Sew Darn Cute: 30 Sweet & Simple Projects to Sew & Embellish

by Jenny Ryan

Sought after for her one-of-a-kind handmade gifts, Jenny Ryan has created a collection of adorable projects in Sew Darn Cute that anyone can complete in a jiffy. Simple sewing techniques and quick yet stylish projects combine in this appealing book that teaches readers basic sewing skills while they create adorable yet useful items to keep for themselves or give as thoughtful presents. Use surface embellishment techniques including applique and embroidery to transform plain tees or old linens into pretty and unique signature items like a pillowcase purse or a skinny summer scarf; create lovable critters or a set of crafty coasters from scrap fabric and felted sweaters; or clean up the clutter in your craft room with easy-to-sew organizers for your crochet hooks, knitting needles, pins, and more. A focus on using vintage and thrifted, repurposed fabrics shows readers how they can whip up unique sewing projects that are also easy on the planet (and on your pocketbook). Colorful photographs reveal the projects and fabric selections up-close; step-by-step instructions, plus Jenny's tricks and tips, make it easy for home sewers to re-create these sew darn cute items for themselves.

Genres: Crafts, Sewing, Nonfiction, Reference

144 pages, Paperback

First published February 3, 2009

Reviews

[your mom · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was really disappointed with this book.

Although it was filled with beautiful photographs and cute design ideas, the designs themselves were so totally elementary that I am pretty sure you could google and find a free pattern for everything featured. For example, sewing coasters? It's 2 pieces of sqaure fabric sewn together and then top-stitched.

Perhaps a VERY new and beginner level seamstress might like this, or a very young teenager, but to have an entire page dedicated to cutting a letter out of fabric and sewing it onto a white tee shirt seemed like a cop out.

[Lisbeth · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well written book with somewhat interesting projects.

[Katherine · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book disappointed me a bit. I love the cover, had read heaps of reviews, but when I opened it up, I found that many of the projects were same-old, same-old. The bear (top right image on the cover) is definitely worthy of making, but the other projects didn't inspire me. I want easy, cute projects that don't require a huge time commitment or advanced skill set, but I've seen variations of the ones in this book elsewhere.

[Sheila · Rating 3 out of 5]

These are sweet projects, perfect for someone who is still building confidence in their sewing. I will hang on to it for a little while in case my sewing daughters decide to try one of the projects. The directions are VERY clear for beginners, and written in a no-nonsense fashion. I love the photographs of every project, and really appreciate that the finished projects are so beautifully pressed.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just bought this book and I absolutely love it. It has awesome ideas for embellishing and adding your own look to different projects. It has about 30 projects in the book and gives all the directions and supplies you'll need. I haven't started a project yet but they look fun and doable and the great thing is that the tricks/tips/ideas can be used in numerous other projects.

[Jessietaylortanner · Rating 4 out of 5]

There were several projects from this book I want to make, 1 that I already have. I like the overall look of the book, which is important of course, but more importantly the ideas within. I'd probably buy it. If I had any money of course.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute and easy projects for a beginner. Not much I want to make. Has a cute laptop purse pattern.Lots of ideas for embellishing other things like shirts, towels, etc. I love the square bear pattern for a stuffed toy.

[Leah · Rating 4 out of 5]

So darn cute. For reals. From stuffies to refashions, every one of the projects in this book have "Make me!" written all over them. Just need a little more confidence with the sewing machine, and then I'll be ready to tackle these simple, well-instructed projects.

[J · Rating 5 out of 5]

I needed a little inspiration...

[Tamara · Rating 3 out of 5]

Embellished tank tops? That doesn't sound like me at all.

@Mandy Knapp, I think you need to make the fabric button necklace on page 33.

[Stacie · Rating 2 out of 5]

Glad I got this one from the library. Pretty pictures, and "sweet & simple" as the title says, but as a web surfer I've seen variations on most of these ideas before.

[Deirdre K]

Read Emilie's recommendation for the "very new beginner" so sounds just right for me!

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love, Love, Love this one! So many cute, very simple little projects to give as gifts. I am making tank tops as soon as the weather turns nice!

[Meghan · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not really my style. Some of the projects were ok.

[Mandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

some cute things, some non-cute things

[Mckinley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nice photos of simple sewing projects. Enjoyed seeing materials and fabrics used although they aren't my preference.

[Lee · Rating 2 out of 5]

a couple of cute projects - fabric cuff bracelets & eyeglass cozy.

[Jocelynne Broderick · Rating 3 out of 5]

Tons of cute projects!

[Stephanie Denison · Rating 4 out of 5]

So well titled because the projects in this book are so darn cute!

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I actually made something from this book, and it turned out super cute!