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How-to

BOOK GIVEAWAY: A Guide to Fashion Sewing

You could win this book by leaving a comment.

A COMPREHENSIVE SEWING AND DESIGN GUIDE
A Guide to Fashion Sewing
(Fifth Edition, 2011, Fairchild Books) by noted teacher and designer, Connie Amaden-Crawford, is written for educators, students, and professionals alike. It even includes a DVD to assist students in learning the basic sewing skills covered within the book. There are 22 chapters and just under 400 pages, including chapters on such topics as darts, tailoring, closures, zippers and facings along with just about every sewing and design topic you might want to know more about. The book was featured in Threads issue #156 (August/September 2011) in the “Notions” department.

THIS BOOK WILL MAKE A WONDERFUL ADDITION TO YOUR SEWING LIBRARY
If you love to sew, this detailed paperback reference book will make a fabulous addition to your sewing library. Step-by-step instructions with clear, detailed illustrations make it easy to successfully accomplish the techniques covered.

LEAVE A COMMENT ON THIS POST TO WIN
Simply leave a comment telling us about your sewing skills and what skill you’d most like to improve. Leave your comment on this post before the deadline—11:59 pm, Wednesday, August 10—and you could win a copy of the book. The winner will be randomly selected on Thursday, August 11, 2011

Good luck!

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  1. LoracC | | #1

    I would love this book for my library. I think I need alot of improvement in altering patterns to fit me but I'm sure I could use improvement in just about every aspect of sewing. Always willing to try something new.

  2. User avater
    PinkPandaParade | | #2

    How exciting! I am teaching myself how to sew so I am probably not moving forward in the most organized fashion, and so this book would be a gem! I am to the point now where I can sew clothes I'm willing to wear but I am learning backwards, picking up some basic techniques as I go!

  3. Hevans | | #3

    I first became interested in garment construction when my aunt would drape me in fabrics and even kitchen towels to assist her in design. I would watch her sketch and collect fabric swatches,buttons ,hooks and eyes ribbon and so on to make me a dress,I learned first on my dolls by following her example.
    She went on to make me and family wonderful clothing.

    I still design some children costumes and enjoy sewing.

    I would like to inprove fitting skills.

  4. User avater
    dayyah | | #4

    This book sounds really great. What I love about it is the DVD thats included. When I was learning to sew the class was quite large and personal time spent with the teacher was at a minimum. A DVD is just like spending quality time with your very own personal instructor.

  5. ellwoodmm | | #5

    What a great book to give away! I need a lot of help with learning how to make nicer seams when using jersey fabrics. Plus, I need more inspiration, inspiration that comes from the confidence of knowing where to find useful information to execute your goals.
    Thanks!

  6. MarthaO | | #6

    My mom taught me to sew when I was little, so my knowledge of sewing came early. I also had an amazing teacher in high school who increased my curiosity and sewing skills enough that I ended up at FIDM. Now my career has taken a different path, but I still love to create and sew.

    I find that reference books are essential because they not only have tips and tricks that you haven't thought of before, but they can vastly increase a sewers skills and creativity. Right now I want to vastly improve my tailoring skills. I have a couple of beautiful lengths of fabric that I want to tailor into perfection. I would love to add this book to my very small collection.

  7. jennieMB | | #7

    since childhood all my sewing, hemming, and alterations have been done by hand b/c anything electronic or mechanical goes wrong for me. Maybe a little more knowledge and confidence is all I need.

  8. User avater
    WillaMcNeill | | #8

    Well, I do love to sew. Have not done garment construction in a number of years but would like to get back to it. Mostly now I do little quilted accessories with a momentary craze for tech cozies.

    Thanks.

  9. jsnoble | | #9

    I really need to work on how to alter patterns and do good pattern fitting. I also need more experience sewing with knit fabrics (no serger). Would love to have this book.

  10. frogcreekwoods | | #10

    I need all the help I can get with my fashion sewing! My DD thinks everything I sew comes out too lame for her to wear. I need help in making them look professional and trendy!

  11. Suze60 | | #11

    I sewed most of my clothes until about 20 years ago. I've rediscovered sewing and my love for it, but I could sure use a refresher on the basics.

