The Dressmaker's Handbook of Couture Sewing Techniques: Essential Step-by-Step Techniques for Professional Results

by Lynda Maynard

Packed with professional techniques and tips, The Dressmaker’s Handbook of Couture Sewing Techniques takes the mystery out of the sewing and fi nishing techniques that many dressmakers assume are either extremely diffi cult or are only for professional fashion designers.

Fashion designer and expert sewist Lynda Maynard tackles each professional technique with clear instructions in simple step-by-step stages. Once these skills are understood, sewists will embrace their dressmaking projects with more confidence and the ability to create chic, refined looks. The Dressmaker’s Handbook of Couture Sewing Techniques unlocks the door to stunning results with better shaping, simpler construction methods, and professional finishing touches. Lynda also explains several seemingly difficult “secrets,” from making bindings and finishing for hems, armholes, and necklines to underpinnings and structuring techniques. Plus, she teaches how to master finishing touches from textured stitches to couching and appliqué. A complete guide to the fabrics suited to each technique and inspirational fashion photography are also included.

Genres: Sewing, Fashion, Nonfiction, Reference, Crafts, Design, Art

160 pages, Spiral-bound

First published September 1, 2010

Reviews

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

originally checked out from the library, purchased my own with a jo-ann's coupon. not truly couture, but lots of techniques to move your sewing up a notch - or two. for me, very inspiring.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wouldn't say that this book is as much about sewing couture as it is about making your garments appear couture, but with a lot less hand sewing. And I love that! I know some reviewers have been upset that Lynda Maynard listed the serger in her list of necessary supplies to sewing couture. I agree that would not be correct - but then I think they aren't really understanding the idea behind this book. The sub-title really says it all.

I am re-reading the book after taking Lynda Maynards Fitting class on Crafty.com and I'm finding itv a great addition to any garment maker's library if they are looking to get the most professional results possible in the most timely manner.

The books presents many gorgeous techniques with high quality materials and a couture looking finish. I have to say that I still found the first 50 or so pages pretty boring stuff that's been done in every sewing book. However, the rest of the book makes up for that with some things I have never seen before and many brilliant ideas. The "Design Details: Concealed" section is really fantastic such as how to line a skirt while automatically creating a hong kong finish, how to make a high waisted facing that will never collapse, how to make a zipped hanging pocket inside pants or skirts for hidden stoprage. This is the most brilliant section. But there are also things before that section, such as adding a button closure on a chiffon shirt using silk organza or how to use silk charmeuse as a hem facing with no hand finishing that I would never have thought of or even thought possible.

I have to highly recommend the book to any dedicated garment sewer, and as I always say, take it out of the library first. See if you want to own it. That's what I always do. But it's hard to resist.

[Bekah · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was really surprised to see that a lot of these techniques could be accomplished with a sewing machine. I have always associated the word couture with "sewn by hand". There were some very clever techniques that I want to apply to my future makes, but there were also a few duds. Either because I know the technique, it seemed superfluous, or the way it was eplained just confused the matter. I don't think I would buy this, but I can see myself grabbing it from the library now and then, as needed.

[Jane Dugger · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great reference book to take your sewing up a notch.

The pictures are very nicely done & the explanations are clear & concise. I really like that it's a spiral bound book, i.e. it lay flat when open. Smart.

[Sitha · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book gives many informations about nicer & more comfortable finishing touches on our homemade garments. And the photos! They help me a lot. This is my new favorite sewing book, yes it is.

[Lynette Caulkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

I learned several useful couture techniques that came in handy while making wedding clothes for a Renaissance affair. Definitely worthy of your sewing aids shelf.

[Cindy Tan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love how she put a "Summary" of the book in pictures. Thus we can see all kind of hemming, decorative stitches etc that are discussed in a book in only a few pages, and dive straight in after we know the page number.

The instructions are clear and mostly there are pictures for every few steps.

Another better option would be Reader's Digest Sewing, which is my favorite. It's the most thorough and most complete sewing guide book. It has step by step pics / diagrams, making it very easy to follow. The only drawback is that the book does not specialises in Haute Couture, it covers RTW.

[Kati · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was kind of odd. It starts with a bunch of machined sewing tricks, which aren't really what I think of for 'couture'. They can be useful for a home sewer, though. Then there's a section in the middle about fabrics, which would usually be in the front of a sewing book, and finally a section with some actual basic couture techniques. I won't add this to my library; you might want to borrow it before you decide for your own.

[Casey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think there's a lot of useful techniques to help make homemade clothes look more polished. Things like how to work with delicate materials such as chiffon, and how to make waistbands that don't roll.

I will update to five stars if I successfully try a technique.

[Carolyn Page · Rating 4 out of 5]

While I don't think I would use every technique detailed in this book, it is the type of volume I would like to have on my shelves for reference. Honk Kong finish on the outside? Someone would have to be dying. Couture dart? Will try on my very next project.

[Gail Richmond · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting details with appropriate detailed directions.

[Cara]

Several useful techniques, including how to make nicer pockets and how to bind the neckline of a curved shape in knit fabric.

[Susan Collinsworth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good explanations of many couture techniques with helpful photos.

[Mary Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are looking for this at the library - I probably have it checked out again. And after you request it and I have to return it-- I'll wait for your to finish, then I'll check it out again.

I should probably just buy it. It's excellent.

Lots of cool tips that I really should try. Excellent photos and well defined steps.

[Iroquois · Rating 5 out of 5]

love it
has beautiful pix, great instructions, and concise in showing those finishing touches that every home-seamstress would like to learn for a professional feel and look to their creations. hope there are more books to come, showing even more techniques

[Guenevere · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book focuses on the finishing of your garments - hems, zippers, piping, darts, etc. The layout is well planned out and has a natural flow. The pictures are amazing and very helpful for someone like me who needs visuals.

[Jay · Rating 3 out of 5]

seemed like a great book of tips and techniques, it's going in the fantasy craft list tho, as i will probably never sew enough to even use them

[Jeanne Mac · Rating 5 out of 5]

some nice techniques wouldn't mind having this book

[Eldra · Rating 4 out of 5]

So much to learn! As I labor away at my sewing machine, I realize that I'm pretty good for an average sewist but really, those who are great, are UNBELIEVABLE!

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has very clear directions complete with illustrations that will not only show you how to use these techniques but are also inspiring. Clear directions overall and not too much hand sewing.

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

this is one of those I never finish. Always referencing it.

[Bev Sturgis · Rating 4 out of 5]

beautifully photgraphed book. need to spend more time with it - borrow again.

[Kimberli · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent reference Bo for superb finishing techniques.

Sewing level: advanced

[Monica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent resource.

[Shirin Bagherzadeh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love it !!!
The designs are so pretty !!!

[Blanca Madrigal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great detail on sewing techniques.