Well hello there, folks! Sorry about my sudden abrupt absence (I wouldn’t normally even mention it, but I got a few concerned emails over the week, so I thought I would clarify!) – we spent the last weekend of March moving house, and then the past week painting and unpacking and then throwing our first party in the new place. I actually haven’t been at my sewing machine since before I went to New York last month, and I’m kind of going crazy! The good news is, I’m pretty much completely unpacked and set up at this point (I told myself I wasn’t allowed to sew until the house was set up – talk about a good motivator!). The bad news is, I don’t have anything new to show y’all just yet. The awesome news is, I do have a giveaway! So there’s that! Bear with me here and regular posting will resume shortly, I promise.
Sewing for Fashion Designers is one of the newest titles from one of my favorite sewing book publishers, Laurence King. The beautiful hardcover book has over 300 pages of information, covering everything you need to know about sewing from a professional production standpoint.
I admit, when I received my copy in the mail – my first thought was, “For real? Another book on learning how to sew? How many more of these do we need, really?” And while I still agree with that to a certain extent, this particular title doesn’t necessarily fall into that category. This book won’t teach you how to thread your domestic machine and it doesn’t include any sewing patterns. What it is is a dictionary’s-worth of sewing knowledge, beautifully photographed and illustrated, giving you all the information you could possibly need to create clothing the same way it is done in the industry. To be honest, I found it really fascinating.
The book is a bit textbook-like in how it’s laid out – the first chapter covers tools and equipment, working with patterns and cutting out your fabric. Chapter 2 is a comprehensive overview of fabric, notions, and supporting materials (such as interfacing for tailoring a jacket) and underpinnings. Chapter 3 covers stitches – both hand and machine – as well as finishing seams. Chapter 4 is for general techniques, such as setting in a sleeve or creating a welt pocket. Finally, chapter 5 explores fabric and cut-specific techniques, like working with sequined fabrics or fur. There’s a good mix of both illustration and photography, plus little tips scattered through the pages. There are also plenty of runway photos to illustrate the techniques and fabrics described in a particular section.
As someone who has an aggressively edited sewing library (I can – and will – buy sewing books all day, but there comes a time in every sewer’s life when you realize you gotta let some of ’em go so they can be loved and appreciated by someone else, rather than gather dust on their shelves, you know?), I really like this book and I definitely made some space for it in my collection. I love that it covers an entire range of techniques and I love how the instructions are laid out and how easy they are to follow. It doesn’t cover fit – but I’m ok with that (I think fitting really belongs in its own book – that’s a whole world of knowledge that can’t possibly be covered in 20 pages). I love that it’s not necessarily geared toward the beginner female sewer – it speaks from a fashion industry standpoint, and holy shit there are actually photos of men sewing in this book. It’s also, like I said, just fascinating to flip through. I’ve been reading it, well… like a book. Ok, a novel. Whatever.
(psst – click the photos to enlarge)
GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED
Like I said at the beginning of this post, there’s a giveaway here! Laurence King has been kind enough to offer a second copy to one lucky winner, yay! If you’d like to throw your name in the hat to win your own copy of Sewing for Fashion Designers, just leave a comment on this post. You don’t have to say anything in particular, unless you want to tell me your favorite joke! (please – I need some new jokes!) This giveaway is open to US READERS ONLY (sorry, my international friends! I love you!) and I will close the comments one week from today, Monday, April 13, 2015 at 6:30 AM CST.
GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED
If giveaways aren’t your jam, you can also get a copy of the book on Laurence King’s website and, of course, good ol’ Amazon
Good luck, everyone! In the meantime, you can bet I’ll be back puttering around the new sewing room – now that I’m unpacked, I can finally start sewing! I even made a cardigan last night! Life is good 😀
Note: Sewing for Fashion Designers was given to me by Laurence King, in exchange for this review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own 🙂
LLADYBIRD 
Glad to see you back 🙂
Welcome back.
I have no jokes…other than the bad one that isn’t so called vacation:(… I could use something to cheer me up…this book could do the trick. I miss my Nina(Betnina) so much…I need to sew so bad. Many thanks and congrats on the new place!
Glad to hear from you–started to worry. Congratulations on the new abode.
Here’s a joke I recently learned. “how do you top a car? You tep on the brake tupid!”
As someone just starting out with sewing, I found your blog via a search on Google and so glad I did! I have read through your posts and love the styles of clothing you have made as well as the fabric choices. I even connected to Made through your sight and purchased my first pattern 🙂
Book looks good. Thanks!
Congrats on the new house!
The book sounds like a great read!
Looks like a great book; the sort that answers a lot of questions a home sewist might have.
This looks like a great resource!
So, there’s two fish in a tank. One says to the other “do you know how to drive this thing?”
Ha! This is the one my husband’s been using lately: I shot an elephant in my pajamas this morning….What he was doing in my pajamas, I have no idea.
Classic!
Looks like a fascinating book!
Hello. I am recently getting back to clothing construction and could really use a good book to update my how to collection, and this one looks quite nice. Reading your blog has given me the confidence to get back to making my own clothing. I have a jacket cut out and a skirt coming up next. Then I would l like to tackle a dress. Thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us.
I’ve recently been thinking, but just thinking ;), about making a corset. Have no freakin’ idea when and where I might wear it. I’d love to have this book in my studio library. My email is genevieve1designs at gmail dot com. Thanks Lauren AND congrats on a new home!
Oh, looks fascinating!
What comes before Part B? Partayyyyyy!!!