  12. PeggyBremer | | #12

    I love all kinds of sewing and am currently focusing on learning everything I can about unique techniques for garment construction.

  13. ArtAttack | | #13

    Oh, I would love to have this book in my sewing arsenal! Anything Threads affiliated is the best information available. I consider it my trusted resource for sewing tips, tutorials and fashion. I'm sure Connie's book lives up to the standards that Threads upholds. Pick me!!

  14. khaight | | #14

    I find it really helpful to read the same content, said in different ways. Sometimes I just don't get it...until I've seen it shown or described in multiple ways...to get a visual of what is happening, and to follow the steps in my mind so I can do it.

  15. margiwarg | | #15

    I've been sewing since I was a kid, but I still feel like I'm constantly learning new tricks and techniques. I'd most like to improve my finishing skills, so that the garments I make look more professional.

  16. user-1123561241 | | #16

    Hi. I would love to own this book! It would be the perfect complement to my Pattern Drafting book by Connie Crawford-Amaden. I guess I would say my skills are beginner to intermediate. I need help with fitting and altering patterns, as well as setting in sleeves. Thank you for the opportunity to win this book. : )

  17. User avater
    thesearethebesttimes | | #17

    I could definitely use this. I need all the help I can get :)

  18. User avater
    ShiningStar | | #18

    I know how to sew on a button thanks to Sew Stylish magazine.

  19. lemmonsc | | #19

    I've recently acquired a large vintage fabric collection and am very interested in improving my sewing skills. I've been a sewer since I was 18 years old (now 52), and want to make clothes that are unique and fit superbly. This book could help me take my tailoring skills to the next level. I think the beauty is in the details.

  20. sewgramms | | #20

    I sew by reading the instructions on the pattern sheet. It would be great to have a real reference book.

  21. kafree2fly | | #21

    I, too, would love a copy of this book! I've been working a lot to improve my sewing, and this would be a perfect resource for my one-technique-at-a-time strategy.

  22. User avater
    Out_West | | #22

    I would call myself an intermediate sewer, can make shirts, pants, dresses. However, I don't have much experience making lined garments and would love to learn how even when the directions don't call for lining. Would love to see any tips to make garments look professionally done. Also, would love to see any help with fitting and selecting clothing for body type.

  23. ejshus | | #23

    What a fabulous book - I would love to own it! Currently, I rip apart old clothes to see how the intricacies of facing, interfacing, zippers, hidden waistbands, etc. It would be a huge timesaver and a true inspiration to be able to check The Book!

  24. user-1123541434 | | #24

    I would love to have this book! I am an intermediate sewer and am currently beginning to make my own patterns and designs. This book would be a fabulous addition to my library and a great help to me in increasing my sewing knowledge and skills.

  25. alaskapsych | | #25

    Since I have recently returned to the world of sewing, I would love to have a comprehensive guide to assist me with techniques and terms! Thank you for the opportunity to enter this contest!

  26. sunnyleolion | | #26

    What a wonderful book to have! I recently started sewing again and am loving it! Would love to learn more, especially with apparel!

  27. slowe55 | | #27

    To conflate carpentry and sewing, I would say I am an excellent rough-sewist and I'd like to become a competent finish-sewist. :) I hope this book would help me with clean, professional details and better tailoring.

  28. User avater
    elizabeth001au | | #28

    Inspiration and direction are always welcome and a good thing. This book looks like it fills that spot.
    Id love to improve all aspects of my sewing technique, especially godet insertion and welts.

  29. SuzyQCanuck | | #29

    This book would be fabulous to have as a reference. Pick me!! Please.

  30. Keren_D | | #30

    I have sewn a few garments, some advanced ones as well. I am fascinated with couture techniques, but I also love quilting. making bags, and such. I would love to improve my hand stitching techniques - I love hand stitching and I would like to use more and more of it. I would also like to improve my fitting expertise. I would love to win a copy of this book!

  31. AbigailB | | #31

    I guess I would say I'm an advanced intermediate sewer, and am in a sewing rut. I need some new advanced techniques to pull my sewing out of the doldrums. Since I teach myself how to sew using books and the internet, I think a big comprehensive book like this would be great to have, not only for reference, but to pull out when I want to learn a new skill.

