Can anybody recommend a book that teaches you to sew?

[MilaMae]

My mother makes/sews,knits,crochets etc etc. I rebelled against learning as a child but want to start with learning to sew.

My mum works now so has little time to do her own stuff let alone teach me,we'd kill each other too so a very basic book is needed.

TIA

I bought Sewing for Dummies as I needed to learn how to take trousers up. It is very basic and I learnt how to do it, but it turns out I HATE sewing!

I have been getting a mag recently that is fairly new (sew hip) I think its called. I has good steps working from the basic straight line and curves basis and you get a free pattern to try, which is good. I have been sewing for years but have learnt so much basic stuff that i never knew about. It is also possible to look into local courses if you think you like it to develop you skills.

If you go into a big shop (would have said borders in the past ) and head to the sewing section you will find a style that you like all differ. Start with a simple project and then work your way up otherwise it is easy to become demorilised.

I recommend the book Making Children's Clothes which has simple, clear instructions and nice clothes to make which are suitable for a beginner. You could start with a simple project such as the dressing gown.

Sew by Cath Kidston has lots of inspiring projects and clear instructions. Many of the projects are suitable for a beginner, such as the aprons.

I agree that Sew Hip magazine is good for ideas.

Sewing for Dummies taught me a lot about the basics -following a pattern, using a machine etc. I ask MN for anything else!