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Stitch It Simple: 25 hand-sewn projects to make and share
One-to-watch in the fashion and textile industry. Author Beth Sheard is a young, up-and-coming textile designer, who is quickly establishing herself as a designer-to-watch among the fashion and textile industry's elite. Now you can create her designs, featured in Stitch It 25 Hand Sewn Projects to Make and Share . Featuring Kaffe Fassett's world-famous fabrics. The sweet projects in Stitch It Simple are fun and surprisingly simple to make. They feature the playful, vibrant, and bold fabrics of renowned quilter and textile designer, Kaffe Fassett. Instant gratification! These 25 stylish projects are aimed at novice stitchers and crafters, who find the gorgeous range of quilting fabrics inspiring, but are looking for easier, smaller scale projects. Best of all, they make up fast and beautifully. Simply explained with no-fuss sewing instructions, these are projects you'll really enjoy making, Absolutely achievable and quick-to-stitch projects. Stitch It Simple is perfect for beginning sewers with little to no experience in hand-stitching or using a sewing machine. Clear instructions with colorful step-by-step illustrations and vivid photographs are featured throughout the book. Discover the joy of quilting and see how you can create your own little works of art!
- GenresNonfictionCraftsSewing
128 pages, Paperback
First published October 14, 2014
2 people are currently reading
13 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
October 14, 2014
Range of projects from the very small, cards or a butterfly mobile, to the fairly large, like a mini-quilt or table runner. Many of them might only take an hour or two to complete, or can be done in stages, so if you just want to dip your toe in the water it's a great place to start.
It's targeted at a stitching novice, so it's nice to see that it begins with a list of basic supplies and stitch explanations, rather than pushing them to an appendix in the back. It also includes the options of machine- or hand-stitching wherever possible, and as none of the projects are complex (as it says) there's some quick gratification for the impatient as well as the unskilled.
The tips included were useful for a beginner and also serve as a reminder for those whose skills are a little rusty, while the range of projects is inspirational in itself. Decorating lampshades, making cushions or padded letters or bunting. The fabric choices are bold, a bit too patterned for my tastes, but work well in these projects.
I was a little disappointed that some projects actually meant "decorate" rather than "make". Neither an apron or a tote bag are hard to make, and including the instructions for making them would have opened up more opportunities, while allowing the more nervous or those with time-constraints the chance to start with a purchased one.
Many of these projects drew my eye. The patchwork chair pad and Nordic tree hanging look like fun, while the wall tidy and stuffed cats have definite gift potential. The stuffed letters, bunting, mini-quilt, hanging elephants or butterflies could also be great baby gifts!
Disclaimer: I received a free ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
It's targeted at a stitching novice, so it's nice to see that it begins with a list of basic supplies and stitch explanations, rather than pushing them to an appendix in the back. It also includes the options of machine- or hand-stitching wherever possible, and as none of the projects are complex (as it says) there's some quick gratification for the impatient as well as the unskilled.
The tips included were useful for a beginner and also serve as a reminder for those whose skills are a little rusty, while the range of projects is inspirational in itself. Decorating lampshades, making cushions or padded letters or bunting. The fabric choices are bold, a bit too patterned for my tastes, but work well in these projects.
I was a little disappointed that some projects actually meant "decorate" rather than "make". Neither an apron or a tote bag are hard to make, and including the instructions for making them would have opened up more opportunities, while allowing the more nervous or those with time-constraints the chance to start with a purchased one.
Many of these projects drew my eye. The patchwork chair pad and Nordic tree hanging look like fun, while the wall tidy and stuffed cats have definite gift potential. The stuffed letters, bunting, mini-quilt, hanging elephants or butterflies could also be great baby gifts!
Disclaimer: I received a free ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 2, 2015
Stitch it simple is one of those rare books where I like every single pattern. I mean really, how can you not love a stuffed cat door stop, or felt slippers, or adorable elephants hanging down? The patterns range from small décor (stuffed butterfly, an Owl card) to large, (purses, window panels, cushions)
One thing I really like is a lot of the patterns have little “alternate patterns,” with a variation on the pattern. For instance the bird table-runner has a variation to make it into a placemat. The Owl card has an alternate Owl Tote bag you can make.
All the photographs are beautiful, and it has detailed drawings and diagrams on the techniques. This book would be awesome for people who want one book and lots of projects that will get them started sewing for the home.
One thing I really like is a lot of the patterns have little “alternate patterns,” with a variation on the pattern. For instance the bird table-runner has a variation to make it into a placemat. The Owl card has an alternate Owl Tote bag you can make.
All the photographs are beautiful, and it has detailed drawings and diagrams on the techniques. This book would be awesome for people who want one book and lots of projects that will get them started sewing for the home.
