Teach Yourself Visually Sewing Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I credit this book with teaching me not only to sew, but in helping me recognize that I am a visual learner. Previous to finding this jewel I had read other sewing books, many highly recommended, and felt only frustration and confusion by the terminology (even in so-called "beginner" books.) For instance, I read the description/meaning of "selvedge" over and over, but it didn't actually click for me until I had this book. Here a simple glance at a photo told me everything I needed to know to identify WHAT the heck it was so I could get on with the actual sewing. No more wasting hours trying to decipher text on how to position fabric for a particular action, once again clear and large photos clarify the matter. I refer to this book constantly and I find it's well-organized, with a complete index.
If you find yourself stumped or frustrated by other "beginner" books, you may find that you comprehend and learn far faster from a tutorial with lots of photographs (step by step demonstrations) than endless paragraphs of text. I know it works for me and I have several wonderful completed projects now to show for it. I even added some "advanced" touches to my beginner projects thanks to this helpful guide. Kudos to Ms. Colgrove and the publisher for recognizing that visual learners need different tools.

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If you're tired of items that just fit so-so—sew, sew! This guide will have you expressing your personal in no time. You'll learn the basics of hand sewing and sewing with a machine and get detailed information about tools and fabrics. From there, you'll progress to sewing seams, darts, facings, zippers, fasteners, and more. You'll learn to use patterns and try your hand (and your sewing machine) on warm-up projects like a tote bag or a baby receiving blanket. Then it's on to more creative designs like a stylish messenger bag and fun, flanged pillow shams. If you learn by seeing and doing and want to create chic, unique accessories and home décor, this book is a perfect fit!

Concise two-page lessons show you all the steps to a skill and are ideal for quick review
Each skill or technique is defined and described
Detailed color photos demonstrate each step
Step-by-step instructions accompany each photo
Helpful tips provide additional guidance

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Sew with Confidence: A Beginner's Guide to Basic Sewing Review

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(More customer reviews)This is a very good book for beginner sewers. Its easy to
understand and gives good tips for todays' sewing fabrics and
machines. I thoughly enjoyed reading it. It has easy to
understand diagrams and pictures.

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Beginning or aspiring sewers will learn the skills they need and gain confidence in their work with this helpful guide! Sew With Confidence teaches basic sewing skills and then moves on to explain more complex techniques, encouraging readers to take their skills to the next level with more involved projects. The book includes information on materials and tools needed to get started, sewing and serger machines, organizing the sewing area, patterns, fabrics and more. The easy to follow instructions and step-by-step photos and illustrations will ensure success for novices, as well as inspire confidence. Anyone who wants to learn the basics of sewing will want this straightforward guide to the craft.

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SINGER 2932 Sewing Machine Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I haven't been overly impressed with this machine. Unless you have a death grip on the starting threads, they will be pulled into the machine and lock it up. I found the foot patel very difficult to get use to. When I press down and it either sounds like the machine is having trouble starting up or goes 90mph and is hard to control. I've given it almost a month and just can't take it anymore. I'm taking this machine back tonight.

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The SINGER 2932 sewing machine is a workhorse that will make any project a breeze. A basic sewing machine with all the right added features to create any project you can imagine. Features like drop feed for free motion sewing, adjustable stitch length control and automatic needle threader make taking a project from start to finish as easy as 1-2-3. It also features 35 stitch patterns with a fully automatic 1-step buttonhole, adjustable stitch width and length, adjustable presser foot pressure, 4 presser Feet (zigzag/all purpose, button sewing, buttonhole, zipper) and more in the free arm on board storage compartment. In instruction manual and power cord (73-inch long) are also included.

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Singer 1409 Promise Sewing Machine Review

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(More customer reviews)I bought this at target during thanksgiving 2010 for $59.99. I had my friend try out as she is more experienced in sewing. She said this was a good basic machine for my purposes which would be simple projects not requiring any fancy stitches.It has all the basic stitces and a zipper foot, a buttonhole foot, darning plate etc.
I tried out all the stitches and the stitch quality is good so far. I am going to keep this one.
If anything goes wrong I will post a review!

