The needle arts are traditionally associated with the decorative, domestic, and feminine. Stitching the Self sets out to expand this narrow view, demonstrating how needlework has emerged as an art form through which both objects and identities – social, political, and often non-conformist – are crafted. Bringing together the work of ten art and craft historians, this illustrated collection focuses on the interplay between craft and artistry, amateurism and professionalism, and re-evaluates ideas of gendered production between 1850 and the present. From quilting in settler Canada to the embroidery of suffragist banners and the needlework of the Bloomsbury Group, it reveals how needlework is a transformative process – one which is used to express political ideas, forge professional relationships, and document shifting identities. With a range of methodological approaches, including object-based, feminist, and historical analyses, Stitching the Self examines individual and communal involvement in a range of textile practices. Exploring how stitching shapes both self and world, the book recognizes the needle as a powerful tool in the fight for self-expression.

From the author of the successful and provocative Feminist Cross-Stitch comes a new collection of 40 patterns to help you practice self-care. Crafters will love this snarky book with its 40 witty cross-stitch patterns that focus on promoting a healthy, self-affirming relationship with yourself. Whether you want to proudly announce that “Self-Care Is Not Selfish” or remind others that “You Are More Than Your Productivity” or “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay,” you’ll find edgy slogans and sharp one-liners that make fabulous wall art or gifts. An illustrated basics section provides beginners with information on materials, tools, techniques, and framing finished pieces.

It is impossible to have good designs without having accurate quality construction skills. Professional Sewing Techniques for Designers is an up-to-date sewing guide that teaches fashion design students the skills they will need to execute their original designs in a professional environment. Each chapter covers a particular theme, such as collars, and reflects the order of assembly of any garment. More than 1,000 detailed and annotated sketches provide visual support to the techniques covered. New to this Edition: New Chapter 5 "Stitching Knits: Working with Stretch" and Chapter 7 "Fitting: Developing an 'Eye' for Good Fit" New chapter order reflects the stitching order of garments

This is the only sewing book you'll ever need. Every tool and every technique you require for making your own home furnishings or clothing is closely and sharply photographed, carefully annotated, and clearly explained. The Tools section begins with the basic toolkit, opening up into everything you could possibly need - every type of cutting tool and machine foot is shown. This section also includes information on patterns - how to measure, how to use, and how to adjust them. Gallery spreads appear throughout the substantial Techniques section and showcase darts, zips, pleats etc, as well as showing key stitches. Plus, you can bring your acquired and refined skills to fruition as you make some of the 25 home decor and clothing projects at the back of the book. With The Sewing Book on your shelf, you've got every sewing question covered.

This is your complete guide to sewing absolutely everything, from altering clothes to home decor. Master every sewing technique in the book! Fully illustrated and easy to use, this sewing book covers all the essential skills and techniques for successful hand and machine-sewing. It's a must-have for beginners and expert stitchers alike. Comprehensive step-by-step instructions cover everything from cutting out patterns to making sleeves and stitching hems. Accompanied by close-up photographs, clear instructions, and a glossary of sewing terminology to demystify even the trickiest technique. This book will help you advance from a sewing learner to a seasoned stitcher in no time. All the techniques and projects are graded by difficulty level, from the simple and straightforward to the more complex and challenging ones. There are 10 new, stylish projects to help you put into practice what you've learned. Explore in-depth descriptions on more than 100 tools, 250 techniques, and browse an updated visual directory of more than 50 fabrics. From basic sewing kits and cutting tools, to measuring tools and marking aids, this book will also help you get properly kitted out! Zoomed-in photographs of hand and machine tools show you the best equipment for the job and teaches you exactly how to use it. A Stitch in Time There have been over 375,000 copies sold worldwide, making this is the ultimate sewing book! We will guide you through every hand stitch, machine stitch, and sewing technique you'll ever need. We've included the best way to seam and hem, and put in linings, fasteners, darts, pleats, and pockets, and how to create necklines, collars, and sleeves, so you can make your favourite bespoke outfits. Inside the pages of this sewing guide, you'll find: - Up-to-date techniques to help you master the art of sewing and develop your stitching skills. - How to choose and use today's sewing equipment, fabrics, and paper patterns. - 10 new projects for stylish homeware and clothing. - Step-by-step photographs and easy-to-follow instructions.