Lessons in Machine Sewing: 20 Projects Kids Will Love to Make
(Sewing School)

Gr 3-8--A sequel to Sewing School (Storey, 2010), which focused on hand stitching, this visually appealing title carries those skills over to machine sewing. It covers the basics: machine and fabric anatomy and selection, supplies needed, project preparation, and safety practices. Readers are guided step-by-step in the creation of 20 projects, with patterns enclosed in a pocket at the back. The projects have been tested by children within the book's targeted age range; are logically arranged, garnering more stars as their complexity increases; and draw on skill sets that have been previously covered. Clear, high-quality photographs and concise directions coincide with each step, while sidebars contain ideas for personalizing projects with embellishments. One chapter is devoted to correcting mistakes; hand-stitching skills needed in finishing up are contained in another. Information on creating a sewing group and a useful resource guide are included. Highlighting the many benefits acquired through learning to sew, this volume will serve adults as well as children. As a beginner's guide, it is first-rate and even encourages readers to expand their repertoire with the inclusion of more challenging techniques such as patchwork, drawstrings, and zippers. It is wonderfully designed and an ideal purchase for beginners, though its pattern pocket and spiral binding might not be best suited for heavy circulation.--Rebecca Gueorguiev, New York Public Library