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The 1409 SINGER Promise sewing machine includes all the basic features you need to create almost any project. Basic and decorative stitches include an automatic buttonhole, easy stitch selection with adjustable stitch length and the included darning plate allows your imagination to run wild and become reality. Simple machine threading and an automatic bobbin winder make set up a breeze. A reverse lever is right at your finger tips for automatic stitch locking. Four included presser feet (general/all purpose, buttonhole, button sewing and zipper) are easily accessible in the accessory storage drawer that can be removed to create a free arm for stitching in hard-to-reach areas. Stitches include buttonhole, straight, zig zag, blind hems, rick rack, scallop, and rampart.

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Brother 59-Stitch Sewing Machine - Xl2600 Review

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(More customer reviews)I ended up buying this at walmart. it was 114$ plus tax. It seems to sew very good and has alot of neat features that i havent even attemted to use yet. It is easy to thread and has an automatic needle threader (I have never used one and was suprised at how easy it was to use).

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This little 8 pound wonder is simply amazing - as a sewing machine, that is. Brother is one of the leading manufacturers of consumer sewing machines. Once a staple appliance in nearly everyone's home, the sewing machine was gradually replaced by neighborhood tailors. In recent years, however, there's been a creative return to making and tailoring clothes at home. The Brother XL-2600 has features that your parents and grandparents could barely fantasize about. From automatic buttonholes, a veritable menu of exciting stitches, to free arm sewing (for easily hemming pants, sleeves, and skirts), the XL-2600 will become one of the most prominent appliances in your home. Whether art or necessity, this compact, sewing machine is for you.Drop-in bobbin Automatic bobbin winding system Quilting features included Stitch width and length control Dial thread tension control Electronic speed control Variable needle position Twin needle for decorative stitching Forward and reverse sewing Built-in stitches for garment construction, decorative sewing and quilting Free arm/flatbed convertible sewing surface Built-in accessory storage Accessories included for quilting, zipper insertion, darning, buttonholes and button sewing Quick change presser feet Built-in thread cutter Built-in light illuminates the sewing area Safety power and light switch Lightweight with built-in handle for portability Bilingual instructions (English/Spanish) 25-year limited warranty Unit Dimensions -15.4L x 6.7D x 11.4H / Weight -11 lbs

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Janome Resin Extension Table (1600) Series By The Each Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This is an excellent table. It fits my Janome sewing machine really well as part of it flips up to allow me access to my bobbin. Much better than the average extension table. Would recommend highly to anyone with a Janome sewing machine.

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A 16 x 24 extension table with fold down legs. Fits 1600 Professional Series machines.

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Janome DC5100 Computerized Sewing Machine Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I have the Kenmore version of this machine. I like it a lot! I did have a $150 repair, but it was probably my fault due to lack of maintenance. It has great features and is a little work horse. (BTW, the Kenmore is nearly 50% lower cost.)

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Features of the NEW Janome DC5100 Mechanical Machine
167 built-in stitches including Alphabet
5 one-step buttonhole
Automatic thread tension control
Built-in needle threader
Snap-on presser feet
Memorize Needle up/down button
Superior feed system (SFS)
7-piece feed dog
Locking Stitch button
Speed control slider
Easy Reverse button
Memory up to 50 patterns
Auto-declutch bobbin winder
Extra high presser foot lift
Backlit LCD screen with touchpad for easy navigation
Horizontal full rotary bobbin system
7mm maximum stitch width
5mm maximum stitch length
Hard cover included

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Janome DC2011 Review

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(More customer reviews)I have used several machines recently trying to find one to fit my needs. I'm not an experienced seamstress, but I've been plagued by less than adequate machines. Problems with tension, feed systems, bobbin threading, enough to make your sewing project frustrating.
From the box, this is an easy set up. Learning to thread the needle and wind the bobbin took less than 10 min. The Manual is very detailed and easy to follow. Take the extra time to read through the manual especially if you are new to sewing, it tells you which pressure foot to use with what fabric, it tells you about the stitches and which fabrics they are best for. This is easy enough to understand for a beginner.
First go at a straight stitch I had a perfectly straight line without touching the fabric. The decorative stitches are beautiful and with the lock stitch function easy to give a professional finish to.
I highly recommend this machine!

