I am over-the-moon excited to finally announce the publication of my first book! Sewing in a Straight Line: Quick & Crafty Projects You Can Make by Simply Sewing Straight, published by Potter Craft, will hit shelves everywhere July of this year.
I’ve had “write a book” on my to-do list for, oh, like seven years now, or maybe my whole life, so I’m thrilled that this is finally a reality. Can I just say, YAY!
Sewing in a Straight Line was born when I realized that although I really like to sew, and I’ve been sewing pretty much my whole life, the vast majority of what I make is sewn with straight seams only. No reason – just because lots of projects require nothing more. I also knew that people were often telling me they’d like to learn how to sew, but that it seemed so hard. And then I was like, lightbulb moment! I could write a book where I show people all the things they can make by sewing straight lines only, and then they wouldn’t think sewing is so hard after all, and we would all live happily ever after in crafty bliss!
I wasn’t sure if it could be done — would I end up with a book full of boxy, blocky, lame-looking “beginner” projects? It turns out, thank goodness, the answer is no! I made a collection of 28 projects that I truly believe are sophisticated and cute. Take the cover skirt, for example. It features a tailored waistband, pleats and button plackets — I think it’s super adorable, and it’s made with straight lines only. Can you believe it?
Inside the book there’s lots more where that came from, like a silk chiffon blouse, sundresses, totes, quilts, curtains, pillows, stuffed toys, a faux-leather purse, and much more. I worked really hard on writing instructions that are easy to understand, so I hope that even beginners will be able to take this book, dust off their sewing machine, and sew away. (There are also quite a few challenges in there too, so I think non-beginners will find plenty of inspiration as well.)
But enough about me! What about you? Well, for starters, the book is available NOW on pre-order, so you can reserve your copy today! You can order it from your favorite retailer, including Barnes & Noble, Amazon, Borders, or from a local independent book retailer through IndieBound.
And watch this space for lots of book goodies to come over the next few months, including fun videos, tons of how-to’s, and even some juicy giveaways. It’s gonna be a sewing party up in here!
For now, I have a question for you. What are the sewing techniques you’d most like to learn? What are your greatest stumbling blocks? What would you love to make? Let me know — I’m preparing some how-to’s and would really love to have your input. Thanks!
xoxo
Brett
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:D im so excited for this book!
Fantastic Brett! I learned to sew at about 10 years old, but haven't touched it since! I'm a beginner all over again. I'm very excited for your book to help me start over and keep going! My biggest hurdle is learning how to use my machine. (I need a new one and plan to buy one that offers lessons). I don't know why I'm so intimidated by the "tension" issue.
Congratulations! I'm very happy for you. I'm sure it will be a success, and the first of many.
Congratulations on your book! Such an accomplishment!
Congratulations! I look forward to buying it and seeing all the great projects you've put together. I've been a big fan ever since your duvet cover tutorial on design*sponge. :)
Congrats! Your tutorials on Design Sponge are so clear and your demos on TV are equally clear. So I expect this to be a great resource for home sewers.
woo hoo! Congratulations! Must feel great to have it finally reaching this point. Can't wait to see it in person.
I just bought some fabric this past weekend for floor pillows; I would say straight-line sewing is my forte as well.
Can't wait to see it Brett! See you in May!
Hello, Brett!
Congratulations on your book, this is great news!
I have a love/hate relationship with sewing: love all about it but my brain finds it really hard so I found myself buying BURDA Magazine every month but not making use of it.
I can sew pillows and stuff like that but my dream is to make my own clothes.
So, your idea for this book was a very good one :)
What a great, fresh sewing book concept! I'm a lifelong sewer myself but recently have done little…knitting is a newfound obsession. I love the idea of sneaking in some simple sewing that yields worthwhile projects. Very excited for this book – congratulations!
I am late to this post but I wish you the best on your new role as sewing instructor/encourager. I would like to know how to make a pattern for a simple article of clothing from an already made piece. I have a few skirts that I love and have worn out. I can't find them anywhere and would love to learn how to make a pattern for them (e.g., what materials do I need, what type of style is best suited – no pun intended – to a project like this, and how to ensure the material I choose for the project is compatible with the pattern).
Your other sewing projects are so tractable and fun, I am looking forward to your book.