Fine Machine Sewing: Easy Ways to Get the Look of Hand Finishing and Embellishing

by Carol Laflin Ahles

This beautiful reference book makes advanced finishing styles accessible to all levels of sewers. Hundreds of color photos and illustrations demonstrate tools, techniques, and tips, as well as completed garments. Fine Machine Sewing provides confidence and inspiration to home sewers looking to expand their repertoire.

Genres: Sewing, Reference, Nonfiction, Crafts

208 pages, Paperback

First published February 9, 2002

Reviews

[Margie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'll probably increase the number of stars for my review once I actually use this reference as I'm sewing.

This is definitely not a book for beginners. But if, for example, you want to replicate the look of entredeux, this book will show you how to do it on your sewing machine, using the Venetian hemstitch with buttonhole twist. The clear instructions and photos will definitely help me take my sewing up a notch.

[Kayleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anyone wanting to improve their garment sewing should start by reading the first chapter of this book. The title might make you think this is all about heirloom garment sewing. In fact all these basic techniques translate to any garment, and give you superior results.

[Patricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best book I've come across to explain using the myriad of stitches in modern sewing machines, plus how to use a narrow hemmer (presser foot) and explores many uses of double and wing needles. It has a broad view (not just baby clothes, costumes or fleece,like many others). A valuable resource for dedicated sewists!

[Kathleen Valentine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the most helpful books about sewing I've ever read. It gives detailed instruction with photos of how to use different presser feet and needles. It explains how these things work plus it gives excellent examples of how they can be used. I especially like that it is not machine specific - I have a Viking and sometimes sewing books don't include them. One of the best books on the art of fine sewing ever.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

I like this book. It explains pressure feet, sewing machine tension and thread. It covers pin tucking, appliqués, scalloping and explains how your machine needs to be set up for perfect results.
It's geared toward people that know how to operate a machine, it would frustrate beginners.

The photographs are very inspiring.

[Judi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I bought this book second hand but it would be worth the full price for the instructions on how to properly use the blind hem stitch alone. This has saved me hours while hemming clothing and curtains.

[Naomi · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good portion of the book discusses hemstitching and seems to be a good resource for such. Also has some good information on decorative edges and hems.

[Jkboyco · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am impressed so far with the details and am anxious to put it to work in my sewing room.

[Annette McIntyre · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book gives lots of hints and tips on how to improve your sewing so that the items produced look professionally done rather than home made.

[Victoria · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lots of great techniques !