August 20, 2017
Title: Stitch It Simple - 25 Hand Sewn Projects to Make and Share
Author: Beth Sheard
Publisher: Taunton Press
Published: 10-14-2014
Pages: 128
Genre: Crafts & Hobbies
Sub-Genre: ,Decorating Needlecrafts, Textile Crafts, Sewing. Hobbies & Home, Nonfiction
ISBN: 9781627107594
Reviewed For NetGalley and Taunton Press
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4.75 Stars
There may be only twenty-five patterns, but with a change of fabric, Appliqué or color scheme they can be easily individualized for the recipient or personalized for your own home décor. The possibilities are nearly endless. The projects are simple enough that even young beginners can enjoy creating items for themselves or to give as gifts. An excellent sources of fun and beauty to use again and again. I loved the Owl and the Pussy Cat Wall Hanging, I made it for niece for all those little pins powders and such in he baby's nursery and I made so many stuffed cats for my nieces and nephews I could practically do them in my sleeps. Each was different and loved by the recipients.
My rating of "Stitch It Simple - 25 Hand Sewn Projects to Make and Share" is 4.75 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1627107592/...
B&N Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/stit...
Books-A-Million Link: http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Stitch...
Google Play Link: Not Available
Indigo Link: https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/...
GoodReads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Kobo Link: Not Available
The Reading Room Link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Twitter Link: https://twitter.com/DelAnne531/status...
Author: Beth Sheard
Publisher: Taunton Press
Published: 10-14-2014
Pages: 128
Genre: Crafts & Hobbies
Sub-Genre: ,Decorating Needlecrafts, Textile Crafts, Sewing. Hobbies & Home, Nonfiction
ISBN: 9781627107594
Reviewed For NetGalley and Taunton Press
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4.75 Stars
There may be only twenty-five patterns, but with a change of fabric, Appliqué or color scheme they can be easily individualized for the recipient or personalized for your own home décor. The possibilities are nearly endless. The projects are simple enough that even young beginners can enjoy creating items for themselves or to give as gifts. An excellent sources of fun and beauty to use again and again. I loved the Owl and the Pussy Cat Wall Hanging, I made it for niece for all those little pins powders and such in he baby's nursery and I made so many stuffed cats for my nieces and nephews I could practically do them in my sleeps. Each was different and loved by the recipients.
My rating of "Stitch It Simple - 25 Hand Sewn Projects to Make and Share" is 4.75 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1627107592/...
B&N Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/stit...
Books-A-Million Link: http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Stitch...
Google Play Link: Not Available
Indigo Link: https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/...
GoodReads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Kobo Link: Not Available
The Reading Room Link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Twitter Link: https://twitter.com/DelAnne531/status...
July 14, 2014
My copy was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
Full review of projects when I've made a few!
Author: Beth Sheard
Photography: Steven Wooster
First Published: 2014
Difficulty: Beginner. Simple hand stitching and basic machine skills.
Foreword: Kaffe Fassett
Concentrating on Kaffe Fassett prints, Sheard gives 25 simple stitching projects for homewares and gifts. Many rely on the chosen print for interest and to explore colour but most can be accomplished well with your own scraps or short lengths. No project should take more than a couple of hours.
Note: My e-galley did not contain templates, resources, or index. Where directed to use that not provided I made my best guess and designed my own.
My initial thoughts are that this is a nice book for a beginner stitcher looking for ideas. The projects would be achievable by the youngest stitcher (eg variations on the letters could be accomplished by my 8yo) with more complexity for the interested teen (bunting, owl card) and gift ideas or home decor for the adult (quilt, lampshade). It would certainly be easy and interesting to vary the projects with different motifs and fabric.
It's a good book to add to a collection, or gift to a friend with a few fat quarters.
Contents:
- Stitch Basics - Basic stitches like back- and slip-stitch, and decorative stitches including satin stitch, cross stitch, blanket stitch and french knots. Basic applique techniques. Methods to finish projects (envelope back for cushions, binding edges, threading hanging shapes).
- Round Tree Lampshade - Using a lampshade kit or decorating an existing lamshade by applique'ing a basic tree motif. The fabric choices direct the interest in the project.
- Fabric Letters - Hand stitched using blanket stitch with decorative fabric one side and felt on the back.
- "Alphabet" Bunting - Letters one side, decorative fabric on the reverse to make the bunting useable year round.
- Balloon Cushion - Choose vibrant, fair-ground colours for this hand applique'd project. Cushion is finished with a simple envelope back.
- Butterfly Mobile - Fuse together two squares of coloured fabric and cut from them the butterflies. They aren't even sewn together, but would look very effective against a window.
- Tree Pillows - A stylized tree motif that works heavily with the patterned fabric - stripes for trunks, spots for leaves.