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The DC2011 is a great sewing machine for any level of sewer and quilter. This machine has 50 built in stitches, is very easy to operate, and will sew through the thickest fabrics or the finest sheers without any tension worries. The heavy duty DC motor is designed to sew over thick seams (such as denim seams) with no hesitation. The DC 2010 has top-line features such as needle stop up/down, tie-off functions, speed control and a built-in needle threader! Included with this machine are the following:Carrying case, instruction book, power cord, foot control, 1/4" seam foot, walking foot, zipper foot, fancy stitch foot, quilting guide, blind hem foot, buttonhole foot, vertical spool pin, screwdriver tool, bobbins, lint brush, seam ripper and spool caps.Phone support is included free to buyers via our toll-free number.

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Portable Mini 2-speed Sewing Machine with 100 Piece Kit Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This is a great sewing machine which was surprising considering how mini the thing is. I would say its a good purchase for a beginner (gift idea for children?) or for someone with sewing experience that needs something portable (battery operated).
The only negative thing I can say is that it won't do really thick materials because it won't fit under the arm. But since I didn't expect that considering the cost, I won't let it affect the 5-star rating.

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Providing perfect stitch control, this mini sewing machine comes in handy for anything from silk to denim. The machine's user-friendly design offers a top drop-in bobbin for easy threading, automatic thread rewind, a simple on/off control button, and an over-sized button for setting the speed from low to high. Choose either the hand switch or the included foot pedal to start. The unit makes a nice gift for any craft enthusiast, novice or on-the-go sewer, or college student with an eye for fashion. Comes with a bonus 100-piece Sewing Kit. The mini sewing machine uses DC 6-volt power and measures approximately 7-2/3 by 4-1/2 by 8-2/7 inches.

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Brother Sewing Machine LS2000 Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bought my machine from [...]. [...] has the machine for $55.00. The machine stitches good but the only stitch function that it has is 3 needle positions.
They tell you that the machine can do more but only if you do most of the work. The blind hem stitch is a joke and the button hole isn't much better. Brother has better machines for about $70 or $80. I wish I would have waited. I like the flowers though.

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The Brother LS2000 Sewing Machine is an easy-to-use, full-size sewing machine with 20 stitch functions. It features an easy automatic bobbin winding system, three-needle position selector and variable stitch width and length control. Great for everything from making clothing to decorative stitches.Brother LS2000 Sewing Machine:Full size sewing machine20 stitch functionsBuilt-in free arm for sewing cuffs and sleevesEasy automatic bobbin winding system3-Needle position selectorVariable stitch width and length controlBuilt-in accessory storageInstructional DVD includedInstruction manual also includedFull assortment of accessoriesStitch functions available for garment construction, decorative stitches, quilting stitches and heirloom stitches

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Factory-Reconditioned Singer 2263.RF Simple 23-Stitch Mechanical Sewing Machine Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Bottom line, DO NOT PURCHASE SINGER MACHINES!!! This was given as a gift and it jams ALL the time!! I've done every adjustment suggested by singer and from experienced users. All have said that the new singers have so many problems, especially with jamming. We have yet to sew anything since we opened up the box, just google singer 2263 problems and you'll see for yourself... At the end of the day they should rename the company to wannabe singer. Truth of the matter is Singer went bankrupt and sold the company. So it's NOT the old school respectable and well built Singer our parents and grandparents grew up with. Below are some of the reviews on Walmarts site...
"this machine sews fine for about 3 inches until ALL OF A SUDDEN the fabric balls up underneath the fabric and the machine completely stops. I've tried pretty much everything and can't figure out how to make it work. i think it's the tension... but i thought this was a machine for BEGINNERS! i think it just wasn't built right because you can tell from looking at it that the parts don't align quite right.
this is NOT a machine for beginners... but from reading other reviews, it seems like even expert seamstresses can't fix the problem!"
"I bought this as a beginner sweing machine to learn to make a few summer dresses for my daughter. It worked fine the first day, and since then I have had nothing but problems. I have spent 2 days on this stupid machine trying to fix the tension and nothing works. PIECE.OF.JUNK. I wish I would have read the reviews first before impulse buying this Singer. If I could give this machine negative stars, I would. Now... To package it up and TAKE IT BACK!"
"UNBELIEVABLE!!
It looked good in the store and I have used Singer machines since the 1950s! I sew a lot and was trained by a master seamstress.
This machine tangled the threads and jammed within 2 hours out of the box. I had read the manual cover-to-cover and used the "trouble-shooting" page to try to fix it. then I thought, "WHY?!!" It wouldn't sew straight any more and had threads balled up under the fabric. Yuck! It is going back this afternoon!"
...and the comment continue on the link below
[...]
DO NOT BUY!!

