Sewing in a Straight Line: Quick and Crafty Projects You Can Make by Simply Sewing Straight

by Brett Bara

Overview

Create an entire world of sophisticated projects using one simple skill.

Absolutely anyone can sew in a straight line. And with this one skill and some basic guidance, television host and crafty expert Brett Bara demonstrates how you can make custom home decor, stylish fashions, and one-of-a-kind gifts.

Sewing in a Straight Line is a step-by-step guide to creating 28 deceptively simple projects that look like they came from a chic boutique—far more impressive than you would expect for such little effort! These easy-to-make items offer quick gratification that even the busiest among us will appreciate. From a flirty two-hour miniskirt to the cutest plush toys, many of the projects take only a spare afternoon.

With Brett's eye for fresh, modern style and her encouraging advice, sewing couldn't be easier. So break out your needle and thread, fire up your machine, and get creative. A world of handmade possibilities is a few easy stitches away!

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780307586827
Publisher:	Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed
Publication date:	07/19/2011
Sold by:	Random House
Format:	eBook
Pages:	160
File size:	22 MB
Note:	This product may take a few minutes to download.

About the Author

BRETT BARA is a New York City–based crafts and DIY lifestyle expert. She is the host of Knit and Crochet Now on PBS, a spokeperson for Warm Up America!, and the former editor-in-chief of Crochet Today magazine. Her "Sewing 101" column is a regular feature on Design*Sponge. Visit her website and blog at www.brettbara.com.

Table of Contents

Introduction 8

Straight to the Point: Why Sewing Isn't As Hard As you Think 8

Getting Started: How to Sew a Straight Line 10

Basic Sewing Tools and supplies 11

Sewing a Straight Line: By Hand 15

Sewing a Straight Line: By Machine 16

Basic Sewing Techniques 18

Fabric Basics 25

Straight-up fashion 26

The One-Hour Skirt 28

Quilty Zigs and Zags 32

Shirred to the Max 36

Easy, Breezy Blouse 40

City Girl Tote 45

First Time's a Charm Cardi 50

Heavy Metal Bag 56

The 60-Second Belt 63

Sewing School Skirt 64

Origami Dress 70

Cozy, Crafty home 76

Customized Curtains, Two Ways 78

World's Easiest Zippered Throw Pillow 84

15-Minute Shams 87

Make-It-Your-Way Ottoman Cover 88

DIY Duvet Cover 92

Clutter-Busting Bucket Tote 96

Pixelated Throw 100

Wonky Diamonds On Point 106

qucik, cute gifts 118

Folded Flower Bowls 120

Go Second Hello 129

9-to-5Folder 130

The Magic Sewing Kit 134

On-the-Go Jewelry Keeper 140

Denim Dop Bag 145

Mister Bunny and Miss Kitty 150

Fabric Resources 159

Index 160

Editorial Reviews

"A fresh and very chic compendium for everyone's sewing library! I love that this book is both welcoming for beginners and incredibly inspiring for sewists of all levels." —Amy Butler, author of Style Stitches

"Like a fun and patient teacher, Brett Bara guides readers through both sewing basics and more advanced skills without any of it seeming intimidating at all." —Debbie Stoller, author of the Stitch'n'Bitch series

"Sewing in a Straight Line opens up unlimited creative possibilities. Now even with basic sewing skills, I can show off my personal style." —Christina Batch-Lee, Etsy.com

"This is everything (and more) a novice sewer could hope for in a book. From a refresher in the basics to beautiful projects, Brett reminds us that gorgeous clothing and decorations don't require years of experience."—Grace Bonney, Design*Sponge

From the Publisher

Beginning sewing projects can be plain and dull. Bara, who writes a sewing column for the popular Design*Sponge website, presents a collection of projects that require minimal sewing skills but deliver maximum excitement and charm. The projects, which include garments, home decor, and gifts, are simple yet chic, and the step-by-step directions include ample illustrations. Although these are beginners' projects, Bara doesn't shy away from introducing more advanced techniques or slightly intimidating fabrics such as vinyl. Beginning sewers looking for projects beyond pillowcases and simple rectangular tote bags will enjoy this charming collection.

Library Journal