  32. moonstaradri | | #32

    I'd love to have this book - I'm always looking to improve my sewing skills.

  33. elizabethdee | | #33

    I have always learned a lot from Connie Crawford's articles, and how wonderful it would be to have so much of her methodology in one volume. It is more fun to work on mastering construction techniques but I am working hardest on fitting-- it is such a challenge to "read the wrinkles" correctly. Practice, experiment, and more practice for me.

  34. tricone | | #34

    I am a home-sewing enthusiast , who gets frustrated with her lack of ability to finish garments to a professional standard. I am in need of guidance to complete a range of finishes ie collars, cuffs, plackets and buttonholes to name a few. Thanks Anne

  35. Pippa | | #35

    How wonderful to see technical drawings. Photographs, no matter how great can never be a substitute for a clear line drawings when learning how to sew a new technique. Bravo! I hope I win. Fingers crossed!

  36. jjdance01 | | #36

    I have a difficult figure to fit and sometimes I have problems doing just the simplest sewing tasks because of the shape/size of my pieces. Maybe this book will assist me during the creation process. That way, when I sew into the wee hours of the morning, I don't have to poke and prod my mother awake to answer my questions or show me a solution lol

  37. User avater
    Stitcher75 | | #37

    I've been sewing since Jr. High, but, like my piano playing, I am 'tied to the music' (or pattern in this case.) I, too, have problems with fitting. I usually do any adjustments after the fact in the same way I adjust RTW clothes, but it'd be so much more efficient to make those adjustments to the pattern itself BEFORE cutting into the fabric!

  38. User avater
    Stitcher75 | | #38

    I've been sewing since Jr. High, but, like my piano playing, I am 'tied to the music' (or pattern in this case.) I, too, have problems with fitting. I usually do any adjustments after the fact in the same way I adjust RTW clothes, but it'd be so much more efficient to make those adjustments to the pattern itself BEFORE cutting into the fabric!

  39. User avater
    Stitcher75 | | #39

    I've been sewing since Jr. High, but, like my piano playing, I am 'tied to the music' (or pattern in this case.) I, too, have problems with fitting. I usually do any adjustments after the fact in the same way I adjust RTW clothes, but it'd be so much more efficient to make those adjustments to the pattern itself BEFORE cutting into the fabric!

  40. User avater
    Stitcher75 | | #40

    I've been sewing since Jr. High, but, like my piano playing, I am 'tied to the music' (or pattern in this case.) I, too, have problems with fitting. I usually do any adjustments after the fact in the same way I adjust RTW clothes, but it'd be so much more efficient to make those adjustments to the pattern itself BEFORE cutting into the fabric!

  41. User avater
    Stitcher75 | | #41

    I've been sewing since Jr. High, but, like my piano playing, I am 'tied to the music' (or pattern in this case.) I, too, have problems with fitting. I usually do any adjustments after the fact in the same way I adjust RTW clothes, but it'd be so much more efficient to make those adjustments to the pattern itself BEFORE cutting into the fabric!

  42. User avater
    Stitcher75 | | #42

    I've been sewing since Jr. High, but, like my piano playing, I am 'tied to the music' (or pattern in this case.) I, too, have problems with fitting. I usually do any adjustments after the fact in the same way I adjust RTW clothes, but it'd be so much more efficient to make those adjustments to the pattern itself BEFORE cutting into the fabric!

  43. User avater
    Stitcher75 | | #43

    I've been sewing since Jr. High, but, like my piano playing, I am 'tied to the music' (or pattern in this case.) I, too, have problems with fitting. I usually do any adjustments after the fact in the same way I adjust RTW clothes, but it'd be so much more efficient to make those adjustments to the pattern itself BEFORE cutting into the fabric!

  44. User avater
    Stitcher75 | | #44

    I've been sewing since Jr. High, but, like my piano playing, I am 'tied to the music' (or pattern in this case.) I, too, have problems with fitting. I usually do any adjustments after the fact in the same way I adjust RTW clothes, but it'd be so much more efficient to make those adjustments to the pattern itself BEFORE cutting into the fabric!

