Book Review + Giveaway: The Sewing Answer Book

Hot Topics:

By nataliezdrieu
Posted July 20th, 2010
Category Sewing

How do I attach a patch pocket? Which hem finishes are best for knit fabrics? Find the answers to these questions and a whole lot more in The Sewing Answer Book by Barbara Weiland Talbert. For a compact portable (It’s so cute!), you will be amazed at how much sewing information is in it. It’s literally a book you can have next to your sewing machine to look up any sort of question you may have in regards to your sewing project. The book is broken up into chapters such as Stitching Basics, Working with Patterns, Shaping to Fit, etc. I like the Needles and Thread chapter which covers in great detail how to choose the right needle for your project and gives the useful tip to start each sewing project with a new needle. I also found out some of the reasons why my needle thread or bobbin thread break during sewing. Most sewing books only graze the surface on this topic. The Sewing Answer Book also features plenty of handy charts and illustrations to help better explain what to do while you sew and how to solve your sewing problems.
Book Giveaway Time!
Three lucky CRAFT readers will win a copy of The Sewing Answer Book. Just tell us why you would like this book in the comments. All comments will be closed by Noon PST on Monday, July 26, 2010. The lucky winners will be chosen randomly and announced later on the site. Good luck!
This giveaway is now closed.

In the Maker Shed

218 Responses to Book Review + Giveaway: The Sewing Answer Book

Mackenzie on July 20th, 2010 at 5:17 pm said:

I have many questions about sewing that need to be answered! Thanks!
Heather Jane on July 20th, 2010 at 5:17 pm said:

Strike!! I need this and I want this and it’s my birthday on Thursday, so come on…
lisa on July 20th, 2010 at 5:28 pm said:

I would love to win this book! I’ve been sewing for 6 years and I am far from an expert. There are always little questions I have about my sewing projects. I think this book would be great for that! And especially since it’s so compact, it can easily be right next to my sewing machine!
Thank you for doing the giveaway!
sy on July 20th, 2010 at 5:29 pm said:

i love the knitting answer book, i’m sure this answer book is great too.
pam on July 20th, 2010 at 5:29 pm said:

I just started sewing my own clothes (so tired of buying stuff that doesn’t fit!) but I always have questions with construction and fit. Please pick me
Becca on July 20th, 2010 at 5:35 pm said:

I am just learning to sew and very excited about it. This would be a perfect addition to my library
dimloep-suum.myopenid.com on July 20th, 2010 at 5:42 pm said:

I’m trying to teach myself how to sew, and this would be an excellent resource to have around!
stephyds on July 20th, 2010 at 5:44 pm said:

i looooooove sewing but i have so much to learn! (plus how cute is that pincushion on the cover??!) thanks guys, love your site!
stephyds
sara on July 20th, 2010 at 5:44 pm said:

This book might just be the thing. I usually just make it up as I go when I sew. I could definitely use some technique work!
magpie.ima.myopenid.com on July 20th, 2010 at 5:45 pm said:

Because I kind of stink at sewing….I need answers!
jumpyjodes on July 20th, 2010 at 5:47 pm said:

please pick me! i need the help- i’m such a noob!
jumpyjodes on July 20th, 2010 at 5:49 pm said:

please pick me! i need the help- i’m such a noob!
Nessa on July 20th, 2010 at 5:50 pm said:

I just want it. I like to sew but I pretty much suck at it. I need all the help I can get.
kat on July 20th, 2010 at 5:52 pm said:

never sewn before though I’ve always wanted to try. Need a push…
Kristen on July 20th, 2010 at 5:52 pm said:

I would love to have this book. It will be a great resource for my many sewing projects running through my head. I finally got a dress form and would love to hit the ground running with it and my sewing machine.
willowwolfe on July 20th, 2010 at 5:54 pm said:

I am a disabled crafter and a pack rat of sorts. I have so many wonderful little (and not so little) lengths of fabric but do not have the skills to create all that my mind envisions! This book could make ALL the difference!
Michele
Stephanie C. on July 20th, 2010 at 5:54 pm said:

I’m still pretty remedial at sewing but wanting to learn more – this would be great for me!
Dora on July 20th, 2010 at 5:54 pm said:

I teach beginning sewing and this would help me answer a lot of questions my students ask. Plus it would be a great book to recommend to them!
msformaldehyde on July 20th, 2010 at 5:55 pm said:

I would love this book to help me sew!!
Eva on July 20th, 2010 at 5:58 pm said:

My mother once pointed out that I had sewn a black button on to a grey coat using bright purple thread. It hadn’t even occurred to me that color was relevant. Although I have learned to sew buttons on using the appropriate color, I am in desperate need of any assistance available.
Thanks.
Eco Warrior on July 20th, 2010 at 5:59 pm said:

This book could save me some embarrassing phone calls to my mother! This way I wouldn’t have to ask her sewing questions that I know I’ve asked her a thousand times before and could talk to her longer about other things, like food. )
pennyinpa on July 20th, 2010 at 5:59 pm said:

I’m beginning to teach my 7 year old to sew, and I think she would listen well to a book “authority”!
sweetpeatx on July 20th, 2010 at 6:00 pm said:

Great book. I’ve been sewing for over 50 years, but am always looking for new techniques and ideas. Thanks.
thecuriomuseum on July 20th, 2010 at 6:00 pm said:

This book would be wonderful because I love to make things—loads of things—all kinds of things—and I tend to resort to fabric glue and duct tape. Even in clothing.
I will never completely abandon fabric glue and duct tape, but there comes a time in every girl’s life…
I would love to know how to make something a little more permanent, an item with roots and all.
sweetpeatx on July 20th, 2010 at 6:01 pm said:

Great book. I’ve been sewing for over 50 years, but I’m always looking for new ideas and techniques. Thanks…
Jean C on July 20th, 2010 at 6:01 pm said:

