Stitch Magic: A Compendium of Sewing Techniques for Sculpting Fabric into Exciting New Forms and Fashions

by Alison J. Reid

In Stitch Magic , fashion and textile expert Alison Reid teaches sewers how to manipulate and sculpt fabric by using such techniques as folding, cutting, pleating, tucking, gathering, and stitching, creating entirely new surfaces and textures in the process. The resulting fabrics, which look sophisticated and complex but are actually relatively simple and inexpensive to produce, can be used for entire textiles, such as cushions or blinds, or to create fashion accessories or embellishments.

Stitch Magic serves as both a technical reference guide, which the sewer can consult time and again, as well as an inspiring project book. Among the beautiful, modern projects included are curtains and cushions, a throw, shawl, cape, necklace, and bag. Detailed illustrations throughout make all of the instructions easy to follow.

Genres: Sewing, Crafts, Nonfiction, Fashion

144 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2011

Reviews

[Jessica · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not really clear as a how-to, but good for getting ideas and inspiration.

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you like the Pattern Magic type books but are intimidated by them, Stitch Magic is a great place to start. You can easily create the decorations and textures in this book as long as you can see in a straight line and cut a circle. They lean towards elegant instead of cutesy, but you could switch the fabrics out to suit your own taste.

Haven't tried any of the projects, but instructions look easy to follow.

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm glad I read it but nothing in here is really my style or what I was looking for. Ah well.

[Brooke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Find this book inspiring. I discovered presser foots I didn't even know I had and hope to utilise a few of the techniques in some quilting and curtain projects in the coming months.

[Melody Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was extremely helpful & straight forward. The techniques shown in the book are pretty easy but create great ideas for furniture & clothing. I definitely want to purchase this!