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This is a factory reconditioned sewing machine. Reconditioned generally means that the sewing machine has been returned to the manufacturer, who brings the sewing machine back to like new condition. Some sewing machines may contain cosmetic blemishes. Includes (1) All Purpose Foot, (1) Buttonhole Foot, (1) Button Sewing Foot, (1) Zipper Foot, Needles, Bobbins, (1) Screwdriver - Large, Lint Brush-Seam Ripper, Oil Bottle, Darning Plate, Thread Spool Cap Holders, (2) Spool Caps - Small and Large, Instruction Manual

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Brother XL2610 Free-Arm Sewing Machine with 25 Built-In Stitches and 59 Stitch Functions Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I just bought this sewing machine about three weeks ago. I got it as a replacement for a Bernette that I used for about thirty minutes total that the repair man could not figure out how to fix. I am working on my fashion certificate and needed one right away. I picked this one partially because it was PINK!
This machine is easy to use - bobbin winding, changing stitches, portability, two-needle. I like a mechanical machine. I have not tried the buttonholer yet. A great first machine! This is my fourth. I like the reverse, the freearm, the size.
Petty annoyance - the presser foot is low when up, so when you need to know where your needle is going into the fabric, you have to knock the foot up with your finger so you can see - not a big deal. BIG deal - put the zipper foot on and then you have to adjust the needle width out of the zipper foot groove to get the seam close enough to the zipper, because the foot is wide(???) at the back and on the same level(???) as the foot itself. Maybe I'll just use invisible zippers.
If you are rough with things, do not buy this machine. Many of the parts are plastic, like the presser foot lever. We use that a lot.
I have sewn with many layers of denim, very light fabrics, and much in between with great success. Just change the needle after each project.
I hope I have given you enough information to begin to make an informed decision.



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Perfect for garment construction, craft projects, and basic mending, this versatile sewing machine features 25 built-in stitches, 59 stitch functions, an automatic buttonholer with stitch balance control, and free-arm sewing for shirt sleeves and pant legs. The built-in stitches include quilting stitches, garment-construction stitches, decorative-sewing stitches, stretch stitches, and a blind-hem stitch to make sewing hems a breeze. The unit also provides an automatic needle threader, built-in thread cutter, a quick-set drop-in bobbin system, and an automatic bobbin winding system. Built-in stitch length and width control, as well as an adjustable dial control for thread tension, make it simple to adjust stitches as needed. The included accessories and snap-on presser feet will help with quilting, zipper insertion, darning, buttonholes, and sewing on buttons. Other details include preset needle positions, a built-in light to illuminate the sewing area, a safety power and light switch, and a carrying handle for convenient portability. Accessories include a power cord, foot control, sewing notions, and a user manual. Lightweight and portable, the sewing machine measures 15-2/5 by 6-2/3 by 11-2/5 inches and carries a 25-year limited warranty.

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Singer New Sewing Essentials: Updated and Revised Edition Review

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(More customer reviews)From the cover this book doesn't look like it's going to be impressive, but inside it's a wealth of information. Easy to use with excellent photos of each step and clear instructions, it covers everything you need to know to teach yourself to sew, including pattern usage, basic pattern adjustment, types of closures, etc. Definitely a keeper!

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The number-1 requested sewing book just got better

Ideal for sewing enthusiasts of all skill levels, this book uses photos and clearly written text to demonstrate all the basic sewing techniques needed for sewing clothes and home décor items.

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Complete Photo Guide to Sewing - Revised + Expanded Edition: 1200 Full-Color How-To Photos Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)If you purchase this book, be aware that is was published under another name, "Singer Sewing Step by Step" in the early 90's. I'm glad that I checked it out of the library before purchasing, because I already own the other book...yes, it has some decent photos, but I would be cautious in recommending this to a beginner, as I was when I purchased the older version. Construction techniques are not thoroughly explained, usually only one or two pages of photos are devoted to any one technique (collars, sleeves, etc.). Personally, I was very frustrated by this. One would be better off using this as a complement to another book, such as the Readers Digest guide to sewing or the Vogue sewing book, both of which are excellent resources but lacking in photo illustrations. The book is a bit dated, too, but if you can get past that, it is not too bad.