  45. User avater
    Stitcher75 | | #45

    I've been sewing since Jr. High, but, like my piano playing, I am 'tied to the music' (or pattern in this case.) I, too, have problems with fitting. I usually do any adjustments after the fact in the same way I adjust RTW clothes, but it'd be so much more efficient to make those adjustments to the pattern itself BEFORE cutting into the fabric!

  46. swooninglibrarian | | #46

    Sometimes I tend to not follow the pattern instructions to a 't' and my projects don't come out very well. I'd like to just slow down and enjoy the process as much as I enjoy the finished product.

  47. ahearta | | #47

    Please add my name to the hat for winning this book. My sewing library is very meager at this point, and this book would be a very welcome addition. As a novice sewer, I know there is so much I need to learn about sewing garments that I can't just teach myself. Thanks for the chance!

  48. namasteknitter | | #48

    I just started sewing again after about 30 years. I took one summer school Home Economics sewing class before 7th grade where we made the proverbial apron. From that point I began making my own clothes and prom dresses. I had only basic skills but it was enough. Now I see wonderful designs with great shapes, interesting closures and beautiful detailing. I need more technical skills for seam finishing and fitting. I love Threads because it caters to those of us who want more than the basics!

  49. Mizmash | | #49

    New to the craft, every little bit of advice helps. I'm nervous working with knit or silky fabrics and have a lot to learn about fitting techniques. This sounds like it would be a great go-to reference and very useful in my rather small collection of books. Thanks for the chance!

  50. sewbuddie | | #50

    I have wanted to purchase Connie Amden-Crawford's book for a long time !! Thank you THREADS for this wonderful book give-away.

    Your Sew Buddy, Maryann

  51. User avater
    Robyn_sews | | #51

    This looks like a great reference! I am self taught and am always looking for new ways to do things.

  52. User avater
    thomy | | #52

    I think I have intermediate sewing skills but need to improve working with different fabrics and learning how to finish seams and hems with different techniques. I have been experimenting but a guide would sure be a handy quick reference to have on hand. I sometimes find myself working on a project and not sure how to proceed without some concrete instructions in front of me. Guess I need to take risks and just try. I would also love to improve my pattern adjustment "lack" of skills.

  53. amberelayne | | #53

    I grew up with my Mom sewing for me but when I got old enough to do it myself, she'd had a car accident that prevented her from doing it as much and she gradually slowed to a stop. I've recently pulled my machine back out and am trying to create myself a wardrobe that is me-made, me-styled as well as not buy a single article of clothing for 12 months... (it's been 2 and I'm still going good!).

    I've noticed that I significant gaps in my skills and have been learning from the net and the pattern envelops :) but would like something I can sit on the lounge and devour.

    Please pick me!

  54. ctirish | | #54

    I need this book, I can't believe how much I have forgotten when it comes to sewing. I made clothing for my daughters when they were young but gave it up when I went back to work full time. Now I am retired and it is like starting over. I am finishing four look alike dresses for my granddaughters and the problems I had were beginner mistakes. A refresher course like this book could get me back on track so I can become an excellent sewer.

    Thank you Threads for all you do. jane

  55. User avater
    genevieve | | #55

    Two desired skills:
    i. fitting, especially as my waist and tummy have expanded in recent years
    ii. gettingn started - I often have so many alternatives, I can't decide what only I had the skill!

  56. nanacosta | | #56

    Actually, I do sewing every day!!! and my fabrics are allways 100% silk. There are many fields if not all that I would love to improve, and I work every day trying to become better. But...there are a couple of things that I would love to improve: to work with stretch materials and to have perfect bies cuts...........there is so litle information about it!!! Thank you very much!!!

  57. Jbentley628 | | #57

    I began sewing when I was around 8. I so badly wanted to be Miss America for Halloween so my mom told me if I could learn how to make a dress then I could be Miss America for Halloween. So I did! I didn't sew much after that and for the past year I've been trying to teach myself a little at a time. I'm definitely a visual learner, and having a DVD along with a hard copy reference would be perfect for me! I wish they all came that way.

  58. PatsyS | | #58

    This would be such a lovely addition to my sewing library. I've always had a passion for information & techniques related to sewing! Since retiring, I've also begun teaching young people to sew. Having the best information is a key component in sharing my love of sewing with others. Thank you!

