Friends, the only thing I like better than getting something for next to nothing ($20 sewing machines, anyone?), is getting something for FREE!
So I was delighted to receive a complementary copy of Simplicity Fabric Guide: The Ultimate Fiber Resource, being released this month and already available on Amazon below list price, from its publisher, Sixth&Spring Books. I don't advertise on MPB, but I am happy to share my honest opinion.
Let's take a look.
Like many people who sew, I'm a highly visual person, and so I appreciated the beautiful art direction here. At roughly 175 pages and spiral bound, this fabric guide is easy to refer to -- pages stay open. It measures roughly 9" x 9" x 1" thick, which is, for me, a very comfortable book size. I'm short.
There are roughly 50 pages devoted to fabric types, with two fabrics per page, arranged in alphabetical order. Photographs are large, clear, and in full color. Along with each photo is a brief description, recommended uses, and sewing tips. These are some of the best photographs of fabric I've seen, and truly capture the unique textures of the fabrics being described.
Other highlights include a detailed description of various weaves and knits, a section on natural and synthetic fibers, as well as chapters devoted to color choices, thread choices, interfacings and linings.
Simplicity Fabric Guide is not as encyclopedic as some of the older fabric guides I'm familiar with, but I don't think most people need an encyclopedia -- or want one. Too much information and a book can become unwieldy and, as a result, infrequently used. Excellent photography and clear layout make this a winner, especially for beginner and intermediate sewers.
A sewing book about fabric should be beautiful and invite the reader to open it again and again, no?
You can see more photos of Simplicity Fabric Guide here.
It's Independence Day here in the USA, and I've declared independence from my dreaded ironing board project. At least until lunch.
Friends, in the spirit of commerce, is there a favorite sewing-related (or non sewing-related item) you wish to endorse today? You know by now I'm a big fan of the Brother 1034D serger, for example, and don't even get me started on Clinique 7 Day Scrub Cream...
Something worth the price that really lights up your life?
Let your voice be heard!
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