Fabricate: 2 Innovative Sewing Projects that Make Fabric the Star

Create gorgeous one-of-a-kind handmade fabrics and transform them into fun and useful projects with this guide to distinctive cloth-making techniques. This innovative how-to resource uses classic and modern techniques to create interesting custom fabrics that are used in a dazzling array of fresh, stylish yet practical must-have items for one's wardrobe or home. From laptop cases to evening bags, elegant wraps to flirty skirts, floor pillows to whimsical curtains, this tutorial uses a variety of easy fiber-art and fabric-manipulation techniques to create original fabric projects from wearable designs and touching gifts to home decor. In addition to the cloth-making techniques, there are 17 projects that show what can be made with each unique fabric. Additional instruction is included to create unique effects with pleats and crinkles; puckers and tufts; cut-and-fray fabric techniques; laminates that add colorful, versatile, and playful layers; surface embellishment techniques like cording, applique, and crazy stitch; heat-treated techniques like burn-out, burn-away, and fabric etching; fabrics designed with solvy and repeating notions like rickrack, hooks and eyes, and zippers--leading to many endless possibilities.

Susan Wasinger is a graphic designer specializing in book, magazine, and packaging design. Her design work has been included in such magazines as Herb Companion, Metropolitan Home, Natural Home and Garden, and PieceWork. She lives in Boulder, Colorado.