This book would really help fill in the gaps. I’m an advanced beginner with one class under my belt. So, I have a little bit of knowledge and mostly doing everything via trial and error. This would be a great reference to help fill in the gaps.
Doris on July 20th, 2010 at 6:02 pm said:

I could sure use this book – it would save me alot of time from having to re-do things because I didn’t really know what to do in the first place!
Nadia on July 20th, 2010 at 6:06 pm said:

I love sewing, but everything I make is always so makeshift.
I taught myself to sew through trial and error – with emphasis on error – it would be so wonderful to learn new and proper techniques – and this looks like the perfect book!!
cvillewords.com on July 20th, 2010 at 6:16 pm said:

Oh, it would be so lovely to own this book! I almost always sew from patterns, but they never seem to give enough information to get me through the tricky parts. Having this book by my side would make my needle fly!
Katydid on July 20th, 2010 at 6:17 pm said:

I’m often inspired to do some crazy late night project like sew an old shirt into a dress, then I get halfway into it and realize I have no idea how to do a collar. This book would be a good reference–probably better than searching online and getting distracted by even more projects.
MsCrochetS on July 20th, 2010 at 6:18 pm said:

I have both the crochet & knitting versions of this book, and they’re packed full of info. I’d love to have this one to add to my sewing area. Heaven knows I can use all the sewing help I can get! Handy, cute, and fun…I want one.
jimofoz on July 20th, 2010 at 6:23 pm said:

My wife often asks me sewing questions and I don’t know much about sewing. Help keep the peace by sending me this book.
maffei on July 20th, 2010 at 6:28 pm said:

Omg this is going to be so helpful. I have a cute skirt that I stopped working on because I didn’t understand what I was supposed to do.
Ramona Burke on July 20th, 2010 at 6:31 pm said:

I totally neeeeeeed this book! please.
maptome on July 20th, 2010 at 6:38 pm said:

I need this book. I’m new to sewing and I know NOTHING.
Craftyasiangirl on July 20th, 2010 at 6:41 pm said:

I’m mostly self-taught, so it’d be great to have a reference book around for those times when I get stuck!
Jenn on July 20th, 2010 at 6:42 pm said:

Oooo I would love to have this next to my machine for reference.
cherylp on July 20th, 2010 at 6:42 pm said:

I’d love to be able to stash this book in the top drawer of my sewing table! I’m definitely a beginner when it comes to sewing, but I love it, and looking to get better at it. This book would almost certainly help… sometimes I have a hard time explaining over the phone just what it is exactly I’ve messed up and need to fix to my mom
darah7 on July 20th, 2010 at 6:44 pm said:

i’m trying to make clothes for my kids– like my mom made clothes for me. and. well.
my husband sent me this link. i think he was trying to be helpful and not trying to make a point!
Janna on July 20th, 2010 at 6:45 pm said:

Oh my gosh do I need this book! Now when I sew I actually plan on ripping the first seam out! I don’t think 3 dimensionally is the problem…or something. LOL.
Kreativeblonde on July 20th, 2010 at 6:45 pm said:

I some how missed the ‘sewing gene’. I could have used a book like this when I was making my A-line skirt that turned out to need it’s own zip code! Oh, and the hem? I thought that’d be common sense…measure, cut, sew, done…but noooo, my hem ended up being a curved hem rather than straight. Yep, that’s right, a curved hem. You know, longer in the front and shorter on the sides-not the look I was going for! Oh, and I cut it too short, so I had to add a ruffle-which took 6 tries. By the time I was finished I looked at the pocket and thought, “are you kidding me!? This skirt is SO not getting a pocket”. None of the sewing books really talk about HOW to hem, they just show you how ways you can hem, but not HOW. That would have really helped me and saved me a lot of time. People like me need a book that answers all those other questions that start with: “How the heck do you _______?”
For some it may be common sense, for the rest of us, we just need a little more help.
RemadeRemedies on July 20th, 2010 at 6:49 pm said:

I am a current college student who is trying to make her way through school with an English/Theater double major. I hope to go into costuming for theater and in order to do that I am trying to build up a sewing guidebook library. As an English major I have a huge appreciation for print…Yes, I may be able to find some of the information on the internet but I love being able to page through a book and read text. As a college student money is tight so this would be great…….
littlebluehen.com on July 20th, 2010 at 6:50 pm said:

Solutions and answers to everything? Of course I want this book! It also might help motivate me to sew which I like to do but don’t like to set up.
practicallydomestic on July 20th, 2010 at 6:52 pm said:

I am just learning how to sew and I don’t have anyone close in the family to ask questions to!
Kristen on July 20th, 2010 at 6:52 pm said:

I’m a self taught sewing enthusiast who can always use a little help along the way : )
Thanks for the chance!
Roman on July 20th, 2010 at 6:56 pm said:

I love to sew, and I don’t have all the answers. I would very much like to improve my skills. AND, it WOULD be fun to win something.
kellyknu on July 20th, 2010 at 7:02 pm said:

i would like this book so i can actually finish my sewing projects!
CindyLou on July 20th, 2010 at 7:02 pm said:

Although I should be singing “My Favorite Things,” because sewing is one of my favorite crafts. I’ve gotten away from it for awhile, but I’m itching to get back to it. This little book could give me the jump-start I need to renew my sewing confidence and perhaps to learn a new trick or two! And, if it’s as great as the “Crochet Answer Book,” I’m sure I’ll love it!
sjgill77 on July 20th, 2010 at 7:06 pm said:

my mom is a seamstress. i have not taken the time to learn. i broke my leg in a car accident recently and am unable to do alot. i would love to learn. it would give me something to keep myself busy and maybe i can impress my mom.
stblaize on July 20th, 2010 at 7:14 pm said:

