Sewing books are a fantastic resource for us makers, sitting on our shelves happily until the time is needed. I often get them down when I’m not sure what to make and have a look through for inspiration. They are also wonderful gifts… we all know what is just around the corner!
We thought it would be useful to have a list of the best sewing books on the market so that you can read them whenever you want and choose your favorite. Whatever your level of sewing, there’s a book here to suit you and we hope you find something you love. we have included books in which you draw the patterns yourself, as well as including patterns. there are also a couple of fantastic reference books for those sewing nerds among us.
You are reading: Sewing books with patterns
tilly and the buttons:
If you have someone who is fairly new to sewing, then a cash register and button book are a must. all patterns are included in the books and are geared towards the beginner. his books include very clear instructions and walk you through simple projects. The book Keep It Simple is her latest and is designed around sewing for the time poor. the simple projects tell you how long it will take to make and it has some lovely patterns included. the second book called stretch is perfect for those who want to sew with knits/jersey fabrics. Her first book, Love at First Stitch, comes with simple patterns with a 60’s twist to the shapes.
break the pattern: a modern way of sewing
Purchased by the dynamic duo who own the independent pattern company called clothing. This fantastic book comes with x10 included sewing patterns and variations on each one. they are known for their simple paired back aesthetic and this book is no exception. there are projects there for the confident beginner to the most advanced. if you wanted to see a little more and inside the book, we did a review when it came out.
the manufacturer’s workshop: the essential collection sewing with style
frances, who runs the fabulous independent pattern company, the creators’ workshop, created this fantastic book. it has eight patterns included in the book but with the variations there are 30 different looks you can do. all designs feature her simple aesthetic paired across the back. trust me, you won’t be disappointed! if you want to see a little more, we did a review of the book when it was released.
draping: the whole course
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If you have someone who loves pattern cutting or is interested in learning more, this is the most fantastic book. Written by fashion designer Karolyn Kiisel, this book aims to teach her everything she needs to know about drawing her own patterns on the stand. It’s quite expensive, but as soon as you open it you realize why. The book is huge and packed with information. I really liked that there were qr codes throughout the book with the corresponding videos to follow the steps in the book. we did a pretty extensive review, so if you wanted a deep dive before committing, check it out.
how to start sewing: sewing techniques with combined patterns
In my opinion, everyone who makes their own clothes should have this book. I can not recommend it highly enough. it is essentially a reference book for sewing techniques. It has illustrated diagrams with step-by-step instructions on everything from simple stitching to cuffing a shirt. the beginning part of the book introduces sewing basics, how to read sewing patterns, where the darts go, pressing, etc.
the series of magical patterns:
If you don’t know the wonderful books of Tomoko Nakamichi, you are in for a surprise. The entire series takes pattern cutting to a new level, if I ever feel uninspired I’ll look at one. There are a number of projects in each book and they show you how to create these amazing fabric shapes with illustrated instructions. in terms of skill level i would say these books are for an intermediate and above maker. but I will say that they are so inspiring that whatever your level of sewing, you will love them as they make you think outside the box. start with the first one and then, like me, you’ll probably buy them all!
style without limits: a sewing pattern workbook to mix and match
This is such a witty book designed by Kristiann Boos, who also runs the fabulous independent pattern company, Victoria Patterns. the concept of the book is that all the pattern pieces are interchangeable so you can create your own look (there are 15 in all). the patterns come on a cd at the end of the book along with lots of help and instructions. there’s a vintage feel to the pattern shapes in the book and it’s perfect for some looking to get more familiar with creating their own looks.
wendy’s room:
wendy worked as a fashion designer for many years and then started teaching people how to cut and sew patterns. these two skills make her a fantastic book writer. she knows the general fit problems people have with patterns and gives you the skills to make the changes yourself. For someone who’s done a few things but wants to learn more about fitting, I highly recommend Sewing Basics for Every Body (her latest book of hers). each pattern comes with variations that you cut yourself and the way it’s written really demystifies. making simple adjustments to the patterns. Hers three other books of hers ‘A Beginner’s Guide to Knitting’ does what she says on the tin and comes highly recommended too. if you don’t have enough, there’s also a “beginner’s guide to making skirts”.
the mood guide to fabric and fashion: the essential guide to the world’s most famous fabric store
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I feel like humor fabric shop needs no introduction! But if you don’t have a head for them, they are an iconic fabric store in New York. they have such a vast collection of fabrics that many find the place totally overwhelming! it makes sense for them to publish a book on cloth. if you can’t tell your rayon from your viscose (…gotcha?!), then this book is for you. it is very useful to have on the shelves to look for fabrics that you do not know.
fabric for fashion: the complete guide: natural and synthetic fibers
if you looked at the humor fabric book but wanted something more technical, this book is it. the ultimate sourcebook describing the behavior and properties of all tissues. It’s not light reading by any means, but it is very detailed.
the great british sewing bee books:
If you loved seeing the sewing bee this year (I know us too), then the follow-up book in the series would make a lovely gift. the book introduces a large part of the patterns used for technical challenges. once you’ve devoured the first one, why not go back and read the rest of the previous series?
sew your own sportswear: create a unique sports wardrobe from four basic sewing blocks
Ever wanted to take on the challenge of sewing sportswear? Melissa, who runs the independent pattern company Fehr Trade, shows you how to create 13 different looks. you get four basic blocks and then create your patterns from this, so it’s good if you fancy trying pattern cutting. we did a book review if you wanted to see the styles included in the book.
the little sewing book
the perfect filler for stockings! This beautiful book written by Karen Ball is like reading a hug, full of beautiful anecdotes, tips and sewing curiosities. It will cheer anyone up and is a joy to read.
upcoming releases:
There are some really fantastic sewing pattern books coming to our shelves next year. you can reserve them now so they’ll arrive in your inbox when they’re released.
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