matter of time

It was only a matter of time before a new bookshelf joined us. Now all my overflow science fiction and fantasy paperbacks that have been hiding throughout the house can settle into their new home.

This year I hope to make a dent in my to-read pile from the many books I own. We’ll see how well I do, the library upped the hold limit from 10 to 15!

Joel Dewberry’s Sewn Spaces: Fresh and Modern Projects for Your Life and Home
by Joel Dewberry

The twenty five projects in this book cover projects where you work, play, and live. They are not all sewn projects, but all involve fabrics in Dewberry’s “eclectic modern style”.

My first pass through the book left me indifferent. I think I was expecting something else, not that I knew what that was considering I am not familiar with Dewberry’s work.

My second and third passes showed me additional levels of interplay between fabric and project, colour and texture. It is the little twists he includes that turn a traditional project, such as a sewn teddy bear, into a fun new piece — the inclusion of a pocket for notes or an mp3 player (the book’s example).

This book is geared toward the beginning sewer, there are tutorials and lists of stitches, supplies, and techniques. However, the step by step instructions are only written. There are nicely styled and clear photographs of the beautiful finished objects, but progress photos are non existent. There are layout diagrams on occasion, but I think the beginner sewer would become quickly frustrated by the projects in this book.

I found the projects provided me with a jolt of inspiration, but I don’t think this title has earned a permanent spot on my bookshelf. It’s nice to borrow from the library, but there really isn’t any one thing compelling me to keep it.

Martha Stewart’s Encyclopedia of Sewing and Fabric Crafts: Basic Techniques and 150 Inspired Ideas for Sewing, Embroidery, Applique, Quilting, Dyeing, and Printing
by Martha Stewart Living

How does one review an encyclopedia? It took me a while to even want to borrow this book from the library because I thought it would be full of projects and techniques I wouldn’t ever do or want. I thought I would become very frustrated with the Martha Stewart Perfection-ness of it really quickly.

I’m not. This book jumped on my wish list within moments of my opening up my library-borrowed copy.

What’s to love? Crystal clear photos & line drawings of techniques. Concise instructions and easy to follow tutorials.

A myriad array of projects and techniques including bags! handkerchiefs! sashiko! lots of accessories for home & you.

My only complaint is that while it’s a nice sturdy hard back, the binding is not one that easily lays flat.

I know I’ll be adding it to my bookshelf soon.. it’s a good thing.

• Category: books