Stylehacking, Sew a Creative Wardrobe: Use 5 Favorite Garments for Limitless Possibilities

Gah! This book is amazing. I sew a lot, almost everything I wear. But when it comes down to it, I still reach for that favorite store bought t-shirt, jeans, pull-over. So I tried to copy my favorite jeggings in an updated color and fit- it actually worked perfectly on the first try. I combined the instructions for leggings and trousers, just trace around the favorite pair using her fold over method (no need to tear apart seams), cut out of paper. I really just eye-balled approximate seam allowance and drew roughly with a piece of chalk onto new fabric. I have never done this. Didn't even muslin to test fit or anything. Her instructions to sew trousers are super fast and easy, no stress. I think you could actually just trace around your favorite pair using the method she has on her blog without even cutting a pattern first.It makes so much sense, why fuss over adapting patterns with fiddly bits to your measurements when it is actually cheaper to just find ready to wear clothes that fit you perfectly and go from there. Very excited to try the other designs in the book. This book really simplifies the whole process for me. The diagrams do a lot of work. I think it will be easier if you are a bit fearless and creative and hate extra steps. I have heard of grandmas back in the day just tracing out patterns, free hand to clothe their brood. Now I really get how they did it. All the other techniques over complicate how people have sewn for centuries, use your own clothes to make patterns and go from there.

Coming from a family of seamstresses, I have been wanting to learn how to sew for DECADES but I was always very intimidated by the pins, patterns and the measuring. Yikes! I used to percolate in the outfits that my mother would make for me in grade school (from scratch- no pattern). They were my most cherished items in my wardrobe at the time. I felt so special in my unique lil outfit sewed together with love. This book with be my tool against my insecurities. I ordered a few other "sewing for beginners books" - I honestly can say - this is the only book that I am going to need. The author is so clear and with each page - gives you the tools and confidence to make your own magic! Wonderful tips for a newby like myself... This books is my new best friend - seriously - I've been looking for a book like this for a long long time! My Mom can't wait to see what I make first! Thank you thank you thank you!

There are excellent how-to-books out there on sewing which will help with different techniques and how to sew in general, however I really liked the creative spark this book gave me.The author brings a fresh perspective on sewing basic patterns and shows exactly how to copy favorite tops, pants, dresses, etc. that you may already have and like wearing. This alone will save you a ton of money since patterns nowadays are so incredibly expensive. Furthermore, you're copying items that already fit you well and that you would like to replicate. Her methods and techniques are simple to copy and will encourage you to think about what new outfits you'd like to sew. The only negative I can find about this book is some of the outfits shown are not to my taste in general, however that is just a personal preference and should not get in the way of your reading it. In general, I loved this inspirational book and would highly recommend it if you need a creative spark to get you going on your sewing adventures!

This is a great book. It’s for beginners and those more experienced. Using existing clothes as templates is such a good idea and guarantees that the clothes will fit and suit you, so boosts confidence straight away. In fact it's the way I learned to sew years ago. Only downside is that page 49 is missing and page 47 is duplicated, but this will be sorted quickly I hope on next reprint?

I haven't actually tried any of the patterns yet but I've read through the whole book and really like the concept. Can't wait to try this method and make some styles.