Clear, easy-to-follow instructions about techniques, tools, materials and machinery Written by an experienced teacher, including a broad range of illustrated examples to make sure the book is suitable for beginners as well as those looking for a handy reference guide A significant and growing number of people are taking up sewing for themselves and their own families and friends Books in this new 'Practical' series are proving very popular, with more illustrations and a larger format making them easy to follow and accessible. Encourages creativity and experimentation

Ruth Sleigh-Johnson lives in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex and is a mother of three. She has worked as a freelance stylist and fashion editor for magazines, catalogues and TV and radio items. She has lectured at colleges including London College of Fashion, and currently teaches art and textiles at a girls' grammar school. She is the author of Practical Textiles Techniques.

GETTING STARTEDSewing by hand to make and mend, handsewing buttons, hems, mending, etc.How to become a confident machinist - setting up your machine - sewing in a straight line - going round corners - getting curves right. Choosing and caring for fabric.CONSTRUCTIONStitches: temporary joining, neatening, decorative; Seams: French, flat, raw-edged; Fastenings: zips, buttonholes, hooks and loops; Hems: by machine, by handDARTS GATHERS TUCKS and PLEATSLININGS INTERFACINGS and FACINGSDESIGN DETAILS Sleeves, collars and cuffs, pocketsFINISHING TOUCHES Binding and piping, frills, smocking, roleau hoops and rosettesMAKING Start to finish in sixty minutes. Skirts: A-line, dirndl, and circle; Dresses: shift, kaftan and empire; Tops: T-shirt, blouse and vest; Cushions: pillowslips, bags and tablelinen