Book Review: Sew U: The Built by Wendy Guide to Making Your Own Wardrobe by Wendy Mullin

By Sandy Amazeen Aug 27, 2006, 23:57 GMT

Sewing is back! In the tradition of Stitch N\' Bitch, Sew U, by downtown fashion darling Wendy Mullin, is the first truly cool sewing guide that comes complete with three full Simplicity( patterns. A fun, accessible D.I.Y. sewing guide for hip chicks and budding designers everywhere! ...more

If you are tired of cheap clothing that falls apart after three washings and dream of making your own fashion statements but don’t know how, look no further then this latest in a series by designer/business owner Wendy Mullin. Starting with the tools of the trade, shopping for a sewing machine, types of fabric and it’s preparation, this approachable book moves on to taking accurate the body measurements necessary to determine proper pattern size and pattern preparation. Chock full of helpful information on everything from determining proper machine tension to using the correct presser foot, seam finishes to sewing buttons, the beginning seamstress has all the information needed to begin sewing a simple skirt pattern before tackling more challenging designs.

Included in the  book is a multi-sized skirt, shirt and pant pattern from Wendy’s collection, each covered by their own chapter that thoroughly explores the garment construction in a clear, step-by-step format before moving on to embellishment and personalization essentials. The covered spiral binding allows the book to lie flat, a definite plus when trying to follow a set of instructions. Although written primarily for the beginner, experienced sewers will discover a wealth of useful tips in this chatty addition to the sewing room.