  59. laughingnat | | #59

    I've been sewing for a few years. Mostly small projects for gifts. I have also sewn a few articles of children's clothing. I am very interested in sewing garmets for myself but lack the confidence and some of the skills. I would love to have this book.

  60. buttonsews | | #60

    I'm just getting back into sewing and would love this book!

  61. User avater
    kkemper | | #61

    I am always looking for ways to improve my skills. I would love to see what this book has to offer.

  62. User avater
    SewReel | | #62

    This would be a wonderful book for my library. I have always enjoyed her articles and there is always something new to learn or a better way to master a technique! Sew-on!

  63. textilecrazy | | #63

    Sounds like a great addition to any seamster's library. Even tho' I've sewn for years, there is always something new to learn, or to re-learn, because I keep forgetting what I used to know!

  64. sewboy | | #64

    I love threads makgazine since I first discovered it 15 or so years ago.
    I have sewn fo many years and studied at New Yorks FIT.
    But consider myself a student still after all these years.
    I have learned so much from the pages of the magazine.
    Im fortunate to live here so can go to many of the exhibits.
    As my health will alow.
    Now adays it is getting harder.
    Bad feet keep me on a short leash.
    Im starting to sew for my collection of fashion dolls.
    And the information in threads and the articles on couture are a great insperation to me.
    Id like to start a buisness making and selling limited editons gowns for fashion dolls.
    Everything I learn would be put towards that goal.
    The book plus the dvd would be a major asset to me.
    Seeing the lessons demonstrated make it so much clearer.
    Just as when I was in school.
    The visual hits home for me.
    I could play it over and over till It sticks in my mind.lol

  65. ike2o01 | | #65

    I am just learning to sew for fashion design, and the book is actually required reading for one of my courses here in NYC. I am hoping to learn better technique. I took a hand sewing class this summer and a fashion illustration class, too. I took a few other sewing classes at community college, along with teaching myself techniques and what I learned growing up. Any chance to win the book means less money I have to pay back in student loans!

  66. karenr1123 | | #66

    I come from a long line of women who sew. I started sewing with an old, black-metal, hand-crank, kid's Singer machine in the early 1960's. My mother and I used to sew together; she had an adult-sized black-metal Singer that she received as a wedding gift. We sewed together, Mom sewing clothes for my sister and me while I sewed "clothes?" for my Barbie doll. At about aged 12, I received permission to use her sewing machine. In college, when I turned aged 21, I went to Lake Tahoe and won $500. My friends were rather dismayed when rather than buy everyone a steak dinner, I announced that the money was going toward my first sewing machine. A friend's boyfriend said, "how BORING!!" No matter, shortly thereafter I bought an Elna with stitch cams. Over the years I've sewn clothes, items for the home and many other fun projects. However, my fondest memories are of sewing "clothes?" for my Barbie with that little, hand-crank Singer next to my Mom at the dining room table. I'd love to win a copy of this book and add it to my collection of sewing books.

  67. RKentspeth | | #67

    I am a pretty experienced sewist who is just now getting back to it after some time away (back pain makes for one cranky, non-sewing woman!)

    I am primarily a garment sewist and designer. I have made nearly everything except underwire bras and men's suit coats (also, I've never made a tuxedo or a formal, cutaway/morning suit for a man, either.)

    I love couture details, and would like to read more about them so I can decide what to add to my creations. Also, I'd like to learn more about men's tailoring, particularly shirts and jackets/coats.

    The skill I'd like to improve most is free-cutting (I'm not sure what to call it...) I'd like to be able to lay my fabric out and just cut the pieces I need without a pattern.

  68. Sewbehind | | #68

    I can't resist the allure of anything free! I am sure this book could be put to good use in my sewing room. It's nice to have a reference book where the information is all in one place. I own a few of Connie Crawford's work (not this one), so this one would have company, should I be so lucky!
    Thanks for the book giveaway.

  69. aparwaiz | | #69

    I have not had any formal education or training but I love to create new designs and try to make them a reality however I have so much to learn about sewing, pattern-making, and designing of course. Therefore, I would love to get my hands on this book.

  70. bethanngil | | #70

    I don't think I've seen this book before! I would love to add it to my collection. I've taught myself to sew, and these resource books are invaluable!

