The Liberty Book of Simple Sewing

The Liberty Book of Simple Sewing by Christine Leech and Lucinda Ganderton At Mr X Stitch we love to review textile art and embroidery books for you. There are so many great books to discover, packed with needlework inspiration and textile techniques, so we dive into each book to find out what's good, what's bad and let you know why you should pick it up. The Liberty Book of Simple Sewing by Lucinda Ganderton and Christine Leech shows you how to use Liberty fabrics to create a wide range of home furnishings and textile items. It is packed with helpful instructions and inspirational ideas. About The Authors Christine Leech has written many a book, covering felt goods to Alice in Wonderland. Lucinda Ganderton is a talented and highly successful writer, designer and stylist. Having studied Fine Art Textiles at Goldsmiths College, London, she then worked as a producer and art director in video and TV production. Between them they have lots to offer. Who Is The Book Aimed At? The introduction covers this, giving the statement that 'Sewing really doesn't need to be complicated'. It then goes on to back this up with project examples which are suitable for all ages and abilities. Time and a lack of it is a general problem which all who love to create know well. Projects which are said to 'only take an afternoon' are juxtaposed those with a slightly longer estimated timescale, so really there is no excuse. As expected, this book is solely based around Liberty Print fabrics, thus you've got to love em to but this book! However it is a great "turn to" book for ideas; making a great excuse to buy the fabric for a definite reason! From personal experience, a love of Liberty has been inculcated in me from being very young; with my mother making her own dresses out of the fabric - yet anyone at any age can appreciate the art of these recognisable patterns. Content Before we get into the "making", we are given detailed instructions, based on the projects content. This is a life saver for those with less sewing knowledge, or those who simply need a reminder. This volume is made up of 25 projects, those which will appeal to children, dog lovers and interior designers...the list goes on. Photography The stylisation of the book is somewhat beautiful. Within each of the project instructions, we are helped to visualise the finished outcome. Each one has been staged in an individual setting, appropriate to the object. For example this cloud cushion has been placed in an envy worthy lounge.... Images help us visualise the finished object. Unusual Projects Okay, so we have all seen the cushion covers and the bunting....but how about a Cafetiere cover?! Frivolous or fun? It would certainly make an unusual gift! What Makes It Special? Monogramming and such like are on trend right now, as are letters posed around the home to spell out a word. Liberty have created a version unique to themselves: As you can see, the diagrams work along with the imagery and text to guide us through each project. What Is Wrong With The Book? It goes without saying that you've got to love pattern and fabric and a certain type at that; so if the fun and floral isn't your thing, then you won't feel as inspired. The imagery sets us up to imagine the objects in their "place"; this may seem unachievable to some; yet its pretty cover makes a good coffee table decoration. Conclusion For those who have had some link with Liberty fabrics in the past, this book proves a nostalgic and celebratory volume. It juxtaposes the practical with the quirky and while the Liberty print fabric is the main feature, the projects themselves could feature any fabric which takes your fancy. Find your copy here....