Japanese Sewing Books
I receive quite a few emails from publishers asking me to review books. I don’t review very many, honestly I think it’s because sometimes I just get a little bit overwhelmed with my blogging “to do” list and have a hard time committing to another post. Also some of the books are fantastic, but not a good fit for my blog or my readers.
When Tuttle emailed me about reviewing 2 Japanese sewing books (already translated into English) I was intrigued. I’ve always been such a big fan of Japanese sewing patterns and fabrics. I’ve even spent my fair share of time trying to translate (using google translate) a few sewing tutorials online.. never with much success.
As you might have seen I’ve been on a bit of an apparel sewing kick lately, both for myself and for my girls. I was excited to see some fun new patterns to try.
I was immediately drawn to the Dress with Square Neckline from the Sew Chic Kids book. It looks so simple and effortless… like the perfect summer sundress. I pulled out some of my gingham shirting fabrics and decided this would be one of my next projects.
I also love the roll-up shorts- they are shown here for a boy, but in my head I’d love to make them out of a great bright seersucker for my daughter for summer. The cut on them looks spot on and I like that they are a bit longer with the roll cuff detail- I think it makes them look a little bit dressier.
The Sew Chic book (which has patterns for women) has some absolutely beautifully constructed clothing items. Such amazing lines and proportions. Really fresh and clean. I “think” I might attempt to make this Jacket with Back Tie- I’m still “dipping my toes” into sewing for myself but this looks totally “do able” – I can see it layered over a t-shirt and boyfriend crops for a fun casual summer outfit.
Both books come with a pattern packet, full instructions and instructional illustrations. The instructions are easy to follow, and the authors even give a few sewing tips and tricks too. Most of the patterns in the children’s edition go up to a size 8.
Tuttle has sent me a few extra copies to give away. Just use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter. You’ve got until next Wed. the 28th.
You can find both of the books (along with a few more by the same publishing house) on Amazon:
a Rafflecopter giveaway
I love these books ! I’ve checked them out from my local library but have yet to make something from them. 🙂 Thanks for the nudge … time for some summer sewing.
I’ve been wanting to try these as well…fingers crossed
What’s not on my list would be easier to answer 🙂
Purses, hats for the kids, divided baskets, dresses for my daughter, and shirts for me….my son is due for shorts and hopefully a button down!
I’ve also got a couple news things going for a shop downtown that I can’t wait to get started on…:)
I have 2 little grand daughters I sew for and the children’s book would be fantastic!
I’d love to try these!
I need to sew quilts for my boys this summer!
I’m going to work on some easy skirts for myself and my daughter. The tiered skirt above looks nice!
I am planning on some more kids clothes
I’ve eyed this type of seeing books, would be a fun new adventure to try!
I want to make some summer tops for myself, a bench cushion and three throw pillows for for a reading nook.
My Summer sewing list is rather out of hand, with plans for many, many garments, including a couple of tops from Drape, Drape. I love Japanese sewing books and that jacket looks really sweet.
A twin size quilt for my 5 yo daughter
Looks like there are some cute kids projects I would like to try. And some other simple quick things to discover. Cindy
I’d really like to sew a diaper bag this summer!
I’m intrigued by these styles. Beautiful simplicity.
Sew chic is on my wish list though I’d love to make my girls some dresses this summer!
You may not review many books, but I don’t enter many blog giveaways. Seems this one is worth it to both of us! 🙂
I’m using this type of book and it’s really interesting