Simple Sewing Projects: Quick-Stitch Designs for Sewing by Hand and Machine

From Make It Yourself magazine comes Simple Sewing, an all-inclusive introduction to sewing. Make It Yourself serves the new generation of crafters captivated by Etsy and Pinterest, inspiring them to try out sewing techniques by hand or machine. Whether it’s your first time stitching, you’re trying to introduce a friend or loved one to the craft, or you just want to brush up and expand your skillset, Simple Sewing Projects is for you. 

Whether you’ve been sewing for five weeks or five decades, Simple Sewing Projects features 120+ designs, tutorials, and accompanying patterns accessible to any sewer. The time-honored craft of sewing is a tremendously useful skill—it lets you create pretty and utilitarian pieces that can be given as gifts or used to bring color, texture, and interest to your life. The designs are easy enough for beginners but will also have great appeal to more experienced sewers looking for something fun to whip up in an afternoon or two.

Each project is presented with a finished photo; step-by-step instructions, illustrations, and photos; and corresponding patterns where necessary. The look and feel of the book puts a fresh spin on traditional sewing with youthful, on-trend DIY fashion, accessories, and decor. From appliqué affirmation pillows to embroidered jewelry, from five-minute wreaths to dog beds, whether you sew for practical reasons or purely for the satisfaction of making something by hand, Simple Sewing Projects will inspire you to get stitching.

Just some of the projects:  

Pillows & Throws Denim Grommet Pillow, Recycled Sweater Throw, Rosette Pillow

Home Dec & Accessories Embroidered Tea Towels, Monogrammed Cards, Embroidered Coasters

Purses, Bags & Personal Accessories Denim Tote, Fabric Clutch, Embroidered Scarf

Kids & Pets Girl’s Ruffle Skirt, Fabric Bunting, Dog’s Food and Drink Mat and Cushions 

Simple Storage Reusable Snack and Sandwich Bags, Felt Pencil Case, Make-in-Minutes Jewelry Bag

Notions & Pincushions Donut Pincushions, Circle Sewing Bag, Stuffed Mushroom Case

Holiday Projects Napkin Rings, Make-in-Minutes Gift Tags, Stockings

“Handmade”—it’s a word and a lifestyle making a resurgence in popularity. As makers of things, we at Make It Yourself magazine are happy to hear it! And we’re thrilled to share with you some of our favorite crafts—everything from jewelry to sewing to paper crafts—inspired by Pinterest, Etsy, and blogs. Now instead of spending hours dreaming of projects, you can start creating with our easy steps. Then when your friends ask where you got it, you can smile and say, “I made it myself!”