- Letters and Numbers Mini Quilt - The project as specified uses very bright, contrasting fabrics to create a simple but effective quilt. End result: 30x39inches. Pattern could be easily enlarged. Numbers and letters are machine applique'd.
- Tree Tote Bag - Another stylized tree, this time machine stitched to a pre-made cotton tote bag. "Instant embellishment" by cutting around shapes from the patterned fabric.
- Cupcake Apron - Hand embroidery and a very simple applique'd cupcake are used to decorate a pre-made cotton apron.
- Peacock Table Runner - Colourful peacocks are machine stitched to a length of fabric to create a variable length table runner. Runner is backed with co-ordinating fabric but not quilted. Suggested variation - placemat.
- Stylized Tree Cushion - "Retro version" of the (frequently used) stylized tree motif. Again, using colour in a simple but effective manner.
- Fish on a Line - The project as specified fills felt and fabric 3D fish with dried lavender for the bathroom or bedroom. Sheard suggests filling them with batting for a hanging or a little catnip for a pet toy. Running stitch is used to decorate felt fins and tail.
- Hanging Elephants - Made from felt with stitched eyes and wool for tails, the elephants are entirely hand-stitched using blanket stitch.
- Sardine Blind - More fish. Directions are included for measuring size of fabric required to suit your window.
- House Doorstop - Easy but effective project using colour and applique to jazz-up a store-bought square, fabric doorstop.
- Beady Owl Card - Simple embroidered and applique owl stuck on card-stock. Nothing overly special but it looks nice.
- Circles Cushion - Using bright scraps from the scrap-bag, hand-stitched circles in circles add colour to a cushion.
- Embroidered Slippers - In my Regency Historical Romances, the heroines are always embroidering slippers. Here's my chance to make my own! Bought insoles are covered/glued to thick felt feet pieces to make the soles while uppers are cut from the felt using templates provided. Uppers are decorated with embroidery and applique letters and attached using blanket stitch.
- Flower Garland - Leftover fabric scraps are combined to make no-sew flowers, linked a length of finger knitted yarn (instructions provided).
- Bird Tote Bag - Decorating a bought coloured tote bag with stylized birds, focussing on bright - fabric choices. Could also be used to make a needlecase (instructions provided).
- Kit and Kat Stuffed Cats - Simple 3D fabric and felt cats. Approximated 10 inches high. Wold make a sweet baby or toddler gift (chewable ears!).
- The Owl and Pussy Cat Wall Tidy - Backed with felt for added strength, a basic pocketed wall tidy with coloured applique cat and owl as seen in other projects.
- Personalised Gift Bag - A simple bag of 22cm square made with 1/2 metre of patterned fabric and lined with a solid cotton. Felt letters are used for decoration.
- Patchwork Chair Pad - Using the fabric for interest, the chair pad is approx 30x35cm and is strip-quilted using 6.5cm squares and 6.5x19cm rectangles. Back is left plain.
- Christmas Tree Hanging - Lightly stuffed Christmas trees made from red patterned fabric and green felt. Running stitch is used to add interest. Alternative project - placemat.
(ISBN 978-1-62710-759-0)
-CR-
Full review of projects when I've made a few!
Author: Beth Sheard
Photography: Steven Wooster
First Published: 2014
Difficulty: Beginner. Simple hand stitching and basic machine skills.
Foreword: Kaffe Fassett
Concentrating on Kaffe Fassett prints, Sheard gives 25 simple stitching projects for homewares and gifts. Many rely on the chosen print for interest and to explore colour but most can be accomplished well with your own scraps or short lengths. No project should take more than a couple of hours.
Note: My e-galley did not contain templates, resources, or index. Where directed to use that not provided I made my best guess and designed my own.
My initial thoughts are that this is a nice book for a beginner stitcher looking for ideas. The projects would be achievable by the youngest stitcher (eg variations on the letters could be accomplished by my 8yo) with more complexity for the interested teen (bunting, owl card) and gift ideas or home decor for the adult (quilt, lampshade). It would certainly be easy and interesting to vary the projects with different motifs and fabric.
It's a good book to add to a collection, or gift to a friend with a few fat quarters.
Contents:
- Stitch Basics - Basic stitches like back- and slip-stitch, and decorative stitches including satin stitch, cross stitch, blanket stitch and french knots. Basic applique techniques. Methods to finish projects (envelope back for cushions, binding edges, threading hanging shapes).
- Round Tree Lampshade - Using a lampshade kit or decorating an existing lamshade by applique'ing a basic tree motif. The fabric choices direct the interest in the project.
- Fabric Letters - Hand stitched using blanket stitch with decorative fabric one side and felt on the back.
- "Alphabet" Bunting - Letters one side, decorative fabric on the reverse to make the bunting useable year round.