  71. niici | | #71

    I would love to have this book I am always looking for ways to become a better seamstress, I had a radical mastectomy sevral years ago and I have to adjust and remake almost every pattern I buy or draft myself. It is very difficult to get a good fit, even if I don't win this book any suggestions would be appreciated or suggested reading would be welcome it is all trial and error. Thanks!

  72. DrivesSewMachBest | | #72

    I could use this book for my sewing library. Thank you

  73. jen0985 | | #73

    I would LOVE this book!

  74. corinnekelly | | #74

    I have been eyeing this for some time and would love to win it ! This would be a great reference for those situations where you aren't quite sure how to do something. Great give away!

  75. showdog1719 | | #75

    I have been sewing since my teens, self taught with one 'couture' workshop but still learning all the fine finishing touches. This book would be a great addition to my library. Thanks for the offer.

  76. luvmy | | #76

    I have been sewing for two years and am self-taught. I LOOOOVE it and am addicted. I love to try new things and jump right in, but my skills can't always keep up with my big ideas. I definetly struggle with fitting my patterns, and would like to be better at inserting zippers, making bias tape and piping, cutting fabric, altering patterns and tailering patterns and finished items. I think I am a beginner, but amd starting to see some real improvements.

  77. sazzyfrazz | | #77

    I'd really love to gain a better understanding of tailoring techniques.

  78. Dexez | | #78

    Wow, sounds like the perfect book. I have a lot of vintage sewing books and though they are lovely and teach you forgotten skills they assume you know a lot of things already. So I would love a comprehensive guide that has a dvd attached to it :) Like a live teacher.

  79. dpete | | #79

    I have been sewing for quite a while, but am not by any means as good as I'd like to be. I love sewing for my kids and probably need the most help with fitting.

  80. User avater
    Jen_NYC | | #80

    I think I'm at the "awkward" stage in my sewing skills. My goals are sometimes a bit ahead of my ability to figure out how to accomplish them! I would like to improve finishing details, those little things that make a garment look professional. Topstitching and more complicated seams, like welt seams, on different kinds of fabrics is my latest challenge. I could certainly use some advice and instructions!

  81. Bluizeblu | | #81

    I did a lot of heirloom-quality sewing for my children when they were little, and have made several quilts. I put my sewing machine aside about 20 years ago to go back to school, start a career, go to school again, and again (odd hobby of mine - I collect degrees), and now it's time to slow down and sew for me. I'd like to learn to alter patterns, fit them to me, and be able to look at a picture and be able to make it using a pattern I already have.

  82. User avater
    Kayle9 | | #82

    Skill level: Intuitive. Which is to say, I've never had any formal training, yet managed to design and sew my own wedding dress after only a year of casual sewing.

    What I'd like to improve: the ability to redesign a commercial pattern -- add sleeves to the sleeveless, extend the sleeves beyond the cap, move a zipper from the back to the side, put the bodice from one dress to the skirt of another, make period costume patterns more "authentic".

  83. HLHSB | | #83

    I would like to learn and improve my pattern drafting skills. This book wold be a great help!

  84. mcedler | | #84

    "A Guide to Fashion Sewing" is a book that I would love to add to my sewing library. I love to do anything that involves needle and thread and have been sewing since I was a child. With two (yes, two) daughters engaged, I will be making a bridal gown for my youngest daughter for a 2012 wedding. This has to be very special and I need help. I'm going back through all of my Threads magazines and with the dvd I can quickly find the information I'm looking for in back issues. I can't wait to get my bi-monthly Threads and with this special project in mind I need all the help I can get with pattern drafting and couture techniques. I am very humbled that my daughter has the confidence in my skills to allow me to create "the dress of her dreams".

  85. User avater
    sewhappybjm | | #85

    I would love to have this book for myself and my fashion conscious daughters.

  86. User avater
    kvenkat | | #86

    My sewing skills are fairly limited to the few things I can do well. I want to expand into more fashion sewing and I am sure I could learn multiple things from this book. I have very few basic sewing reference books so this would be a welcome addition to my tiny collection!

  87. sakina | | #87

    Want Want Want!

    I need to expand my skills and this book would be marvelous to help me along.

    Thank you for offering this Threads!

  88. Ambimom | | #88

    I want, need and lust after that book!

