I’m celebrating my 1-year Blogiversary! Join the fun and follow a week full of posts about sewing folks who have inspired my last year – and contests associated with every one! Thanks for visiting; the contests closed on August 18 at midnight.
Let’s begin the Blogiversary festivities!
Today, I want to pay tribute to the book that helped me get over my fear of sewing garments.
Chic and Simple Sewing by Christine Haynes is the perfect book for a beginning sewist getting her sea legs on garments. I bought the book a year ago and sewed my first skirt:
The pattern and instructions couldn’t be simpler, and the skirt is adorable.
Then, I decided to try another book and sew more skirts. That was a bad, bad idea. Jumping right from a circle wrap skirt into an A-line, zippered skirt was hard (I write more about it on Sew Fearless’s blog tomorrow!). So hard that I lost my garment-making mojo. I put away my patterns and garment fabrics for another day and proceeded to dive right into quiltmaking (which, incidentally, I adore, and I’m glad I got diverted!).
But in the last few months, my circle of sewing friends have been making garments and encouraging me to do the same. So I picked up Christine’s book and tried again with this dress. I was skeptical that the shape would look good on me, but if I may say so myself, it’s adorable!
I’ve made two of these “Indian Summer” dresses now, and I also sewed the simple shift dress pattern:
Now I’m onto my first shirt and using jersey fabric for the first time:
I simply cannot recommend this book highly enough for the beginning sewist who’s interested in making garments. I am so grateful I found it, and I want to help another newbie out by giving a copy away now.
I do not have blog sponsors, so all my recommendations this week are solely based on my experiences. However, when I contacted Christine, she did offer to give away a free signed copy of her book to one lucky reader of my blog. I am so flattered that she would agree to help my little venture here – thank you, Christine!
Here’s how to enter: Click here to head over to my Facebook page (and why not “Like” me while you’re at it?), then come back & write a comment on this blog post. It’s that simple. You get extra entries by Tweeting about the contest via Rafflecopter.
The necessary legalities: No purchase is necessary in order to win. The odds of winning are based on number of entries. Contest participants eligible internationally; we will ship overseas. Giveaway participants release the blogger from any responsibility whatsoever.
Shelby said:
This is a great celebration Kristina! What do you reccomend as a first garment for newbies? Skirt v. Dress v. Shirt? Of the patterns you’ve worked from.
picklequeen said:
That dress is adorable! I’m actually terrified of sewing clothes. I’m ok with bags, napkins, tea wallets, etc. but the whole idea of sewing something to wear outside my house seems a bit daunting. Would love to try it though!
Pattie said:
I’ve been sewing for years but just started sewing garments. Looks like a very helpful book!
stacysews said:
Congratulations on your blog-o-versary! Your garments have come out FANTASTIC – now we need to get back to those pjs. 🙂
mekarual said:
I’m still scared of garments. Yours look fantastic!
Jodi (@sewfearless) said:
Kristina, I just think you are the bees knees for not giving up on garment sewing! I can’t wait for your post on Sew Fearless tomorrow!
Jodi (@sewfearless) said:
P.S. What “brings out my inner sewing nerd” is learning clever sewing techniques. I love that “Ah-ha!” moment I get with them.
Selina said:
I love the dresses you have made! I’m terrified of making clothes. I did sew my first dress recently and it didn’t turn out too bad, but is it very basic (no zippers, buttons, elastic…) would love to learn some new techniques and have more handmade clothes in my life! Thank you, Kristina! Oh, I also have liked you on fb for quite some time now =)
Sunny said:
I am always meeting younger girls who have sewing machines but are terried of them. Why?
Karen Havelka said:
Kristina you totally inspired me with your bicycle sheath dress last month at S4, have been drooling over this book ever since! Thanks, Karen.
Robin Huss said:
What “brings out my inner sewing nerd” is seeing the final results! Whether it be quilting or sewing an outfit.
Angel S. said:
I love to sew and am easily inspired–especially by anything floral.
Marg Roswell said:
I was in the aircraft business for many years. Could sew up seat covers and such, but never considered myself a sewer. I got a new sewing machine for christmas and decided l would start sewing. I started by doing totes and purses, now l realize that l actually like sewing. I think l should get this book, l am deadly afraid of tackling clothes, but l would love to be able to make some outfits for my granddaughter and myself as well
Suzanne Ripple said:
I love to sew, would love to try garment sewing but everytime I do they don’t seem to fit me.
Lynda said:
I need to get back to sewing garments. I have trouble getting them to fit.
Meaghan Larsen said:
Thanks for sharing the book reference for how you learned to sew!
Mary Furber said:
Congratulations on your one year anniversary. And welcome to the world of garment sewing.
Mary Furber said:
Congratulations on your one year anniversary.
A. said:
I would love to win this book. I have been wanting a copy for a few years now, but since I had gone back to school I didn’t have the time or money. Now that I am done I’m hoping to find some time to dedicate to sewing each week.
natali said:
Congrats! Love the skirt, the fabric is so cute!. Just recently started sewing and this book looks really helpful with designs I would actually wear 🙂
Trudy Lindemann said:
After 36 years of sewing, 23 of which were spent doing a lot of quilting, I have been getting back into garment sewing again, but looking for simpler patterns. This book seems to fit the bill!
