: All You Need to Know About Machine and Hand Sewing by Sandra Bardwell. I’ve taken several sewing classes and own many sewing books but I’m always on the lookout for other resources. Different books and different instructors all have different ways of explaining sewing techniques and what works for some people may not work for others.

This book has 15 chapters, or sections, that cover these topics:

• Getting organized
• Tools of the trade
• Sewing machines
• Fabrics and interfacings
• Understanding patterns
• Cutting out, tacking, and basting
• Basic hand and machine stitches
• Sewing and finishing seams
• Creating shape and fitting
• Linings, facings, and hems
• Design details
• Fastenings
• Trims and surface decoration
• Embroidery
• Alterations and repairs

There are nice, full color photographs as well as charts and tables to illustrate the different points in each section. It is a nice mix of both written and visual instructions, particularly in the section about understanding patterns. Although there are many nice beginner sewing patterns on the market, there are not always clear explanations of what all the symbols mean and how to make changes if necessary.

I was very pleased with this book. I like how the different topics were broken up and the graphics were great to illustrate different points and techniques. Even though I have some experience sewing I have added this book to my wishlist. There are some techniques that are explained in this book much better than I have found in other books. I recommend this book for anyone who is interested in beginning to sew or experienced sewers who would like to add another resource to their library.

This book is available online and likely at brick-and-mortar bookstores. I’m glad they had it at my local library so that I could look at it carefully before deciding to purchase it.

**No compensation was received for this post. I am in no way connected to the book author or publisher. I checked this book out from the local library, all opinions and thoughts are my own.**

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What do you consider to be must have books for your craft(s)? Please let us know in the comments, maybe you’ll help someone find a new resource.