  89. Ambitious_penguin | | #89

    Although, I refused to learn sewing from my mother I was fortunate at 26 to meet up with 2 professional seamsters from Montreal who taught the real basics of sewing. Our patterns were simple cardboard cut outs we could transform into many garments. I spend 5 years at night after work creating lovely clothes for my children.
    Unfortunately, 15+ years later I have lost/forgotten those skills for lack of keeping up and working too much on my computer. It takes me lots of time to figure out hems, fitting and especially tailoring to a 40+ bulging body. This book could motivate me to make clothes again.

  90. User avater
    spaniello007 | | #90

    this book looks so awesome i can't wait to get my hands on it!

  91. User avater
    spaniello007 | | #91

    this book looks so awesome, i'd love to have a copy. i have always loved fashion and done my best to teach myself how to sew, but it's slow going without someone to guide you. i especially struggle with following patterns so that my garments do not turn out lopsided or too small--if this book can give me a better grasp on both of these things it would be wonderful!

  92. SKPeek | | #92

    I just looked up the price of this book - what a deal it would be to win it! I need to get better at knowing how to be more productive in my sewing without losing that professional, quality product. Looks like a real help as well as a phenomenal bargain!

  93. ourlittlehouse | | #93

    I'm a newbie and need improvement with everything really.

  94. Julika | | #94

    My sewing skills are intermediate. Yesterday, for the first time ever (!) I sewed the most perfect looking front fly zipper (or however you call that). Thanks to the information from your magazine and this site, I have been able to improve my sewing skills tremendously.

    Now I need to improve on sewing button holes.

  95. frilly | | #95

    Despite years of sewing, I came searching today for information on lining techniques. Hope to find out whether this new book covers the topic!

  96. User avater
    smfsprout | | #96

    While some of my sewing skills are advanced, others are intermediate. I think this would be a great book to use as a reference - especially for those senior moments when I find it difficult to remember what my sewing instructor told me over 40 years ago when I first began to sew.

  97. Peoney | | #97

    Love that is has a DVD with it!

  98. User avater
    charbroiled | | #98

    I also am a self taught "sewer". My quilts are far nicer than my attempts at dressmaking. Lately I have focused on garment making and have actually improved my skills (thanks to Threads!) Weakest point: working with knits on a regular sewing machine as I don't own a serger.
    This book would be wonderful to possess!

  99. qml347 | | #99

    i would love this book to begin my library. I am somewhat of a novice even though i have been around sewers in my younger years. I would like to improve in everything so this book would be very helpful

  100. sewcheck | | #100

    No matter how long one sews for self, family, home, the art of creating a three dimensional article out of a piece of fabric is in itself, inspirational. Inspiration is the driving force, but knowledge allows the creation.

    That is why, adding this book to my library will, undoubtably, add to my knowledge.

  101. ElleBee85 | | #101

    This book looks great! I would love to have it.

  102. ElleBee85 | | #102

    I would love to have this book.

  103. EZAG | | #103

    This book looks like what I need. We cannot find sewing classes in our rural area, or the next larger towns. I've been quilting for years but now would love to learn to sew clothes, then teach kids and teenagers.

    Thank you
    Erin

  104. Vicsguy | | #104

    I love to read!

  105. Pennywithcurls | | #105

    I have been sewing since age 11. I love the craft and I'm always looking for new books on the subject. With two daughters living 1,000 miles away it has become difficult to sew for them, but I'm up to the challenge!

  106. Sarah3811 | | #106

    I have been sewing for a few years now and am always looking to improve my skill set and make my work look more professional. I do a lot of historical reproduction sewing. This book would be a lovely addition to my library.

  107. pugbug | | #107

    I grew up watching my grandmother, mom and aunt sew. I started sewing clothes for my older sister, mother and myself when I was 12 and started sewing for my younger sister when she was older. I took every Home Economics class that was offered in school just so I could sew everyday. I've taught my oldest daughter and niece how to sew and I'm always willing to teach anyone showing an interest in sewing. I would love to have this book in my collection because I'm always looking for new creative ideas to learn and improve my sewing skills.

