Weekend Review: Encyclopedia of Sewing Machine Techniques

 

Encyclopedia of Sewing Machine Techniques /
Nancy Bednar & Jo-Ann Pugh-Gannon 
NY: Sterling, c2007.
336 p.

Another book off my shelf that I sourced at a thrift store, and another looking at the potential of your sewing machine. This one is aimed at experienced sewists, who know the basics - those aren't covered here. 

It's a collection of tips on how to use your sewing machine for all sorts of unusual or advanced techniques, arranged alphabetically and with lots of clear photos to accompany each technique. It covers applique (a variety of approaches) and quilting related ideas fairly extensively, but also has interesting ideas for dressmaking. There are tips on counted cross-stitch and drawn thread style stitching, using machines. And it covers some of the more expected things like bias binding, hem and seam finishes, buttonholes, top-stitching, zippers, eyelets, tucks, etc. 

Each one gives the required machine set up, and recommends the best fabrics, needles, threads, and the necessary presser foot to accomplish the project or technique. There are some lovely effects available with these techniques -- once again my attention was drawn to the fringe foot, and how it can be used in combination with other feet & stitches to create a very heirloom looking insertion. 

There is a newer edition of this book out there, from 2011 I think, and I'm sure it would be more up to date with newer presser feet and options available. If I ever see it I'll take a look, but for now, this one is sufficient to start me off of some more experimentation with my lower-end machine to see what I can do with it. 

I'm having fun looking at these books with their examination of sewing feet and the potential of simple stitches. And of course, adding to my sewing room wish list!