- Balloon Cushion - Choose vibrant, fair-ground colours for this hand applique'd project. Cushion is finished with a simple envelope back.
- Butterfly Mobile - Fuse together two squares of coloured fabric and cut from them the butterflies. They aren't even sewn together, but would look very effective against a window.
- Tree Pillows - A stylized tree motif that works heavily with the patterned fabric - stripes for trunks, spots for leaves.
- Letters and Numbers Mini Quilt - The project as specified uses very bright, contrasting fabrics to create a simple but effective quilt. End result: 30x39inches. Pattern could be easily enlarged. Numbers and letters are machine applique'd.
- Tree Tote Bag - Another stylized tree, this time machine stitched to a pre-made cotton tote bag. "Instant embellishment" by cutting around shapes from the patterned fabric.
- Cupcake Apron - Hand embroidery and a very simple applique'd cupcake are used to decorate a pre-made cotton apron.
- Peacock Table Runner - Colourful peacocks are machine stitched to a length of fabric to create a variable length table runner. Runner is backed with co-ordinating fabric but not quilted. Suggested variation - placemat.
- Stylized Tree Cushion - "Retro version" of the (frequently used) stylized tree motif. Again, using colour in a simple but effective manner.
- Fish on a Line - The project as specified fills felt and fabric 3D fish with dried lavender for the bathroom or bedroom. Sheard suggests filling them with batting for a hanging or a little catnip for a pet toy. Running stitch is used to decorate felt fins and tail.
- Hanging Elephants - Made from felt with stitched eyes and wool for tails, the elephants are entirely hand-stitched using blanket stitch.
- Sardine Blind - More fish. Directions are included for measuring size of fabric required to suit your window.
- House Doorstop - Easy but effective project using colour and applique to jazz-up a store-bought square, fabric doorstop.
- Beady Owl Card - Simple embroidered and applique owl stuck on card-stock. Nothing overly special but it looks nice.
- Circles Cushion - Using bright scraps from the scrap-bag, hand-stitched circles in circles add colour to a cushion.
- Embroidered Slippers - In my Regency Historical Romances, the heroines are always embroidering slippers. Here's my chance to make my own! Bought insoles are covered/glued to thick felt feet pieces to make the soles while uppers are cut from the felt using templates provided. Uppers are decorated with embroidery and applique letters and attached using blanket stitch.
- Flower Garland - Leftover fabric scraps are combined to make no-sew flowers, linked a length of finger knitted yarn (instructions provided).
- Bird Tote Bag - Decorating a bought coloured tote bag with stylized birds, focussing on bright - fabric choices. Could also be used to make a needlecase (instructions provided).
- Kit and Kat Stuffed Cats - Simple 3D fabric and felt cats. Approximated 10 inches high. Wold make a sweet baby or toddler gift (chewable ears!).
- The Owl and Pussy Cat Wall Tidy - Backed with felt for added strength, a basic pocketed wall tidy with coloured applique cat and owl as seen in other projects.
- Personalised Gift Bag - A simple bag of 22cm square made with 1/2 metre of patterned fabric and lined with a solid cotton. Felt letters are used for decoration.
- Patchwork Chair Pad - Using the fabric for interest, the chair pad is approx 30x35cm and is strip-quilted using 6.5cm squares and 6.5x19cm rectangles. Back is left plain.
- Christmas Tree Hanging - Lightly stuffed Christmas trees made from red patterned fabric and green felt. Running stitch is used to add interest. Alternative project - placemat.
(ISBN 978-1-62710-759-0)
-CR-
November 20, 2019
A beautiful craft book full of little projects that are quick and easy for a beginner, but look stunning when finished. I found these projects to be quite easy, and lovely useful ideas which I could make. It’s better if you can already use a sewing machine, but definitely not impossible for the novice. A lovely book.
July 27, 2014
Beth Sheard shares projects that are simple to construct and given away as gifts to family, friends, and co-workers. She includes preparation techniques such as arranging basic kit tools to use and stitching illustrations showing what your final work should look like.
Projects include pillows for the bed or couch, fabric letters used in a teenager’s room or family room, and a greeting card for any occasion. In addition is a beginner quilt for anyone wanting to acquaint oneself with learning beginning quilting to move on to more advanced quilts. The easy follow instructions are easily shared to teach children or young adults the joy of creating do-it-yourself projects alone or in a group setting.
The project that stood out for me was the beginner quilt, as I love to crochet throws and have interest in quilting to add to my list hobbies. I recommend this book to people who indulge in and love do-it-yourself projects as it has many great projects to create and a great gifting opportunity.
I received this book free from the publisher Taunton Press through the Net Galley reviewer program in exchange for an unbiased opinion in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission guidelines.
