Introduction

Little Sew & Sew by Christine Leech is the perfect companion for any avid embroiderer or beginner. There are over 50 embroidery patterns and 16 projects, all of pieces that can be displayed around the home. Leech describes embroidery as “the new yoga” meaning there are recognised therapeutic benefits to slow stitching – you just need the perfect project to unlock them. 

Who is it for?

Little Sew & Sew is perfect for beginners – particuarly those who believe embroidery to be left in the past and something maybe not for them. This trendy and accesible guide is guaranteed to give the reader a new perspective. Marie Claire gave a glowing review to the book, commenting that it “stylish” and responsible for “whisking craft out of the church hall and into the sitting rooms of hipsters and fashionistas”.  It’s trendy and it’s good for your mind – what’s not to love?

The projects begin with a “recipe” of essentials needed for making, meaning they are perfect for beginners. This is a thorough materials list meaning the reader is able to prepare for the crafts and ensure they have everything they may need to tackle each project. The style of these pages are well thought-out and inspiring.

Content

Simple sewn projects are divided into sections, some for the home, some for personal use and some for children.  Following the sewing patterns, there is a wealth of embroidery patterns to embellish your projects. There is a style and design for everyone.

The staging of the projects and the overall style of the book are appealing; small drawings are merged with images of the final outcomes, so we can observe the whole process.

What is special about this book?

The projects are great for gift-giving and for those with and without kids.  One design I was particularly drawn to was the Embroidered Peg Bag.  It’s easy to sew and the embroidery is bold. It’s always special to pay extra attention to practical objects – just because it’s used for hanging out the washing doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be stylish! 

Other fun projects include:

My favourite section has to be “Children’s Keepsake Samplers”. You see children’s drawings on fridges, in frames, even engraved on necklaces, but have you ever seen them embroidered?  I think it shows real appreciation for your chidrens artwork when their drawings are forever captured in stitch.

Conclusion

Little Sew & Sew by Christine Leech is a worthwhile read; perfect for those looking for a fresh perspective on embroidery and those looking to engage with a new craft for therapeutic and stylish benefits. 

Little Sew & Sew: Over 30 Delightfully Simple Sewing and Embroidery Projects by Christine Leech is published by Quadrille