Allison Wade said:
Congrats on your anniversary!
I have sewn for years but had backed off sewing garments for the past 15 years. Now with the arrival of 3 granddaughters, my inspiration to sew clothing has returned and I find myself admiring fabrics for clothes rather than quilts!
~Allison
Virginia Darwin said:
I just discovered your blog and the book you are recommending. I love to sew and love new ideas.!
Lori Benkowski said:
That book sounds like an awesome resource for troubleshooting sewing problems!
Mindy B said:
Congrats! I hope that I can get over my fear of sewing garments, too!
Debbie Ward said:
I just love the 2 dresses you made!!! I made a little pillowcase dress in a class I took at our local comm college, but had lots of help. I am trying to learn to sew more!! congrats on your 1 yr anniversary!!
cherryandcinnamon said:
Hi Kristina, I’m back 😉 This book sounds brilliant. I’ve been wanting to venture into garment making for some time. Even managing a simple skirt would be a massive leap for me! Love the competitions on your blogiversary!Bridgeen
Kim Hart-Paxson said:
I would love to read this book. I get better at sewing with every garment I make. You’ve just got to keep sewing.
Wendy said:
I have been sewing for quite a while, but am really inspired lately but others’ interests in sewing. I spend all of my days off now sewing. I am still challenged by getting things to fit me correctly. It is the one thing that discourages me from sewing things for myself.
Debby Hames said:
I made my first clothing item last month for my grand-daughter, a skirt – it turned out so well that I am nervously ready to venture out and try something bigger! This would definitely be a big help. Thanks for the opportunity. Liked you on facebook and already enjoy reading your blog.
Patricia Lenhart said:
This looks like a great book for a beginner. YOur clothing looks terrific. I would love to win this to give to my daughter, as she learns to sew.
Diana Horton said:
Looks like a great book. Not just for beginners but also for those needing a refresher course.
Bo said:
I think you’ve inspired me to at least try the skirt. I’m 5 months pregnant and my clothes are starting to not fit. I’m thinking maybe I could make the skirt and if it doesn’t fit perfectly I’ll blame it my baby belly. Thanks!
Donna said:
I’ve recently rediscovered the joy of sewing garments for myself. I’ve got the perfect fabric for that shift dress so I’d love a copy of the book.
Sherri said:
I’m taking a break from sewing Christine’s Sassy Librarian Blouse. I’d love to win her book.
Veronica Calvage said:
Happy blog anniversary! Love your posts! I’m dying to get this book. I just started sewing last week, and I’ve heard so many awesome things about Christine! Thanks to both of you for sharing your sewing knowlege!
CassTheCoolest said:
I’d love to win this book, thanks for offering it as a prize. I clicked like on facebook after seeing that a friend had clicked LIKE. It was all because of your name. I’m a nerdy sewist too, but I refer to myself as CassTheCoolest (as a tongue in cheek way of saying I’m a nerdy sewist – I didn’t think of that name! LOL) XO
Jacqueline said:
Congradulations on your anniversary. I’ve been sewing for years, but now I do lots of alterations. I live in a small community and not many people to sew for.
wendy said:
This book look great. Congts. On your first year
Ali M said:
Gosh…sewing nerd? I don’t know, geek, I know – I’m making Mario Bros and Portal items for friends and family. Hmm, nerd, maybe embroidering a talking jam jar… 🙂
Chris W said:
Loved the wrap skirt and the dresses. I haven’t made clothes for a while-getting the itch to start again.
Teri Shiflett said:
I’m a 50+ yr. old grandma that used to sew when I was a teenager. My dh just bought me an awesome Janome sewing/embroidery machine. I am nervous about starting to sew all over again but this book looks like it would be a great place to start. Thanks for this opportunity.
luciabortz said:
30+ years ago, as a new bride and young mother, I took so much delight in learning to sew and make things for my home and little ones. Seeing a renewed interest in a new generation brings back the delight I once felt, and has now renewed my own interest! I cherish the idea of being involved with this next generation…
Darcy said:
I’ve been doing simple sewing since I was a child. Recently though, I’ve been eating up watching and reading sewing tutorials. I’ve decided I really want to try producing a line of upcycled clothing.
Almond Rock said:
Ooh how nice of Christine and you! Jersey is my foe. Maybe this book can help me resolve my differences with it.
Thanks!
amy mayer said:
I get ramped up, blood pulsing when I see pictures of really cool fabrics–My mind starts racing ….this book would def help me focus!
Pingback: Happy Blogiversary! Day Two: Fabric Bliss « The Nerdy Sewist
Njeri said:
This is such a fabulous book. I would love to have a copy, I like that It comes with full size patterns.
Pat Hersl said:
In and out of garments myself–but keep at it! Granddaughters make it a lot easier.