Projects include pillows for the bed or couch, fabric letters used in a teenager’s room or family room, and a greeting card for any occasion. In addition is a beginner quilt for anyone wanting to acquaint oneself with learning beginning quilting to move on to more advanced quilts. The easy follow instructions are easily shared to teach children or young adults the joy of creating do-it-yourself projects alone or in a group setting.
The project that stood out for me was the beginner quilt, as I love to crochet throws and have interest in quilting to add to my list hobbies. I recommend this book to people who indulge in and love do-it-yourself projects as it has many great projects to create and a great gifting opportunity.
I received this book free from the publisher Taunton Press through the Net Galley reviewer program in exchange for an unbiased opinion in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission guidelines.
September 5, 2015
Okay this book is full of really simple and basic projects perfect for beginners. It has patterns for owls, cats (which are really cute), totes, banners, table runners and more. Everything can be either hand sewn or by machine. Most if not all of the project can be done with fabric from your stash. Lets face it all us sewers usually have fabric stashes. This book has very good detailed instructions as well as the patterns needed for each project. Plus there are pictures that to guide you in the making of each item as well as a picture of the completed item. At the beginning of the book the author has provided pictured examples of both stitches used in the projects and of the different techniques that will be needed.
This is a wonderful book to give as a gift to someone just starting out learning to sew. Or even for the more advanced sewer that is looking for something simple and quick to make just for fun. You may even find a stitch or technique that you had forgotten how to do or be inspired by a idea that you can build on and turn into something else.
*** Received ARC copy of book from NetGally.com and The Taunton Press, Inc.****
L.
This is a wonderful book to give as a gift to someone just starting out learning to sew. Or even for the more advanced sewer that is looking for something simple and quick to make just for fun. You may even find a stitch or technique that you had forgotten how to do or be inspired by a idea that you can build on and turn into something else.
*** Received ARC copy of book from NetGally.com and The Taunton Press, Inc.****
L.
August 26, 2014
Having received this title through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review, my one word review would have to be FABULOUS! Stitch It Simple simply NEEDS. to be in every crafters home library. For the beginning sewer, Beth offers wonderful hand drawn illustrations on basic stitching that are easy to follow. The sewing enthusiast will want this book handy for gift inspiration and go-to ideas. The first section of the book introduces the reader to the foundations of sewing, the preparations and the supplies. From there, the author offers 25 projects which seem doable for almost anyone. With nearly every project, Beth offers "Beth's Tip" which offers great insight into the project. My favorite part was the "alternative" projects which shows you the diversity of the design and really jump starts your own creative thought process. A colorful cheery fabric line was chosen to create all of the designs and the photographer took great care in giving us great views and up close pictures. This book was well thought out and certainly a winner in my book!
October 12, 2015
This is a great book for craft people, and I really enjoyed it! There were patterns so that you can make actual projects from the book and there are 25 different ones. There was a tote bag, and several throw pillows as well as the alphabets letters done up as little pillows and it featured the wonderful Quilt designer Kaffe Fassett. I would recommend this book to people looking for the perfect gift to make for someone special or just to have for one's own use.
What I also liked is that it is easy to get what you need to make these projects and the instructions are easy to follow which to me is really important. There is nothing more frustrating then seeing something I would like to make and not be able to get the supplies for it easily, and have to do a big internet search to get what I need. Or not being able to understand how to make it from not being able to interpret the patterns!
If you want to spend some quality time to make something really nice I suggest you check this book out!
I gave this book 5 stars!
What I also liked is that it is easy to get what you need to make these projects and the instructions are easy to follow which to me is really important. There is nothing more frustrating then seeing something I would like to make and not be able to get the supplies for it easily, and have to do a big internet search to get what I need. Or not being able to understand how to make it from not being able to interpret the patterns!
If you want to spend some quality time to make something really nice I suggest you check this book out!
I gave this book 5 stars!
August 13, 2016
{ I received this as an ebook from Netgalley. }
This is a cute how-to book with a distinctive style. I am an amateur sewer but the instructions were easy to understand and I felt the projects were at a level that a beginner like me could handle. The only thing that bothered me is that after a while all the projects start to look the same, as the author's style is carried over from project to project with little variation. However, I can also see where this would be a positive, as it is showing the author knows her style and ensures all her works are a reflection of it. Overall, I think this is a good how-to book for beginners like myself who have little experience with sewing; once I get a little more advanced, I could see myself using the instructions in this book for the "bones" of the projects and then adding decorations in my own style to finish them.
This is a cute how-to book with a distinctive style. I am an amateur sewer but the instructions were easy to understand and I felt the projects were at a level that a beginner like me could handle. The only thing that bothered me is that after a while all the projects start to look the same, as the author's style is carried over from project to project with little variation. However, I can also see where this would be a positive, as it is showing the author knows her style and ensures all her works are a reflection of it. Overall, I think this is a good how-to book for beginners like myself who have little experience with sewing; once I get a little more advanced, I could see myself using the instructions in this book for the "bones" of the projects and then adding decorations in my own style to finish them.
