Sew 8 stylish, versatile garments with this essential beginner's guide to dressmaking, from best-selling author and teacher Julia Hincks.

This fully illustrated, step-by-step guide contains all the techniques you need, plus four full-size (1000 x 700mm) pattern sheets for sizes UK 6-30 (US 2-26, EU 34-58).

In this complete course, popular sewing guru Julia Hincks covers everything you need to get going: discover the essential tools and materials, how to read and use a sewing pattern, choose fabrics, make seams and understand dressmaking terminology. Clear step-by-step photographs and easy-to-follow instructions make it accessible for all, whether you are creating your first garments or revisiting the basics.

The 8 projects are carefully chosen by Julia to teach you new skills each time, so that you can build up your confidence through practice. Each of the stunning projects will teach you new techniques and terminology, and will gradually develop your skills as you work through the book. 

Choose from 8 stylish garments:

• pattern-free skirt
• top
• robe/jacket
• skirt
• shorts
• vest
• trousers
• dress

Full-size pull-out pattern sheets are included, graded in 13 sizes from UK 6-30 (US 2-26, EU 34-58).

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With interest in screen-free analog hobbies trending up, while everyday affordability trends down, there couldn’t be a better time for a book targeted to the complete beginner who wants to learn how to sew and create their own clothes. UK-based sewing teacher Hincks provides a thorough, authoritative guide that also manages to be completely clear and unintimidating. There are eight projects, each of which introduces at least one foundational technique so learners can gradually build skills and confidence. Color photographs clearly illustrate all techniques, tools, and materials, and instructions are exceptionally easy to follow. New home sewers can start with a simple, pattern-free skirt, then move on to a short-sleeved top, an unconstructed short jacket, a skirt with pockets, a sleeveless top, shorts, pants, and a dress. Even better, these simple basics can be combined and adapted to create even more types of garments. The book includes a set of full-size pull-out pattern pieces that are needed for all but the pattern-free skirt project. Ideal for anyone new to dressmaking as well as those who want to review the basics.