Always looking for books for the sewing co-op where I volunteer. This one looks like a gem.
teresita on July 20th, 2010 at 7:17 pm said:

I would love to get my hands on that book because I love sewing.Great giveaway!
Tlharder on July 20th, 2010 at 7:22 pm said:

I learned how to sew from my mom when I was about 10 or 11. I sewed all through middle school and high school, but didn’t really do any sewing since then. It has been almost 15 years since I finished high school and I am just getting back into sewing. I would love this book to help me as I get back into sewing and try to make projects around the house, but also my own clothes, and do my own alterations.
loulapunk on July 20th, 2010 at 7:27 pm said:

i’d like to win this book because I suck at sewing and I don’t want to suck any more. Also, because I have a little kid that will need lots of costumes in a couple of years and I want to be able to make them for him. Thanks!
Carrie G on July 20th, 2010 at 7:49 pm said:

I don’t really know why I have to follow the pattern exactly, I’m sure there are many good reasons. This book would reign me in and help me follow directions – just like in school!
tracyloopers on July 20th, 2010 at 7:57 pm said:

because my grandmother isn’t here anymore to help and I think I can teach the kids I teach to knit and crochet, to sew…having the right answers
jojoebi.designs on July 20th, 2010 at 8:01 pm said:

type of sewist this book would be really handy, it might keep my 4 year old ‘why,why,why’ son quiet for a while too!
Lora1967 on July 20th, 2010 at 8:02 pm said:

I would like to win this book to help further my sewing skills. i have six children and sonetimes make their clothes and could really use the help
chaarmedone1512(at)aol(dot)com
Lora1967 on July 20th, 2010 at 8:04 pm said:

I would like to win this book to help further my sewing skills. i have six children and sonetimes make their clothes and could really use the help
chaarmedone1512(at)aol(dot)com
Amy on July 20th, 2010 at 8:06 pm said:

Would love to get this book as I am fairly new to sewing.
Funnyfinn on July 20th, 2010 at 8:08 pm said:

I would love this book to solve all my problems… because most of them are sewing related, and if they’re not, they’re related somehow!
thatgrrl on July 20th, 2010 at 8:12 pm said:

I could probably finish sewing projects in half the time if I actually had a source to turn to for answers
veronicanotbetty on July 20th, 2010 at 8:20 pm said:

I have two children. They are three and one, chubby cheeked and wide-eyed, and always looking to their mother for attention and snacks. When mommy gets frustrated because a seam is not going along according to plan these adorable children may have to wait an extra few minutes for their pretzels and games of High Ho Cherry-Oh!
It’s so tragic…
I appeal to you for help – think of them and alleviate my frustrating sewing problems. Give me the cute book.
CinnamonSass on July 20th, 2010 at 8:24 pm said:

I love sewing, but really never got past the novice stage (another ADHD crafter). I have three little ones who love to sew, and it’d be wonderful if they advanced beyond the level I did at their ages.
My 11-year-old daughter has her own sewing machine and this book would be perfect for both of us! I’d be able to teach more to the younger two (a 9-year-old boy and 7-year-old girl) the right way of doing things – and answer their questions accurately!
JamesWife on July 20th, 2010 at 8:27 pm said:

I am a mom of 3 children and have knitted for them for a few years now, I have finally taken the plunge into teaching myself how to sew and there is SOOO much I don’t know! This book would help me make clothes for my kids that look professional.
CinnamonSass on July 20th, 2010 at 8:27 pm said:

We came up with the same ploy
sarahekd on July 20th, 2010 at 8:32 pm said:

I’ve needed a sewing reference book around for when googling my frequent noob issues is inconvenient. This one would be awesome
mentalseamster on July 20th, 2010 at 8:41 pm said:

I’ve been looking for a very comprehensive book like this
pqamyp on July 20th, 2010 at 8:51 pm said:

I am petrified of sewing, but evidently not petrified of purchasing fabric. This book would be a God send!
Cathy C on July 20th, 2010 at 8:52 pm said:

I would love to have this book…it looks like it would be a fantastic reference books to all those sewing questions that I have!
Thanks so much for the giveaway!
Cathy C on July 20th, 2010 at 8:55 pm said:

I would love to have this book…it looks like it would be a fantastic reference books to all those sewing questions that I have!
Thanks so much for the giveaway!
burrillcoffee on July 20th, 2010 at 8:58 pm said:

I have a friend that does not think that she can sew. I really want to give her this book.
familyvolley on July 20th, 2010 at 9:00 pm said:

I have recently fallen in love with sewing again. I was taught when I was young and have dabbled through the years, but now, now I can’t get enough. This would be the perfect book to help refresh my memory.
Bonnie on July 20th, 2010 at 9:00 pm said:

Maybe with this book at hand, I could stop jumping up from my sewing machine to consult the Internets. Not that I don’t need the exercise…
ThreeInaRow on July 20th, 2010 at 9:04 pm said:

i’ve caught the sewing bug in the last year or so, and i know there are many techniques for me to master (and probably correct!) this would a great resource to have on hand!
senzhan on July 20th, 2010 at 9:04 pm said:

I’m just promised to sew a full length staff and bokken carrier for my ninja partner and I have only very rudimentary skills. Help a crafter, help a ninja, make the world a better place.
Cheers,
SZ
melissa on July 20th, 2010 at 9:14 pm said:

i’ve wanted to learn to sew (properly) for ages. and now that i have got a new sewing machine as a gift this book would help a ton in learning what to not do wrong from the beginning!
Eileen on July 20th, 2010 at 9:22 pm said:

This would help me work with my nineteen-year-old who only believes what I say in how to do something with back-up. That is, current, written, back-up.
greeblygreebly on July 20th, 2010 at 9:35 pm said:

I’m trying to teach myself to sew and I’m sure this book would help me get beyond sewing things made up of straight seams and no patterns. (I’ve made a looot of bags.)
Sew Hoping on July 20th, 2010 at 9:55 pm said:

A funny thing happened on my way to becoming a famously crafty, I seldom complete projects because they seem hopelessly complicated. My garage is filled with half-started sewing projects, seriously!
Sure do hope I’m selected by my FAVORITE blog website to win this sewing book, learn a thing or two, and overcome my half-craft problem.
Thanks, Craftzine!
befadee on July 20th, 2010 at 10:20 pm said:

This book sounds like a fabulous addition to my reference shelf. I’m sure it’d be dogeared in no time!
Sleep Goblin on July 20th, 2010 at 11:09 pm said:

Me and my sad sewing skills always have questions that need answering…
lovethyscent on July 20th, 2010 at 11:44 pm said:

Would love to win I could really use the help lol. Jen
mxld on July 21st, 2010 at 12:18 am said:

I’m currently trying to teach myself to sew & this would be SO helpful. I successfully taught myself to knit but I am not having the same luck with sewing. I would love to win his book!
mereornament on July 21st, 2010 at 12:49 am said:

i was given an amazing bernina sewing machine over a year ago and am so intimidated to use it. something always comes up leaving me without a successful outcome–not so great for pushing a perfectionist on! i would love to have a resource to go to with information about the basics! thanks!
Dragongirl on July 21st, 2010 at 2:14 am said:

I love to sew, but I’m still a beginner, and this book would be of immense help to me! Plus the cover photo is just gorgeous and it would look great on my coffee table.
killimengri.wordpress.com on July 21st, 2010 at 2:36 am said:

I would love this book as I often have to mnake my own patterns for things & have to guess & use trial & error. I’m paralysed on 1 side, so any help or pointers at all are very helpful.
Kenners on July 21st, 2010 at 2:39 am said:

I would like the book because as I just kind of picked sewing up, mainly through trial and error, some actual guidance on on specific things would be mighty handy!
Adélia on July 21st, 2010 at 2:49 am said:

I’m a beginer on sewing. I bought myself a sewing machine a year ago, but I barely use it, because I have to spend much time trying to make the perfect stitches, etc. I have tons of great ideas going on on my head… now I just need this fabulous book to make it happen
kunni on July 21st, 2010 at 3:41 am said:

because my bobbin keeps breaking and tune of my sewing machine will be $100. I would love to find the answer myself!
Kunni Biener
nyht19 on July 21st, 2010 at 4:04 am said:

I’m still a novice at sewing and I don’t have anyone to ask when I have questions/problems. This book looks like it would be an excellent resource.
LSTinVA on July 21st, 2010 at 4:05 am said:

I have a machine that is WAY more advanced than my paltry skills… would love to tap into its full potential! What a wonderful resource the book would be
Mariette on July 21st, 2010 at 4:28 am said:

Having this book would be like having an expert at your side whenever you need her! This would be SOOOO wonderful!
Mariette
psart on July 21st, 2010 at 4:31 am said:

I love reference books. I am an artist & crafter that teaches others this joy.
Sarah on July 21st, 2010 at 4:36 am said:

I need this book because I can’t keep calling my Mom every time I have a question!!
adrea on July 21st, 2010 at 4:37 am said:

Just thinking about how much time and stitch ripping out this would save makes me very very happy!
Rebekah on July 21st, 2010 at 4:43 am said:

This looks like a great resource. It would be really helpful to me as I work on my sewing projects…I often find myself having to get up in the middle of sewing to browse the internet for answers to my sewing questions.
rebekah on July 21st, 2010 at 4:47 am said:

This book would be a great reference for me as I teach my daughters to sew!
pfenn on July 21st, 2010 at 4:49 am said:

I need this book! I want this book!
Sheri on July 21st, 2010 at 4:51 am said:

It sounds like it would answer any question I had about sewing, like how to sew a circle bottome bag without getting frustrated!
Sheri on July 21st, 2010 at 4:53 am said:

This looks like it would be a great book to answer any question I had about sewing, like how to sew a circle bottom bag without getting frustrated!
flamenquita on July 21st, 2010 at 5:03 am said:

I’ve become geeen repurposing clothes. This book will answer so many questions!!!
Jen on July 21st, 2010 at 5:16 am said:

Hi – I’m teaching myself to sew (and loving it, by the way!).
I have plenty of “huh?” moments, though, and this book could be the perfect cure – getting me out of “huh?” and back to what I love – sewing!
Thank you for this chance to win a copy!
Kate on July 21st, 2010 at 5:30 am said:

This book sounds like just what I need! I’m about to venture into the world of making my own clothes for the first time, and I have so many questions about fitting and patterns because I’m going to have to alter everything for my height.
DreamsofYarn on July 21st, 2010 at 5:34 am said:

I’m a self taught sewer with the power of the internet behind me but would love to have a little answer book at hand beside the machine for the questions that pop up!
~Heather on July 21st, 2010 at 5:37 am said:

When I’m sewing, I’m always talking to myself, sometimes in the form of a questions… I’d be wonderful to have a book like this one to give me some answers to those queries!
loreal on July 21st, 2010 at 5:46 am said:

No matter how long you have been sewing there is always something that you do not know the answer to. An answer book is a great reference book! It would fit very nicely in my sewing library!
jlonik on July 21st, 2010 at 5:47 am said:

I am a brand new at sewing and just bought a sewing machine that I finally am understanding how to use. I have no idea about different fabrics/threads/sewing techniques/etc and am trying to start sewing some of my own clothes so I would definitely like to learn!
Leah@bushelandpecks.blogspot.com on July 21st, 2010 at 5:56 am said:

You don’t know how badly I need this book. The only reference I have is badly beaten up with pages missing.
moerita on July 21st, 2010 at 6:11 am said:

I’m the crafty one in the family. And my girls think I know it all….if they only really knew! Having this book will allow me to continue to teach them and save tons of research time in answering their questions. Not to mention what a wonderful teaching tool on it’s own.
piccadillous on July 21st, 2010 at 6:28 am said:

I’m just trying to get into sewing more seriously, and I would love to have all the answers!
Beth Hempton on July 21st, 2010 at 6:29 am said:

omg, i would LOOOOOVE to have this book. just last night i spent about an hour searching online for an answer to why my bobbin thread kept getting all tangled up. the answer turned out to be that my machine just wanted a few drops of oil. DUH! so yeah, i could really use a book like this! : )
kate B on July 21st, 2010 at 6:33 am said:

I’m learning how to sew the same way I learned how to knit–just jump right in and do it! Having a source to answer lots of little questions that I have would make my learning curve a lot shorter!
librarylil on July 21st, 2010 at 6:33 am said:

I’m a quilter, so I mostly do straight seams, and would love to be able to expand my sewing horizons. Plus, I’m a librarian, so anything that answers questions is like super-bonus!
Leslie Jankowski on July 21st, 2010 at 6:41 am said:

I’m an avid (if a bit sloppy) sewer. I learned by watching my mother when I was little–she sewed most of my clothes–and from trial and error now. It would be really helpful to get some tips and tricks to save myself time and money! Also, I just found out I’m expecting in March, so I’d really like to make a bunch of clothes for my own child!
gakreiner on July 21st, 2010 at 6:47 am said:

I am getting back into sewing after many years and have forgotten so much since I first learned. This would come in handy.
Ann on July 21st, 2010 at 6:48 am said:

This would be a big help as I re-teach myself to sew!
thigpensrevenge on July 21st, 2010 at 6:48 am said:

I just got a machine for my birthday…teaching myself slowly. This would certainly help!
jbartistic on July 21st, 2010 at 6:56 am said:

I’m taking sewing classes this summer and I need a reference book while I’m at home doing my homework
inky on July 21st, 2010 at 7:02 am said:

I want this book because I have so many questions!
Pirate on July 21st, 2010 at 7:02 am said:

…but never knew how!
Shelly on July 21st, 2010 at 7:12 am said:

Everything I know about sewing I’ve learned just by experimenting myself – I don’t know why I never thought of getting a book! This would probably help me up my (rather mediocre) sewing skills and maybe I could actually finish all those projects I have lying around! My mom also recently handed down her mini sewing machine to me and I’m clueless as to where to start with it, so this might give me the info I need. Thanks!
JeansCouldUseHelp on July 21st, 2010 at 7:12 am said:

I’ve been sewing on and off for about 30 yrs and I still have a lot to learn. I’ve always just figured it out or asked a friend a question to a certain problem here or there. I would love to have this book!
ammieloris on July 21st, 2010 at 7:12 am said:

Adorable, indeed! Why is it that every time I am faced with a zipper I freak out? Surely this little sweetie would help me tame those fears, as well as take a moment to consider my next move before barging ahead with a hem that stretches out my knit fabric! Could I use this book? Of course!
Mused on July 21st, 2010 at 7:12 am said:

I am trying to start sewing more, and in doing so, need to learn more than the absolute basics. I would love to have this book to help.
karielinnf on July 21st, 2010 at 7:17 am said:

I would LOVE a copy of this book! I have owned my sewing machine for 5 years and have never used it.
Emory on July 21st, 2010 at 7:17 am said:

Even as I gain more and more experience in sewing I’m still amazed by how much I don’t know, or the simple stuff I just forget. Having a book like this by my side would be wonderful!
TiaMaria on July 21st, 2010 at 7:22 am said:

I need this. I’m enamored with the idea of finally becoming competent with sewing, but am unable to attain those heights on my own through trial and (many, many) errors. Hearing about a whole chapter dedicated to picking the right thread and needle for a project has me swooning. It’s true! I’m actually on my actual fainting couch, having swooned from the overwhelming emotions brought on by the thought of at last having my endless sewing questions answered, and in one cute volume.
Also, it’s my birthday next week, and I’ve been very good this year.
bethanye on July 21st, 2010 at 7:31 am said:

I am teaching myself to sew on a Freecycled Sears Kenmore. I know the basics of using a sewing machine and sewing by hand but get overwhelmed whenever I try to work from a pattern. I love to sew but have so much to learn before I can make something I can wear!
Tracy hanson on July 21st, 2010 at 7:35 am said:

40 years of Sewing and still I don’t always know what to do-
This Book would be my Bible to sewing Heaven!!!
duckie on July 21st, 2010 at 7:37 am said:

I’m teaching my daughter to sew and, just like her mother, she doesn’t like to follow patterns. I think this book is just what we have been looking for! We need a book that tells us how to do certain things without telling us what to make.
Never A Plain Jane on July 21st, 2010 at 7:43 am said:

I a in the process of starting my own accessories business and have been busily sewing sample stitches on every type of fabric imaginable to see what works. This would be an amazing addition to my library. I could definitely use the help.
Never A Plain Jane on July 21st, 2010 at 7:46 am said:

I am busily trying to launch my own accessories business and have been sewing sample stitches on every fabric scrap I can find just to figure out what works with what. This would be an excellent resource!
psart on July 21st, 2010 at 7:49 am said:

& my email box is overflowing how do I get it to stop
Rous2784 on July 21st, 2010 at 7:55 am said:

I would sit down and read that book cover to cover, thus letting the information soak into my sponge-like brain. Then when I get together with my Mother or Grandmother to sew I could see their utter confused looks on their faces. The student hath become the master. No more strings of late night calls to them asking questions that get answered as sew, “Just wait until the morning dear, then I can sew it for you.”
Plus, I would finally be able to make useful things like clothing that doesn’t fall apart in the washing machine and purses that don’t have multiple holes that are only discovered after I turned the hole purse right side out through a dime sized hole. Oi! How my brain would love such a treasure…
SadieJaneKnits on July 21st, 2010 at 7:56 am said:

This is an amazing giveaway. Thanks for the opportunity!
polkadottedsheep on July 21st, 2010 at 8:22 am said:

I’m just getting back into sewing after a long hiatus. A good recent reference would be handy.
luvmygirlies on July 21st, 2010 at 8:22 am said:

Although I have been sewing for a while, I still have questions. This will be a perfect reference tool. Would love to win one! Thanks.
pieKnits on July 21st, 2010 at 8:23 am said:

I got the baking book i the series and loved it so much went out and got the gardening one. The sewing one would be perfect as I still have so many questions while learning to sew!
Sav O'G on July 21st, 2010 at 8:52 am said:

I could totally use this book–I have three new sewing machines and I NEED to use them and learn how to sew!! THANKS:)
ThunderMama on July 21st, 2010 at 9:06 am said:

I would LOVE to have this book. I’ve forgotten almost everything I learned all those years ago in Home Ec, but I really want to start sewing for my family. I have some of the other Answer books–would love to add this one to my collection.
Alexis Geissler on July 21st, 2010 at 9:13 am said:

I have a sewing machine and have taken a few classes but feel so helpless when I sit down to actually use it. This would be so helpful!
uyek on July 21st, 2010 at 9:16 am said:

I have a very good sewing book but it is huge and not exactly the type of book to keep by the sewing machine. Especially since I have to put everything away when I finish each time!
Also, it’s great but it dates from the seventies. There must have been a few developments in sewing since then. This book should bring me up to date.
firstthingsfirst.myopenid.com on July 21st, 2010 at 9:24 am said:

As a novice sewer who still has no clue what she’s doing, I could really use this book!
Bonney on July 21st, 2010 at 9:40 am said:

I know I could put this book to good use. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve decided to ‘wing it’ and ended up with a disaster. Sounds like this book may have the answers even if I don’t know the question!
Katya on July 21st, 2010 at 9:42 am said:

I’m still new to sewing, and I think I’m starting to annoy my mother and my friends with all my questions. Please, save my relationships!
akmiles on July 21st, 2010 at 10:21 am said:

I am a largely self taught sewer who can follow a pattern (most of the time) but is trying to strike out on her own and get more complex in my skills. I think this book would help me do just that! Please?!
Toni on July 21st, 2010 at 10:27 am said:

If this little book is anything like The Knitting Answer Book then it rocks. I’m new to sewing and would love to have this handy reference book!
Rosalie on July 21st, 2010 at 10:55 am said:

This looks like a lovely book and I hope I am a lucky winner. Thank you.
jdoan on July 21st, 2010 at 10:55 am said:

I have a lot of questions about sewing, and this book would be a great guide!
Beckysews on July 21st, 2010 at 11:01 am said:

I have been sewing for 40+ years but I still have questions!
Thanks for the chance to win.
sewingdebman on July 21st, 2010 at 11:11 am said:

my mom taught me to sew and at first I sewed for myself, now with my family I am asked to fix well loved pockets, change patterns, sew gifts and lend my sewing maching to my daughters and friends – having this book would teach me and I could share it with them so they can learn too and the torch can be passed on
VinChic Designs on July 21st, 2010 at 11:15 am said:

I am a novice sewer who simply can’t afford fashion design school and am at work when classes are offered at the local sewing shops. There are so many questions that I am desperate for answers to so that I may increase my skills and the quality of the products I produce.
Thank you for the opportunity.
albuquirky on July 21st, 2010 at 11:16 am said:

how to sew and I have a heap of questions. This book looks lovely!
Cyn on July 21st, 2010 at 11:18 am said:

I am just learning how to sew and don’t know how to do anything! I would love this book.
longlifelove on July 21st, 2010 at 11:31 am said:

I love to sew more than anything, but there is still a lot I have to learn and questions I need answered. Things like working with patterns and putting in zippers.
I think this book would a great help to me.
korirae on July 21st, 2010 at 11:40 am said:

I am an intermediate sewer and would love to improve my skills. This book would find a lovely home in my craft room. Thanks for considering me!
Michael Mutalipassi on July 21st, 2010 at 11:46 am said:

So, I am an avid cyclist. I saw the simple design on the Craft Magazine about making a bike seat cover. I thought to myself, wow, I need a bike seat cover. I bought a sewing machine on craigslist for $20, and I made myself a bike seat cover. It turned out so well, I made one for a friend as well. Then, I decided to make a frame bag for my bike. I bought some ripstop nylon and some zippers and went at it. Many hours later, I had a frame bag that fit the bike perfectly. Now, I want to make some even more advanced projects. I bought some canvas, and decided to make paniers for touring. I have been planning what they should look like, and realized I wanted pockets on the outside, but that I do not know how to sew pockets on the outside. Then, I read the description of this book. It says right in the description that it will teach me how to sew patch pockets on the outside of my bags. I bet it will teach me a lot more. Especially, since, so far, I have been making it up as I go. I am really excited at the prospect of learning how to sew properly.
NatalieDraz on July 21st, 2010 at 11:56 am said:

Due to my quirky personality, I almost never want to actually start projects with a pattern. I rather strike out in a bold new frontier on my own and inevitably retreat back to the web-saloon in order to solve the various obstacles that crop up. Having a handy dandy pocketsize book o’ answers would be much appreciated on the sewin’ trails…
Jenny on July 21st, 2010 at 12:01 pm said:

This book looks great! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had to stop in the middle of a project with some silly little sewing question holding me up. I’d love to have this on hand!
Miss Muffin on July 21st, 2010 at 12:16 pm said:

as it would totally cut down my online (googling) time to find answers to my sewing questions as I am working on projects!
kmstoc3 on July 21st, 2010 at 12:36 pm said:

I am new at sewing and really DO need every question answered.
kate morar on July 21st, 2010 at 12:44 pm said:

this book would make my day! i am currently working on a hand sewn art piece and this book would make an excellent reference so i can successfully complete and polish my work.
Malinda on July 21st, 2010 at 12:58 pm said:

LOL – entry close date is my birthday, but I really want this book because I always get stuck on things EXACTLY like you mention – how do finish this cuff. what’s the best way to make a pocket. I think if I had a reference like this, I’d sew a lot more.
Can we have facebook connect to comment?
caracolina on July 21st, 2010 at 1:16 pm said:

I’m a newb seamstress and this sounds like a great book to help with my many questions that I invariably stumble over during a project. Thank you for another great giveaway!
Rosebudlia on July 21st, 2010 at 1:27 pm said:

My mum taught me everything she knows about sewing and we now have regular crafternoons making brilliant things (I am making a top at the moment with the most amazing watermelon slice print!) – but now that she has taught me everything she knows we both get stuck on the same problems! I’d love this book to keep our sewing sessions from losing their momentum – thank you!
aggie00 on July 21st, 2010 at 1:28 pm said:

I want to become a better seamstress!
qriouscrafter on July 21st, 2010 at 1:40 pm said:

…because I have too many unanswered sewing questions!
Mirmandy on July 21st, 2010 at 1:52 pm said:

No Way! I need this because I usually have to look in five different books to find the answers to my questions. And having one by my sewing machine? Heaven!
jilybrat on July 21st, 2010 at 2:04 pm said:

I would love to win this book!!! This would prevent me from improvising on something i wasn’t sure of (usually the consequences are pretty bad) or even worse from having to phone my mother for help!!!
jewels on July 21st, 2010 at 2:38 pm said:

Of course!
ali on July 21st, 2010 at 4:22 pm said:

I’d love to win! I’m just learning how to sew and this book would be great.
PJ on July 21st, 2010 at 4:35 pm said:

I have the Knitting Answer Book, and I can’t begin to count the number of times I’ve turned to it and found the help I needed.
If the Sewing Answer Book is even half as well-written as its knitting counterpart, I have to have it in my library! Would LOVE to win it; thanks for putting on the contest!
Campy on July 21st, 2010 at 4:47 pm said:

All work and no play make me go crazy! Sewing keeps me sane while I’m writing my dissertation, and this book would keep me even saner!
Primdoll on July 21st, 2010 at 4:57 pm said:

This would be an awesome book to have! I have started back sewing again and I am always trying to figure out ways to do things! this is a perfect book!! I would LOVE to win!!
thereluctantcraftster on July 21st, 2010 at 5:05 pm said:

I taught myself to sew a few years ago on my mom’s avocado green singer from the 60′s. There are definitely some techniques that I need to hone though. I would hope that this book would help my projects look a little more finished. Plus I usually love the books that are posted on this site
HeidiK on July 21st, 2010 at 5:19 pm said:

I’ve just started learning to sew seriously and am always looking for tips!
corvustristis.wordpress.com on July 21st, 2010 at 6:07 pm said:

I know no one nearby who sews, and so turn to the internet for my questions. It’d be nice to have answers more portable than my desktop.
corvus.melloriATgmailDOTcom
juliet on July 21st, 2010 at 6:41 pm said:

i love to sew but i definitely need help. there is still so much that i need to learn.
dst on July 21st, 2010 at 7:11 pm said:

I think its time to use a needle and thread instead of seaming tape and my stapler….just a thought.
swolcheski on July 21st, 2010 at 8:00 pm said:

I’m struggling to learn to hand sew, this would be so helpful!
arguinglulu on July 21st, 2010 at 8:27 pm said:

This book is an answer to anyone’s sewing prayers! It’d be great to have a go-to source.
ambrerose on July 21st, 2010 at 9:22 pm said:

Now I can stop calling my mom with every little question when I am in the middle of a sewing project! I would love to have this at my fingertips!
suburbansafari on July 21st, 2010 at 9:33 pm said:

With two three-year-olds I get precious little time to sew; too much of that time is taken up wondering how to do something, why it didn’t work, and how I can possibly fix it! Skipping these tedious steps would be useful, to say the least.
norarachel on July 21st, 2010 at 11:01 pm said:

I am a self-taught sewer, which in my case means that I go along happily until I get to something I don’t know how to do. Sometimes I can figure it out with the help of google, but sometimes I am left kind of wandering my way through a project, knowing there is a better way than the way I am doing things. I need help!
Just-in on July 22nd, 2010 at 1:06 am said:

I’ve just started my adventure with sewing and have lots of questions so me and this book would seem to make quite a nice pair
UnicornChow on July 22nd, 2010 at 5:12 am said:

Why do I need this book? Because I am a beginner at sewing and I want to do more than the basics. I can make a basic this and a basic that, but even those don’t come out nice. I would LOVE to be able to add pockets and zippers without trying to lug my computer over the sewing table to try and read a tutorial why I’m working. A book would be much easier to work with, when I’m trying to make something. Good luck to all!
wishfulthinking on July 22nd, 2010 at 6:23 am said:

Everyone should have their own library of reference books…in case you don’t have access to the internet! Plus, books are just lovely. I could use this.
Caitlin on July 22nd, 2010 at 8:47 am said:

I always try to out think myself on some of the more simple answers. It would be lovely to have a beautiful reference book!
Karen on July 22nd, 2010 at 10:58 am said:

Thank you for the giveaway. I love to sew, but often need to go searching for answers. This book looks like it would be such a great reference for me.
Kim O on July 22nd, 2010 at 11:08 am said:

I always have so many questions but often get so lost and confused in the maze of internet google searches that I usually give up the project or do a less-than-stellar job! A quick reference book would be amazingly helpful for my productivity and efficiency!
laulaa on July 22nd, 2010 at 11:59 am said:

Because I’m a beginner and right now I direct all my sewing questions to friends who are very busy, and I need to give them a break!
Bianchs on July 22nd, 2010 at 12:18 pm said:

I would love to win the book because I just bought my very first machine and am trying to learn how to sew! I’m very petite and have to have everything altered. I decided to learn to sew so I can fix my clothes and those of my family and friends myself. And I love fashion and to create!
Thank you.
IrellaVent on July 22nd, 2010 at 12:29 pm said:

‘Nuf said.
rosebanana on July 22nd, 2010 at 1:15 pm said:

I need this book because I am like a babe in the woods when it comes to sewing.
I love it dearly, but so many steps in even the simplest pattern leave me feeling bewildered. I just completed my first serious project (put in a zipper with mixed results, although so far it has survived some wear) but I could really stand to improve on the details that they so often glibly gloss over in the instructions.
And buttonholes still seem like the big, bad wolf to me. So, my first question is: who’s afraid of the big, bad wolf? The answer: me. But with a little help from a handy reference book, perhaps I would stand a chance…
dinergirl on July 22nd, 2010 at 2:25 pm said:

Oh, yes, the interwebs is a wonderful thing, but sometimes you don’t want to drag a big ol’ laptop into the craft room. How lovely it would be to have a nice little reference guide that doesn’t take up the whole sewing table.
Alex on July 22nd, 2010 at 2:31 pm said:

I’d love to have this book because my mom’s a seamstress and costume designer – how great would it be if I could knock her socks off with newfound sewing skills on my next visit?
Ellen on July 22nd, 2010 at 3:22 pm said:

I’m just getting into sewing and keep having to stop and try to google things, especially the hand sewing finishing touches. I can’t ever remember any stitches. I reference to leave next to my machine would be excellent and quite the time saver. Come on random number generator. Pick me.
PenguinBot on July 22nd, 2010 at 4:17 pm said:

I’m always looking to expand my sewing library!
kaye77 on July 22nd, 2010 at 5:22 pm said:

this would be a great addtion to my sewing library, and perfect size when I start to teach my son to sew!
Cheers Jenny
Reyna on July 22nd, 2010 at 5:31 pm said:

I don’t own many books, as I prefer to borrow what I need from a library – that way, the resources that went into creating the book can be used by many more people. However, this is a book that I would use over and over in my quest to learn how to repair, repurpose, reuse and reinvent all things made of fabric! I would love to win it, and thank you for the opportunity.
Emi on July 22nd, 2010 at 10:22 pm said:

I’ve been sewing for a while, but I know next to nothing about it. I just jump into projects and find that I’m in over my head. This would be a seriously awesome resource for me!
ponderonit1 on July 23rd, 2010 at 5:58 am said:

I really want to win this book because I’ve gotta know the answers!
Amie on July 23rd, 2010 at 6:46 am said:

Pretty please with sugar on top?
I have a new sewing machine sitting in my closet from Christmas 2 years ago, and I really want to re-learn how to sew!
mango on July 23rd, 2010 at 9:21 am said:

My newly-formed dance team needs swishy skirts to fit our various body types. The Shaping to Fit chapter would help me get them to fit right. Thanks!
ChickyJen on July 23rd, 2010 at 11:35 am said:

I just started sewing a couple months ago. I’m a self-taught crafter on a budget and I’d love to have this book on my shelf.
Nalie on July 23rd, 2010 at 1:02 pm said:

I allways need help!!
Monica on July 23rd, 2010 at 2:04 pm said:

I want to pass down all the knowledge and techniques I can to my five granddaughters. Two are old enough and are learning, the other three not for a while. They love it! I’ve been sewing 35+ yrs but some things I just don’t know how to do and some things I just don’t know how to do well. Looks like a great book.
Thank you!
gabby on July 23rd, 2010 at 6:56 pm said:

I am continuing to learn how to sew on my own and this book would be very helpful especially if it is as good as it’s sister the crochet book that has helped me so much with my crochet….thanks hope i win
Jillian on July 24th, 2010 at 6:30 am said:

Beyond a basic tote bag, I’m hopeless. Need a life preserver like this before I drown here in beginner land.
Clare Forstie on July 24th, 2010 at 6:44 am said:

I’d love to win this book! I’ve been looking to get back to my sewing roots. Here’s hoping!
tishous on July 24th, 2010 at 9:09 am said:

I am a terrible sewer and maybe, just maybe, this book is the perfect fixer for that!
Natalya on July 24th, 2010 at 2:27 pm said:

I pretty much saw by intuition; perhaps it’s time to do it more professionally.
collington on July 24th, 2010 at 3:01 pm said:

Why do I want this? Because I got a sewing machine for Christmas and I’ll I’ve been able to do is get it threaded… so it’s not a matter of why I want the book; it’s why I NEED the book.
TaoArtGuy on July 24th, 2010 at 5:41 pm said:

First ever sewing machine is arriving on Tuesday! The wife and I could sure use this book.
mygenaddy on July 25th, 2010 at 11:15 am said:

I’d love a book like this because I am mostly a self-taught seamstress. My mom started me out when I was a kid, but I didn’t sew for years until recently. Now I just search around online if I don’t know something, and I’m doing more and more sewing. Would be nice to have such a handy reference.
ecj0320 on July 25th, 2010 at 2:16 pm said:

New to sewing! This would be so helpful & wonderful to have!!
CleverPuss on July 28th, 2010 at 11:05 am said:

I’m a self-taught sewer and unfortunately it takes me quite a long time to do a project where I feel it will hold up to time and has the basic elements that make a piece look professionally made. A book would be so so so helpful in my quest to start making my own clothing!
loura on July 28th, 2010 at 2:26 pm said:

I’m teaching my three girls how to sew this year and would love to have this book for a reference !