January 18, 2015
A gorgeous book.
A lovely book to look through and many lovely projects.
The projects are exactly as the title suggests, simple but I found them very effective. and not to be thought bland.
A simple introduction to a few hand stitches, a couple of basic sewing tips and you get straight into the projects.
Lots of cute designs, applique, stuffed items, hanging items, bags, bunting, cushions and so much more..
this book would suit a beginner and intermediate, or just someone looking for a cute whimsical project.
I don't think any of the projects would take weeks to complete either which is appealing., there are 25 projects included and you could quite easily chop and change them using one template or another for the different finished products.
Overall a lovely book, I may even do some hand stitching for a change this year.
I received no payment in any form for this review.....
It was an Advance Reader Copy book for review.
A lovely book to look through and many lovely projects.
The projects are exactly as the title suggests, simple but I found them very effective. and not to be thought bland.
A simple introduction to a few hand stitches, a couple of basic sewing tips and you get straight into the projects.
Lots of cute designs, applique, stuffed items, hanging items, bags, bunting, cushions and so much more..
this book would suit a beginner and intermediate, or just someone looking for a cute whimsical project.
I don't think any of the projects would take weeks to complete either which is appealing., there are 25 projects included and you could quite easily chop and change them using one template or another for the different finished products.
Overall a lovely book, I may even do some hand stitching for a change this year.
I received no payment in any form for this review.....
It was an Advance Reader Copy book for review.
February 23, 2015
As a novice in sewing, but a lover of crafts, I must say that this book is very appealing in making me thinking about starting some needlework!
Authoress made a great work of creating 25 hand sewn projects, which seems quite manageable for beginner like me. Book starts with sewing information and useful tips (including a lot of quite practical sketches). Projects themselves consist of lovely gift ideas and/or decorative objects and I must say that authoress made her homework well – the ideas are quite appealing to me as I don´t like my items being just the dust collectors, but of real and practical usage, and items in the book seems quite useful indeed. Colors and designs are quite playful, so they will be attractive for children, teens and creative persons mostly.
My favourite projects are „Butterfly Mobile“ (spring is coming!), „Tree Tote Bag“ (quite practical and variable) and „Kit and Kat Stuffed Cats“ (just lovable!).
Authoress made a great work of creating 25 hand sewn projects, which seems quite manageable for beginner like me. Book starts with sewing information and useful tips (including a lot of quite practical sketches). Projects themselves consist of lovely gift ideas and/or decorative objects and I must say that authoress made her homework well – the ideas are quite appealing to me as I don´t like my items being just the dust collectors, but of real and practical usage, and items in the book seems quite useful indeed. Colors and designs are quite playful, so they will be attractive for children, teens and creative persons mostly.
My favourite projects are „Butterfly Mobile“ (spring is coming!), „Tree Tote Bag“ (quite practical and variable) and „Kit and Kat Stuffed Cats“ (just lovable!).
January 11, 2015
What a beautiful little treasure for any crafter's library. The instructions are clearly explained and photos make it even clearer.
This is a quick read, but also a book you will come back to time after time. I have already earmarked some gift ideas to work on over the next few months.
My favorite aspect of "Stitch It Simple: 25 Hand Sewn Projects to Make and Share," is that many of the projects would be simple enough to do with my grandchildren. I have always found that creative opportunities also make for great time of communication and bonding with children.
I plan to buy a copy of this for the L.E.T.'s Center for the Healing and Creative Arts.
Note: I received a complimentary copy from NetGallery in return for my fair and honest opinion.
I highly give this volume a big thumbs up!!
This is a quick read, but also a book you will come back to time after time. I have already earmarked some gift ideas to work on over the next few months.
My favorite aspect of "Stitch It Simple: 25 Hand Sewn Projects to Make and Share," is that many of the projects would be simple enough to do with my grandchildren. I have always found that creative opportunities also make for great time of communication and bonding with children.
I plan to buy a copy of this for the L.E.T.'s Center for the Healing and Creative Arts.
Note: I received a complimentary copy from NetGallery in return for my fair and honest opinion.
I highly give this volume a big thumbs up!!
August 20, 2015
This book has a good selection of easy sewing patterns. Each project has instructions for both sewing by hand and by machine. I Think that is great, since I find these to be mostly beginner patterns. My favorite patterns included the applique lap quilt, letter bunting, hanging butterflies and stuffed cat.. These are all easy to make your own style if you don't care for the fabrics used in the sample. Each project also has a clear, color photograph of the finished project.
