Joined in 2023 
82 
63 About this deal
From how to thread your machine and select fabric, to your first projects on to slightly more advanced techniques. This does take a very gentle learning curve from the very start to probably an advanced beginner level. Its hard to judge from my more experienced viewpoint but none of it seems impossible for even a newbie, and it gently increases the difficulty and complexity as it goes through the patterns.
It's World Book Day tomorrow and we're thinking about our most treasured books. Like loooads of other sewists, I (Louise) used Tilly's first book, Love at First Stitch, as a tool when I first started sewing. And because of that, it's a book that will always have a very special place in my heart :)
PREVIOUSLY...
If you are thinking about getting one of Tilly's books, you might be wondering which one is the best for you. And, what's in these gorgeous books I hear so much about? Grab a cuppa, and come on into the sewing library - shhh! Fancy making your own clothes but have no idea where to start? Tired of overwhelming sewing manuals and frumpy projects? Love at First Stitch offers a refreshing approach to dressmaking for modern makers, taking you from the basics of threading your sewing machine through creating gorgeous garments that you'll love to wear. Let Tilly Walnes inspire you with her jargon-busting tutorials, down-to-earth attitude, and adorable dressmaking style, showing you that making your own clothes is so much more enjoyable than buying them. I love the fact you get patterns for each items, you only need to buy materials to sew the clothes. After that you move on to sewing your first garment - the Margot pyjama bottoms, then you will learn a valuable skill - how to insert an invisible zip with the Delphine skirt.
Plus, instructions for drafting your own simple patterns for the Brigette scarf and Clemence skirt. It takes you straight from sitting at the sewing machine for the first time, right through to sewing things that feel more advanced, like darts and fiddly bits. It was my first time using a sewing machine since school.
What did you think of this book? Did it help you as a beginner or as a more experienced dressmaker? a) Sewing machine basics & Sewing School basics (Jane Bolsover) - really good techniques, and some very good mixed
a) The Great British Sewing Bee ("From Stitch to Style" version) - lots of all round useful techniques and clothing In Stretch!, Tilly takes you through all you need to know about sewing with knit fabrics and how it behaves. The book is the perfect guide for anyone who has never sewn with knit fabrics, or anyone wanting to perfect their stretchy sewing skills while making a set of gorgeous handmade outfits. Tilly Walnes demystifies dressmaking for the generations that have never been taught to sew. Written for novice stitchers by the author of the popular sewing blog Tilly and the Buttons, this book presents the sewing basics in an informal style, with Tilly's friendly and encouraging voice cheering the reader on throughout. Instead of overwhelming the novice dressmaker with theory, this book is about learning by doing. Each chapter presents practical tips and inspiration to guide you through creating a made-to-measure garment from one of the seven versatile and adaptable patterns included with the book, which can then be personalized to suit your individual style. Peppered throughout the book are Tilly's top sewing tips, including everything from what to look out for when buying--or borrowing--your first sewing machine, to how to behave in a fabric shop so that you appear like an expert, to techniques for pressing perfection. Make It Simple does what it says on the tin. It helps you find ways to make your sewing more approachable so you can fit it into your busy life. The sewing shortcuts, lifestyle tips and sewing techniques include:
BLOG VIEWS
The book includes patterns for the Brigette Scarf, Margot Pyjamas, Delphine Skirt, Megan Dress, Clèmence Skirt, Mimi Blouse and Lilou Dress. Tilly's hints and tips for making sewing part of your lifestyle, adding your own special touch to any sewing project, and even how to polish your signature style. The final project can definitely be described as a show-stopper. The Joni dress features a stunning twist front in the bodice that is surprisingly simple to make. You can test your skills with a stretch velvet and/or a sequined skirt while Tilly guides you through the process. Simple, elegant, and a little groovy, Love at First Stitch is all you need to start making the dresses of your dreams--with 7 complete full-size patterns.
Tilly's first book captures the spark that is ignited when you first sit at the machine. Everything is so new and exciting, and nothing is off-limits. Love at First Stitch will take you through all the essential things you need to know when you are getting into sewing, and will guide you through projects that will help you build up a handmade wardrobe while learning sewing skills that you will count on later in your sewing life. Basically it's like taking a dressmaking course, but in book form.
I've so far almost finished the Megan dress (just waiting for my zip to come in) and nearly finished the Clemence Skirt, both with no major problems.
Great Deal 
New Comment