Sewing has been a popular craft for hundreds of years and it especially took off after the patenting of the first sewing machine in 1864, according to Sewing in America. Thus, there are thousands of sewing patterns and books to sort through, both new and old. Consider these points before you make your final purchase on a sewing book or pattern.
1. Don't pay attention to the fabric used in the pictures
Unless you are going to specifically seek out a particular fabric, you shouldn't put too much stock in the fabric used to demonstrate what the final product will look like. Especially if you dislike the fabric the author chose, try to picture in your mind what the outfit or item would look like in a neutral color in your home or wardrobe. This applies to both sewing pattern books and individual patterns.
2. What patterns will you actually make?
Sewers should have a type of pattern in mind before going to the craft store, otherwise you will likely come home with an armful. Look at the patterns you already have and pinpoint what kind of pattern you currently need. If you want to make a variety of skirts in different colors, focus on finding the perfect skirt pattern so you don't become distracted with all the other patterns in the store.
When buying a book, focus on one particular area of sewing at a time. If you are primarily interested in creating clothes, flip through books focused just on clothing. Make the purchase if a handful or more look interesting to you. However, if a book has just one pattern that suits your tastes while the rest are ho-hum, pass the book by.
This can also help you avoid books that provide patterns for a variety of items – such as clothes, dolls and blankets – when you are only interested in one type.
3. Do you work patterns exactly as written or do you often make alterations?
People who work patterns exactly as written can benefit from books that focus on a variation on a theme. Some books provide a series of patterns that are all based on one pattern. Each section of the book adds details and small changes to the base pattern to make different figures.
For those who feel comfortable altering, adjusting and adding details to patterns, the most beneficial books would have distinct instructions for every pattern. This will provide more value to the crafty buyer who will make her own adjustments anyway.
4. Who are your projects for?
If you only make crafts for your own personal use, choose books or patterns that you want to work on and will benefit you the most when completed.
However, if you plan to give your handiwork as a gift, keep the recipient in mind when choosing colors and patterns. While you may think the pencil skirt and collared blouse are appropriate, your teenage daughter may think otherwise. For books, choose one focusing on a theme that will likely come up more than once, such as those focused on holiday decorations or baby quilts.
5. What's your skill level?
Sewing more than any other craft can expect a high level of skill and knowledge of sewing terms, even in the basic patterns. If possible, flip through the pattern instructions to see if there are any unexplained terms that you don't recognize. Working from a pattern or book that is above your skill level can help you to improve your sewing talents, but it will also likely be frustrating to get through.
6. Does it offer pattern pieces?
This is usually only an issue with sewing books or patterns purchased online. Some books will have you trace pieces off the page while others will have you print the pieces out at a certain size. This can be problematic if your computer sizes the image incorrectly or you do not have a working printer. Printer paper is also not nearly as flexible as the thin, brown paper used in most sewing patterns.
Other books will also give the reader measurements to cut out instead of pattern pieces. While some readers may like this set up, it can be an extra layer of work for others.
7. Wait for the sale
Most patterns will go on sale at major craft stores at least once per month. Some of the $16 patterns will suddenly be a much more affordable $2, so it is worth the wait to pick up a pattern. Waiting an extra week or two can also give you time to consider whether you really need to purchase the pattern.
Picking the right book or pattern can take time, preparation and a little research, but one that is well-picked will be used over and over again throughout the years.
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