There are instructional diagrams for different stitches and for different steps in the projects. Normally that would be great, but they are pretty rough. They don't seem as professional as I expect from a book. They are more like something your friend doodles to try to help explain a stitch to you.
I would recommend this to beginner sewers or those looking for ideas with appliqués
There are instructional diagrams for different stitches and for different steps in the projects. Normally that would be great, but they are pretty rough. They don't seem as professional as I expect from a book. They are more like something your friend doodles to try to help explain a stitch to you.
I would recommend this to beginner sewers or those looking for ideas with appliqués
August 13, 2015
Stitch it Simple is a great book for beginners as well as those who have some experience stitching. It gives you a definition of different stitches as well as a picture reference to go by. For those of us who do better with a visual this book is a lifeline to creativity.
Also there are great projects that you can do. Most are very simple and do not have a lengthy list of supplies you would have to purchase. These patterns also come with great visuals that include the end product as well as steps pictured along the way.
I think this book is very well laid out and can give even the most unimaginative person the tools to create as well as inspire them to go beyond and try more.
I received a copy of this book from NetGallery for an honest review.
Also there are great projects that you can do. Most are very simple and do not have a lengthy list of supplies you would have to purchase. These patterns also come with great visuals that include the end product as well as steps pictured along the way.
I think this book is very well laid out and can give even the most unimaginative person the tools to create as well as inspire them to go beyond and try more.
I received a copy of this book from NetGallery for an honest review.
June 7, 2014
Stitch it Simple by Beth Sheard is a cute hand sewing book that is great for beginners. Some of the projects inside were really appealing to the eyes, it gives you ideas if you are going to do appliqué for a quilt or for other things like totes or aprons. Hand sewing isn't always beautiful and so that may detract from the book. As a society, we are so used to going to the store and getting everything perfect off the shelf, time for us to start sewing for ourselves and learning how to do things the old fashioned way. If this is what you want then this book is for you!
I received a free copy of this book in return for my honest opinion.
I received a free copy of this book in return for my honest opinion.
October 6, 2014
A simple little, beginner sewing book, complete with templates and full color photographs. The book has a variety of projects and filled with ideas for items to make for your home. It's designed for beginner sewers (like me), but unfortunately, most of the projects aren't anything I would actually make, as they are a little too cutesy and a little too, well, plain.
That being said, it's a great book for beginners who want to learn to sew for the home (which to me is easier because you don't have to worry about fit issues like you would in making, say, a dress).
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received a review copy for free from netgalley
That being said, it's a great book for beginners who want to learn to sew for the home (which to me is easier because you don't have to worry about fit issues like you would in making, say, a dress).
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received a review copy for free from netgalley
June 11, 2014
Stitch It Simple
A book for those new to sewing regardless of age.
The included templates are nice to have, even if not all of the projects appeal. For someone who wanted to teach sewing to a young person, however, the projects might be perfect.
Beth Sheard completed her fashion degree in 2007. "She also works as Kaffe Fassett's studio assistant--which she sees more as a daily delight rather than a job!" Yes, working for Kaffe Fassett would be a treat in itself.
Read in June; blog review scheduled for Sept. 29, 2014.
NetGalley/The Taunton Press
Sewing/Craft. Oct. 14, 2014. Print length: 128 pages.
A book for those new to sewing regardless of age.
The included templates are nice to have, even if not all of the projects appeal. For someone who wanted to teach sewing to a young person, however, the projects might be perfect.
Beth Sheard completed her fashion degree in 2007. "She also works as Kaffe Fassett's studio assistant--which she sees more as a daily delight rather than a job!" Yes, working for Kaffe Fassett would be a treat in itself.
Read in June; blog review scheduled for Sept. 29, 2014.
NetGalley/The Taunton Press
Sewing/Craft. Oct. 14, 2014. Print length: 128 pages.
May 22, 2014
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is a pretty simple beginner sewing book. It has some really cute ideas on basic applique as well. I liked that it included templates for each individual project as well as a color picture to show you what the finished product looks like. the instructions were simple and easy to follow.
If your crafty you can take these suggestions and turn them into various projects for items to decorate your house or even gift ideas.
This is a pretty simple beginner sewing book. It has some really cute ideas on basic applique as well. I liked that it included templates for each individual project as well as a color picture to show you what the finished product looks like. the instructions were simple and easy to follow.
If your crafty you can take these suggestions and turn them into various projects for items to decorate your house or even gift ideas.
June 26, 2014
This is a simple book indeed. It has a lot of really nice projects to get your feet wet in hand stitching and appliques. Beginners will not feel overwhelmed with this slim book. I particularly liked the pillows, the slippers and the stuffed fish. The illustrations are not as polished, but it lends a certain style. The diagrams help to visualize how to position pieces especially the piping/edging (I do some sewing myself and it always stumps me). Simple stitching delivers and is definitely a good addition to public libraries.
