Book recommendations for sewing novice

[Nutsycuckoo]

I have decided that I would like to learn how to sew, I have a basic sewing machine. I am very fortunate that both my mum and mil used to be seamstresses, so I could always ask them if I really needed hands on help but I prefer learning by myself where I can.
Which books (or other resources) would you recommend? Ideally would contain the basics of sewing, troubleshooting, info on fabrics. Basically an encyclopaedia of sewing....does such a thing exist??

Hi, I would recommend Alison Victoria's books. She is based near me I would love to go on one of her courses. The Sewing Book I think is the general one.

My mum got me the Readers Digest Sewing book back in the 80s, it is just excellent to have it to refer to even now.

Sorry, Alison Smith. Alison Victoria is the business.

Readers Digest Complete guide to sewing is the other one, there's a 2009 edition still on Amazon.

Me and my sewing machine by Kate Haxell. Found it really helpful in showing me how to do various types of seams etc on my sewing machine.

Another vote for the Readers Digest. It covers everything.

If you plan to sew garments then you might find books on fitting to be helpful too. I like "Fitting and Pattern Alteration" by Liechty. It's a textbook and it's expensive, but it covers the widest range of fitting problems I've seen.

Readers Digest and Alison Smith! I use the first most often but both good. Sew Any Fabric by Claire Schaeffer might also be useful. I've also signed up to craftsy courses which have been good.

In Stitches by Jennie Caminada. It explains the basics really well, has a lot of information about sewing machines and tips and how-tos. It's written in a friendly conversational style, so reading it is like having an experienced mate helping you.

Forgot the link: www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/shop/in-stitches-cheekyhandmades-sewing-handbook/