Chloe said:
Thank you so much for this post! I am sooooo eager to get sewing my own clothes but just don’t know where to start. The books I’ve found so far are just too intimidating, so I’d be thrilled to win this one! Congratulations on your 1st anniversary 🙂
Kelly said:
I’ve checked this book out from the Library before and it’s also in my Amazon Wish List! I love it and would love to add it to my library. Oh, and I already like you on FB, but I will put a note there too!
Liz said:
I love this book! I can never have it out long enough from the library, so it would be great to own a copy myself! Congrats on your blogiversary!
Heather Lou said:
What a treat! I would love to try some of the beauties in this book out! Happy Anniversary!
Jean Lowenberger said:
Happy Blogiversary! I just discovered you on the Sew News facebook page. Interestng, I look forward to reading more about the nerdysewist.
ashgrim said:
My inner sewing nerd comes out whenever I see a pattern for something that I absolutely have to have.
Karen A said:
Congratulations on your anniversary. My 18 year old daughter has just got into sewing and I am excited about all the young people who are joining you. My inner nerd comes out when I find a gorgeous fabric that speaks to me.
Linda said:
I have been sewing bags, wallets, toys for my little boy. The only garment I have made is quite a complicated A-line skirt with lining and zip, but that was in a sewing class with help of the teacher. I had to quit the sewing class unfortunately, but I would love to be able to make more garments for myself and my son to wear. This book would be a great help.
Emily said:
I’ve been thinking about getting this book as I’m new to sewing garments. Love your blog!
Randi S said:
After many years on sewing hiatus, I am getting the sewing bug again. I would love to make myself some new clothes! Thanks for the opportunity to have a new book, too!
Eliza said:
Enjoying your blog! Who doesn’t love the challenge of trying a new pattern…for someone else!? I’d love the motivation to sew for these hips!
Jennerosity said:
That book looks fabulous! Just got into garment sewing as an extension of my geek interests in costuming. My first few projects turned out great and now I’ve got the sewing bug along with dreams of all the fabulous stuff I’ll make for myself eventually.
Ginger said:
I think Christine is wonderful & I would love to win her book!! *fingers crossed*
MermaidSews said:
congrats, great dress!
Lexsea said:
Love that you’re doing a week long focus on your beginning sewing days!
Crafty helen said:
Hi – am so pleased to have found your blog. I am a dinosaur and dont ‘do’ facebook, but is it ok for me still to enter? Have signed up as a follower. XX
Sassy T said:
What a nice book. As a beginner who has lost her sewing mojo, this would be a nice addition to my book shelf.
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luciabortz said:
30+ years ago, as a new bride and young mother, I took so much delight in learning to sew and make things for my home and little ones. Seeing a renewed interest in a new generation brings back the delight I once felt, and has now renewed my own interest! I cherish the idea of being involved with this next generation… so I’d love to have the book
Olivia said:
Congratulations! Liked you on Facebook and tweeted about the contest!
nancy of IN said:
I liked you on Facebook. I know what you are saying about garments. I have sewn for years and still struggle to get the garment to fit me. I enjoy sewing for grands and their garments fit fairly well. They wear the clothes!!
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Diane Jettinghoff said:
Even though I’m an advanced sewer, a beginner’s book is always good for gift or to get back to my roots.
Virginia said:
I mainly sew for my daughter and looks like this book needs to be in my library whether I win a copy or not!
Kerri said:
I want to learn to make a skirt as cute as yours!
Susan said:
Making clothes fit my body and not the other way around is what brings out the sewer in me!! Glad I found your blog 🙂
garyandcaitierussell said:
I was actually thinking about purchasing that book, so thank you for your positive reviews! ❤
stabdesigns said:
i’m really excited i just found your blog. and i’m excited to start sewing garments…thanks for the encouragement!
Shannon Reiswig said:
I have a Barnes and Noble gift card that’s been burning a hole in my pocket and I’ve wanted to uuse it on the perfect sewing book, but have not been able to choose one. After reading your rave reviews, if I don’t win this contest, I think this is the book I will buy. Thank you!!
Jayna said:
I love that book! I’ve had my eye on making the baby doll top.
Martha Crouse said:
I just found sewing in March and have had a blast making purses. I would love to tackle a skirt, but am a bit scared after botching a pair of PJ shorts. Thanks for the book tip!
megan fisher said:
I am so happy you tried garment sewing again. Its actually more forgiving than quilting but infinitely more frustrating when the jersey or silk or whatever you’re using develops a mind of its own. Cheers to you and congrats on the anniversary.
Jackie said:
I have been eye balling this book..hmm maybe I will win it:) I recognize the fabrics you used from Fabric Bliss! Very cute
Heather said:
Thank you! This is perfect!
Viv said:
I love what you’ve made so far, really nice fabric choices. That’s what I need to learn the most, choosing fabrics and fixing the fit. Even though I’ve sewn for ages I need to get back to basics and this book looks perfect for any sewer!
craftytammie said:
i think i need this book! i’ve sewed for my daughter but never like anything i make for me!
Shannon said:
I’ve never heard of this book before. Thanks for sharing, I will definitely check it out.
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