I have this book (so exclude me from the drawing) and it is incredible. I have been a McQueen fan since he first showed up in fashion, and this is just a visual feast. If you don't win it, at least try to borrow a copy to peruse. It confirms, for me, that he was an artist, first and foremost, and clothing was just his medium.

I'm probably the only one in the bunch that isn't happy about this format change. There is a wealth of information on the internet (for free) these days on how to do couture techniques, images of vintage and couture garments inside and out, etc. As much as I love Threads magazine, I do not want to have to pay to subscribe to this new format. I already own a library full of sewing books-both vintage and up-to-the moment. I liked this forum for the community sharing-the projects and articles are more geared towards advanced sewers than other forums out there. But, this "Insider" tact feels unfriendly in concept to me. Just my two cents worth, and I am not posting here because I want in on the drawing for the membership.

My experience (as a city kid) with 4-H was wonderful. I had an excellent sewing teacher. She was young enough to know we wanted to sew cool things, but old enough to be a taskmaster. She made sure we learned how to do everything the right way-even if it meant tearing things out again and again. We learned how to draft patterns as well as the basics of sewing. It was an amazing foundation that I have continued to build on my entire life. It also was a great after school refuge of creativity and friendship. I can really recommend 4-H to anyone who wants to share their love of sewing. You never know what kind of an impact you will make on a child....

I am not familiar with his work at all. Sad! I would be interested to see how he puts the structure into his garments. Charles James is one of my favorites, and the red dress above has a look similar to some of his gowns.

Charles James has always been one of my favorite designers. I am really looking forward to seeing a peek inside some of his fabulous gowns. The one book I do own on his work, just isn't enough! He was a master of sculptured couture...

This is lovely! I have the Sense and Sensibility patterns, and need to make a gown soon. This is great inspiration....

A beautiful dress fit for a princess! Congratulations on all the awards...

This is gorgeous!

Oh, this is so yummy! Love it....

This is just beautiful. I don't understand the snide comments; this is a special occasion piece. It obviously made the bride and groom very happy, and made their day their own. They were lucky to find a talented as well as open hearted sewist to make their vision come true. Well done!

This is one of the most fantastic reproductions I have seen. The care you took in construction is what couture is all about. You look gorgeous! Congratulations on a spectacular project.

I love looking through all my copies of Threads magazine, but I always end up distracted by the great articles I haven't read in a long time! Maybe this would help me cut to the chase, and find just the article I *NEED* at that moment? So sign me up for a chance to win this.....

This is a fantastic idea for a book series. Most of my work is inspired by historic clothing; having more resources into the design and construction of any garment is always exciting. This is as close to being in the archives at the V&A as I will probably ever get!

I've always been terrified of button holes! So if I could learn a few tricks, it might ease my fears........I usually end up putting zippers in everything, and avoiding coat and jacket patterns. I want to make a new winter coat, so this could come in handy!

I've been building corsets for a long time, and really prefer to work with structure when making garments. I love corsets and vintage lingerie. But, I have never worn (or own) any of the new "girdles"-Spanx! There is such a range of dress currently, from the downright slovenly, to the costumed. I think, if we can progress in society to a point where everyone can dress they way they feel comfortable, without being offensive, that will be exciting. I know so many people who are so much more comfortable wearing their period clothing than jeans and tee-shirts. What fun would it be if we all just dressed to please ourselves, and give others a bit of a laugh, and some joy, through our self expression?

Tailoring (or sewing for men) is not something I have studied yet, beyond making a vest! Time to learn...if I can build a steel boned corset, shouldn't I be able to make my husband a frockcoat? I would love to have this book....thanks!

This is incredible! I would like to hear from Norma, what the process, and experience was like. Any plans to do an aritcle in the magazine?

Oh my gosh, I always stop at Luc's booth first! The most gorgeous laces. It's true, you can find the most wonderful and unusual things at a sewing show. Everyone should go at least once, just for the overwhelming visual and creative experience. So much fun!

Beautiful! I love the color. Did you make it for yourself? It would be so fun to wear-it reminds me of the gowns from "Ever After".

Brilliant! I buy from the thrift shops, and remake garments almost exclusively for my own wear now. This is a great tip-thank you.

Yes, please enter me! The V&A has a pattern available for free download, for a 50's dress. If memory serves me, it was a Horrockses day dress. Anyway, it is lovely, and best of all-FREE! Here is the link-http://www.vam.ac.uk/vastatic/microsites/1486_couture/create.php

Thank you for the link. I will definitely check it out.

This is lovely! We are going to a Regency Ball in spring, so I am looking forward to making a gown. Thanks for sharing your gown-it is inspiring!

What great pictures! this was such a terrific idea, and she did a wonderful job on the fish.

This is so beautiful-love the fabric. I have this pattern, but have had no reason to make it up yet. I will have to pull it out, maybe for New Years...yours turned out so lovely, it is inspiring.

I think the judges made a mistake this season, in choosing Gretchen. Her final collection was dull and lifeless-no energy, and so like what is out there in retail already. Mondo certainly has the panache on the runway, but I believe his target audience will be small. (And not respecting the advice of people who have been successful in this industry doesn't bode well for him). I honestly thought that Andy's collection, taken in pieces, was the best. The grey/silver color was ethereal, and many of the blouses were lovely (and I believe marketable) separates. I didn't care for the greens he used, but that cocktail dress at the end was beautiful. It could have been made up in black, or any other deep color, and been a great evening look. I would have bought it! Well, if I didn't sew, that is....

I saw this dress on the Burda site, and LOVED it! I voted for you there, so hope you win. Thanks for posting the "making " details; it is just a flirty, fun but sophisticated dress.