Dressmaking: A Step-By-Step Course

Many baby boomers who shuddered at the thought of mandatory sewing classes in their youth may find Aitken's directions amazingly simple to follow. Though, with the boom in discount stores and outlet malls, the benefit of saving money via home-stitched garments is minimal, still, for readers with time and some skill, do-it-yourself dressmaking is a viable option. All the steps and details are included, along with a wealth of illustrationsfrom necessary tools and measurement calculations to intricate interfacings and linings. And, with the availability of manufacturers' overlock machines (those producing a blanket-stitch-like look), Aitken proves that at-home sewing need not look like it. Barbara Jacobs

As the title indicates, this book covers the step-by-step process of dressmaking. Geared toward the sewing novice, it provides brief and basic explanations of terms and simplified hand-drawn illustrations of techniques, while touching on every aspect from pattern choice through the finishing touches. Aitken, author of five books on the subject and an expert dressmaking teacher who has run her own adult sewing school for more than 20 years, certainly knows her subject. Yet, while the book is attractive in layout and format, it tends to oversimplify techniques that require years of experience to master. In addition, over 20 pages are devoted to the use of an overlock machine, an item not likely to be among a novice's first purchases. Still, this book offers useful information. Recommended for public libraries where demand for this subject is high.
Vicki Gadberry, Mars Hill Coll. Lib., N.C.
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.