With more than 1,000 alphabetized entries and 3,000 illustrations, this reference combines the convenience of a dictionary with the instructiveness of an encyclopedia to answer all your sewing questions. Covering a wide range of methods and problems, from basic garment construction to inserting zippers, this guide is essential for every home sewer.

If the sewing machine does it, then the technique is here! Anyone looking for advice on those indispensable basics will find a variety of ways to do bias binding, buttonholes, edge finishes, gathering, hem finishes, mitering corners, seam finishes, topstitching, and zippers. Or sewers can learn how to make any item eye-catching with an array of creative touches, including appliqu�, crisscross chain stitching, eyelet embroidery, and lacework. Every technique comes complete with machine setups and guidance on fabrics, stitching, needles, threads, tension, and the presser foot.

With a focus that appeals to one of the fastest-growing segments of the craftmarket, this comprehensive collection contains every technique the home sewer needs, as well as over 100 projects.

Collectors are bound to love The Encyclopedia of Early American Sewing Machines, Second Edition. The first edition of this book, self-published by author Carter Bays in 1993, sold more than 3,000 copies, and he has totally revamped it for this printing. American sewing machines from 1850 through 1920 are featured in more than 450 large, detailed photographs, half of them in color, and current collector values are estimated. The book traces the history and development of the sewing machine industry from 1800 to after 1900. Almost all known U.S. manufacturers of sewing machines up to 1875 (and several beyond) are highlighted: Singer, Wheeler & Wilson, Shaw & Clark, Weed, Howe, and Holly, to name just a few. Do you own your great aunt's antique treadle sewing machine? This book will identify and give the history of the manufacturer. Specific information is provided on restoring antique sewing machines, and toy sewing machines are also given coverage. This title is sure to become the standard reference for early American sewing machines. 2005 values.

Here's another great addition to the Encyclopedia of Art technique series, a favorite with crafts aficionados of all ages. This complete, step-by-step guide to hand and machine sewing combines basic know-how for the beginner with advanced techniques for the more experienced.

Packed with computer-aided designs, information on new types of fabrics, and specially commissioned photos, this comprehensive guide maintains its original appeal, while enticing a whole new generation of readers.

“Organizes the basics of sewing techniques into a photo-heavy encyclopedia for beginner sewers and experts alike.” —Publishers Weekly For Great-Great Grandma, sewing clothes for the family was a necessity. Today, it’s a creative and rewarding personal choice. Now learning how to sew has never been simpler, with step-by-step photographs and friendly advice from internationally accredited sewing expert Wendy Gardiner, and her clear directions ensure that even beginners will get great results. With the techniques you learn in Complete Book of Sewing Techniques, you’ll soon be stitching amazing clothes with skill and confidence. This beautifully illustrated, comprehensive guide to all aspects of sewing from dressmaking to soft furnishings: Covers sewing techniques from hand stitching and hemming to making collars and sleeves, attaching liners, adding darts for shaping, and inserting zips and buttonholes Includes comprehensive information on fabrics, threads, needles and other equipment Features step-by-step photographs and color illustrations