  108. mycreation | | #108

    I have just started sewing again. I have forgotten some of the basic instructions and so this book would be very helpful. It appears to provide information on materials plus sewing tips. It appears that it would be useful to a beginner like myself or an experienced sewer who is trying a different type of project. A welcome addition to any sewers library.

  109. sewing_teacher | | #109

    This would be a great addition to my sewing library!

  110. nncw12 | | #110

    i would like to improve in everything, i'm self taught thru trial and error, so, this book would really help!

  111. ShawnMory | | #111

    I just purchased my first Threads magazine and I loved all the helpful hints as well as the story on the designer Balenciaga! Although I am 56 and have sewn for years, as a mostly self-taught sewer, I find that I want and need to learn more. At this stage of my life, I would rather be more mindful of the process of making beautiful clothing and take my time than to continue making mistakes. I would LOVE to win this latest book on A Guide to Fashion Sewing! I am addicted to Project Runway and really wish that someone out there would make a detailed how-to video on how the designers on PR make something from 4 yards of fabric and a dress maniquin!

  112. tnirishmama | | #112

    I am just getting back to sewing after many years and need a good book to help with all the basics.

  113. Rabia | | #113

    One can always use a good book on sewing in one's library, so I am leaving this comment here so as to be on the list of contestants. I just HATE the fact that there are any number of book giveaways that I have missed out on, so I will start coming here more regularly to make sure I don't miss any more of them!I am a pretty good and creative sewer but Kenneth King I ain't! But I'm working on it...

  114. idosew | | #114

    One can never stop buying books when new and interesting ways are alway in them.

  115. pmkurth | | #115

    I have been sewing since I was 5 years old. I learn something new all the time! I would love to add this book to my sewing library and learn something new!

  116. Shelsa | | #116

    My great-aunt taught me to sew when I was in grade school. Her knowledge and patience was beyond valuable. She passed away a few years ago and I truly miss her guidance. I am still young and a novice seamstress, so I certainly am learning new things everyday and could stand to learn more. I am always looking to continue my sewing education...just like I know I'd be doing with her, were she still alive. I would eventually like to teach my daughter to sew and pass on the talent given to me by my great-aunt so many years ago. ...And I'm always thirsty for the information contained in a good book!

  117. pocketofsun | | #117

    New to your blog & just learning to sew. Thanks for the opportunity to win this book.

  118. AnnaBear | | #118

    I'm just starting to sew, and this book would be a launching-point for me. I have already made a few things and have had a lot of beginner's luck, but I'd like to learn faster and with more intention. I would ultimately like to be able to make the clothes I see in my head at a professional-looking level instead of having to borrow clothes from showrooms for events and tapings.

  119. eemoody | | #119

    My sewing skills are intermediate, and I'd most like to learn how to do attractive top-stitching!

  120. User avater
    gandmfausel | | #120

    I would use this in my Sewing class this fall, US students

  121. 3kids | | #121

    I am an advanced sewer and I love to share any sewing tips and information with the people I work with. I am always trying to improve on all my skills. I love having sewing books to look through to see where I can improve.

  122. felikitty | | #122

    I am a beginer at sewing. I made a bag, and ebook reader case...and then I just jumped head first into a dress pattern....wow..many tears of frustration :) haha. Although it is frustrating at times, I feels like sewing just fits for me. I would love to use this book to aid my progress in making and designing clothing. My dream is to make beautiful(!) dresses and eventually, clothing for my children.

  123. Chucky10 | | #123

    I love to sew and just the other day was having difficulty with my zipper application. Checked the books I have and none had what I was looking for. I thought I must look for a new Fashion Sewing Book with some of the new techniques. This book sounds exciting. Can hardly wait!

  124. adeebaanaskhan | | #124

    hello there,i am a intermediate sewer and sew clothes for myself and family and relatives and not to forget my young daughter.now i want to upgrade my skills by trying new stuff.i learn from mags and books coz no one else around me knows how to sew.im v.interested in this to add to my library.
    thanks.

  125. User avater
    andysmom | | #125

    I am very fond of Connie's patterns. I find they are the best fitting for my body type. Based on that experience, I would look forward to this book.

  126. User avater
    stevndi | | #126

    I would like to improve altering patterns.

  127. user-638516 | | #127

    It sounds like a book that should in any sewer or designer's library.

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