January 30, 2015
A pretty little book that allows sewists of all skill levels to be able to make gifts or projects for their own homes, i did like that it was not just restricted to machine sewing as some books can be, when lets face it, not everyone has a sewing machine and for some sewing is really more of a hobby - that's what makes this book great. The cushions and letters are great and they are easy to do and they can be customised too. The photos are bright and clear and the instructions are easy to follow. I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 27, 2015
Beth Sheard is a very talented designer, she has spent time working with Kaffe, and the book reflects some of his colour. The book would make a love addition to the library to a beginner sewer and the ideas and worthy of a session sewer, they are bright, easy to follow and make and would make lovely gifts for a new baby or children. Whilst there are many sewing project books on the market, I really enjoyed this one, it is full fun and colour and as the title say "Stitch it Simple" I was supplied with this book free in return for an unbiased and honest review
May 18, 2014
Being a sewer myself I found this book lovely, everything in it is easy for beginners, full of handmade gifts which are easy to follow together with instructions, templates, applique and finishing off techniques. I loved the lampshades, alphabet letters, alphabet bunting, butterfly mobiles and so much more. Its so surprising what you can do with letters and numbers and I loved the mini quilts, such an ingenious book.
May 18, 2014
Actual rating 3.5
This isn't a bad little craft book. The images are lovely, and the ideas are ones that are easily seen in one's own home, and ones that don't intimidate a novice sewer. That being said, there is nothing here to make it stand out, either. The market for these books is large, and not having that hook will make it difficult to stand out amongst all of the options. Thanks to the publisher for allowing me advance access to this title through Netgalley.
This isn't a bad little craft book. The images are lovely, and the ideas are ones that are easily seen in one's own home, and ones that don't intimidate a novice sewer. That being said, there is nothing here to make it stand out, either. The market for these books is large, and not having that hook will make it difficult to stand out amongst all of the options. Thanks to the publisher for allowing me advance access to this title through Netgalley.
June 3, 2014
Simple, cute projects that one actually would enjoy making! I like the idea of working with hand stitching and hope this is just another sign it's making a comeback. I can find quick projects for myself in this book, or things I'd enjoy making with my granddaughters. It doesn't hurt to have the author's samples made of Kaffe Fassett fabrics, either!
I received an ARC from NetGalley for review
I received an ARC from NetGalley for review
December 12, 2014
Sweet book about easy sewing projects.
The instructions were well written and easy to follow for the most part. None of the projects were too out there even for me, even if a lot of them were standard "sewing book fare" (a table runner, a tote bag, a pillow case).
Favorite projects were "fish on a line" (adorable stuffed fish on a fishing line to hang in groups) and the funky flower garden (adorable!)
Illustrations and photography were gorgeous and easy to read. Beautiful book!
The instructions were well written and easy to follow for the most part. None of the projects were too out there even for me, even if a lot of them were standard "sewing book fare" (a table runner, a tote bag, a pillow case).
Favorite projects were "fish on a line" (adorable stuffed fish on a fishing line to hang in groups) and the funky flower garden (adorable!)
Illustrations and photography were gorgeous and easy to read. Beautiful book!
February 3, 2015
I love reading crafty and sewing books as I always get some good ideas from them and some decent tips.
This a is a nice book with basic and easy-to-follow patterns. The projects would be great for a novice sewer and there are a few I'm going to try out for myself.
Shame that the galley I have doesn't come complete with the templates, but I'm sure I can make do and still be able to use projects with ease.
An advance reader copy was kindly given by the publisher via Netgalley
This a is a nice book with basic and easy-to-follow patterns. The projects would be great for a novice sewer and there are a few I'm going to try out for myself.
Shame that the galley I have doesn't come complete with the templates, but I'm sure I can make do and still be able to use projects with ease.
An advance reader copy was kindly given by the publisher via Netgalley
December 15, 2014
Although this begins with an explanation of various hand-stitching techniques, it is not really a beginner's book. Most rank beginners would likely be confused by the instructions. For the advanced beginner or intermediate sewist, however, this is a good source of ideas, instructions, and templates.
Recommended for library collections with an interest in sewing.
Recommended for library collections with an interest in sewing.
August 11, 2016
I reviewed an e-galley of this book, so it was a little more difficult to envision how the projects would look when just reading the instructions. However, there is a good variation in the projects, and they seem like they would be relatively simple to make. I'd be interested to see a full-color, normal size copy of the book to see if I'd choose to make any of the projects.
May 9, 2014
A few nice designs, not to everyones taste. Bright, bold colours are used in the pictures, clear instructions to make items for the modern home but I have to say this is not my cup of tea and it wouldn't be found with my sewing books
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