Sewing School ® 2

September 1, 2013

This sequel to Sewing School focuses on teaching children and preteens how to use a sewing machine to create fun and quirky projects. The kid-friendly ideas included here are easy to cut and sew, making them virtually frustration proof, and the samples pictured use colorful and whimsical fabrics that will attract children. Each project lists step-by-step instructions complemented by photographs that clearly depict how each step should look. Additionally, there are plenty of images of children sewing (mostly girls, though there are a few boys mixed in), along with advice from young sewists. VERDICT While children are the target audience, adult beginners may appreciate the pleasant tone and accessible projects. Grown-ups will find as well many useful tips for helping young people who are interested in sewing. Readers may also enjoy Sara Trail's Sew with Sara: PJs, Pillows, Bags &More; Fun Stuff To Keep, Give, Sell!

Copyright 2013 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

December 1, 2013

Gr 3-8-A sequel to Sewing School (Storey, 2010), which focused on hand stitching, this visually appealing title carries those skills over to machine sewing. It covers the basics: machine and fabric anatomy and selection, supplies needed, project preparation, and safety practices. Readers are guided step-by-step in the creation of 20 projects, with patterns enclosed in a pocket at the back. The projects have been tested by children within the book's targeted age range; are logically arranged, garnering more stars as their complexity increases; and draw on skill sets that have been previously covered. Clear, high-quality photographs and concise directions coincide with each step, while sidebars contain ideas for personalizing projects with embellishments. One chapter is devoted to correcting mistakes; hand-stitching skills needed in finishing up are contained in another. Information on creating a sewing group and a useful resource guide are included. Highlighting the many benefits acquired through learning to sew, this volume will serve adults as well as children. As a beginner's guide, it is first-rate and even encourages readers to expand their repertoire with the inclusion of more challenging techniques such as patchwork, drawstrings, and zippers. It is wonderfully designed and an ideal purchase for beginners, though its pattern pocket and spiral binding might not be best suited for heavy circulation.-Rebecca Gueorguiev, New York Public Library

Copyright 2013 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.