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The Complete Photo Guide to Sewing – Revised is the one reference every sewer needs. Its 352 pages and 1100 photographs cover every aspect of fashion and décor sewing. Sections include choosing the right tools and notions, using conventional machines and sergers, fashion sewing, tailoring, and home décor projects. Included are step-by-step instructions for basic projects like pillows, tablecloths, and window treatments. Sewers from beginners to the skilled will turn to this book again and again.

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One-Yard Wonders: 101 Sewing Fabric Projects; Look How Much You Can Make with Just One Yard of Fabric Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I really want to like this book, but I'm still on the fence. I'm not new to sewing (I've been sewing for 20+ years and have a degree in fashion design), but I pre-ordered the book hoping to find some *new* ideas for quick, fun, projects.
I don't need instructions to cover a cork board or line a bookcase with fabric. Most of the other projects are the same old thing: aprons, laptop and CD sleeves, laundry bags, a yoga mat bag, a basic bias skirt, placemats, handbags, a sewing machine cover, pet beds and toys, lunch and trash bags. Over 30 (out of 101) of the projects are for children's items (clothing, toys, etc.). There are some fresh ideas though, I love the origami box and a couple of the women's summer tops are cute.
Overall, if you are new to sewing, you'll probably love this book and it would be a great place to start. It has a great section on basic sewing techniques and the book itself is beautifuly photographed and laid out. I like the spiral bindng and I appreciate that it came with pattern pieces for all but the most basic projects.
If you are not new to sewing, don't expect to find many new ideas here. However, it is a great collection of classic projects all in one place and nicely photographed.

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Janome Magnolia 7330 Sewing Machine By The Each Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I love this machine! It sews beautifully! the fact that is has a lot of feet and attachments is awesome! I only had 1 problem... you have to make the bobbin perfect otherwise the machine will "spit" the bobbin out... it was frustrating but I have no other problems with the machine!

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The Magnolia 7330 is the most advanced machine in the Magnolia Line. Perfect for creating any kind of home decor or sewing project it enables you to add your personal flair to your home and wardrobe. You'll get 30 decorative stitches and lots of great automatic features. Incorporating the same Janome precision and technology that goes into all of our machines the Magnolia 7330 helps you define yourself at a great price.FEATURES: 30 stitches including 6 buttonholes Auto-Lock Up/Down needle position buttons Auto-Declutch bobbin winder Stitch number width and length buttons Direct stitch selection buttons Fully Automatic sensor buttonhole Convertible free arm for circular sewing SFS (superior feed system) Built-in needle threader Reverse Stitch button Speed control slider110 volts This machine does not conform to International electronic codes. Warranty is voided outside the US.

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Kenmore Mini Ultra 3/4 Size Sewing Machine with 6 Stitches Plus Buttonhole Review

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(More customer reviews)I received this machine as a gift 7 years ago, and have since sewed everything from cardboard, denim, upholstery fabrics, quilts, paper, etc on it, and it is still chugging along! It's wonderful because it's fairly lightweight and medium sized, so it's easy to transport. It's also very easy to learn on, I taught myself how to use it and had sewed very little previous to using this machine. It has three straight stitches and seven variations of zig-zag stitches, as well as settings for making a buttonhole; new machines have way more settings for different stitches, but I've learned to do a lot of creative things just with this amount. If you are a really serious sewer you may be interested in a fancier machine with more options, but this one is wonderful if you are okay with limited stitch options. Replacements for needles and the light bulb have been easy and inexpensive. I've recently been learning about how to reset the tension, and this has been the first time it's given me any issues. Read the whole manual before you begin using it, it will make you a better sewer and teach you how to take care of your machine so it lasts longer. I would definitely recommend this machine.

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Take advantage of the full-size capabilities in this smaller, compact machine. Includes dust cover, 2 plastic bobbins, buttonhole opener, needle set, spool pin felt, buttonhole foot, darning plate.

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