LOL
I enjoy reading your blog!! It is inspires. I would love to see pictures of you new sewing room
Congratulations on moving!
This looks like a book that would like to be on my shelf.
Have noticed your absence and worried about you. Glad your move has gone well and you are settling into your new space. I enjoy reading your blog but would also love reading this book 🙂 Thanks for the opportunity to enter the giveaway!
Congratulations on your new home! This book looks awesome!
I have missed you! Was getting ready to check your block to see if I had fallen off your email list. Hope your new place is a little better insulated!
What’s brown and sticky? … a stick!
What’s a foot long and slippery? … a slipper!
Man, moving sucks. Congratulations on being done. 🙂
I got no jokes – but this looks like a fabulous book, fingers crossed!
I’m based in Edinburgh, so can’t enter the giveaway but just had to say how ace that dress is on the front cover. I will be looking out for this book when it comes in to my local store just to spy on that a little more. Thank you for pointing it out!
Plus, good work on the move. We are moving in a fortnight and currently packing up in the weekend with the best weather all year so far. I’m on here because I’m SO.OVER.IT!! 😃
Looks Awesome!
Moving is definitely one of life’s challenges, but a great time to edit! This will be a wonderful addition to my Library, thank you!
Glad to have you back!
Looks like a great book!
What’s green and sings? Elvis Parsley!
Ok, I’ll play.
Congratulations on your new place. Will we see pictures soon? Especially your sewing room.
I will be sharing pictures of the sewing room as soon as it’s ready to show 🙂 I still need to finish painting and decorating haha 🙂
oh too fun! Congratulations on your new spot!! This looks like an amazing book!
Ooh, looks like a great book!
Congrats on the new house, can’t wait to see your new sewing room! This book is the bomb! I learned a lot already just from the pages you posted. My brain could explode if I have the whole book, but I’m willing to take that chance! Knowledge always wins! So a skeleton walks into a bar; asks for a beer and a mop.
what do you call a mexican with a rubber toe? Roberto LOLOL
what do you call two mexicans playing basketball? Juan on Juan
i could go on but ill stop
This book sounds super interesting!
Q: Why did the cookie go to the doctor’s office?
A: It was feeling crummy.
Would love this!
Looks like a great reference 🙂
Sounds like a really cool book with lots of information – something to feed the brain!
Looks like a good book. Good luck in your new home.
This book looks amazing! Your blog has been a great inspiration.
I need this book in my life. It will fit right in with my motivational sewing books.
Help! I need a sewing resource like nobody’s business! 🙂
Glad nothing happened to you, love your candid views and sense of humor and for giving me the courage to sew for myself. Thanks
Thanks for one of the funniest sewing blogs! I’ve returned to sewing clothing after a long absence. Book would be helpful.
There are never too many sewing books! thanks!
Book looks awesome!
Moving isn’t fun, but getting moved in is! Glad you’re all settling into your new place.
I’m trying to improve my sewing skills, so throw my name in that hat too, please.
Awesome, thanks for the chance to win!
Good all alt country band name: Stitch in the Ditch
Looks like a great book to add to my shelf. Thanks for the review!
That is some pretty pretty goodness right there!
Please put me into your drawing. Thx for update — was wondering where you’ve been!
My mom was getting annoyed because of all the mending that was piling up for her to do.
I said, “You seamstressed.”
🙂
Glad to have you back Lladybird!
I’ve been eying that book – it looks very interesting! And of course, right now I can’t think of a joke….. I will later though!
Count me in.
What do you call a boomerang that doesn’t come back?
A stick!
Ha.ha.ha.
Congrats on the move! What do you call the spirit of a dead rooster?
A pultry-geist. Yeah, that was pretty bad. Anyway, that book looks amazing!
Thank you for offering to help us all expand our sewing bookshelves. (Oh, please, someone stop me….)
I would love to win a copy of this book. Hope you are enjoying your new digs!
Best wishes for happiness in your new place. Would love to win this book! Thanks for having the giveaway.
I can only remember jokes that are pretty bad.
Two sheep are talking and the first one says: “baahh” and the other replies “that’s exactly what I was going to say!”
This looks so awesome! It’s exactly what I’ve been looking for as an experienced seamstress who wants to learn new techniques! Thank you for doing this giveaway!
Welcome back!
Okay so I’m raising 30 chickens (my first time). I need humor too, to survive all the poop smell. So,
Why did the rooster go to kfc? Because he wanted to see a chicken strip. Ha!!
Amy-
Mayendesigns@gmail.com
Yesss! This book is exactly what I need in my life!
The book looks great! So tossing my name in the hat!
Also, congrats on your new home 🙂
Please add my name to the pool! Would love to get my hands on that book :). Ps-apologies, but I have no good jokes, wah wah.
I would love to add this book to my library! Thanks for doing a giveaway!
Entering the giveaway. This seems great for non-sewers or beginner sewers too! While I prob will never replicate these techniques due to skill level, it’s still neat to learn they exist!
What’s black and red and hangs from the ceiling? Amateur electrician. I know, a little morbid, but for some reason it cracks me up every time. Happy new home and new studio! 🙂
The more you know, there more there is to know…. I would love this book! PS From the pics of your old sewing room, I thought it was a nice space, I look forward in anticipation to photos of how you organize the new room. Sorry, no jokes, I’m terrible at remembering them.
Wow the book looks awesome!! Here’s my groaner joke:
Q: How many tickles does it take to make an octopus laugh?
A: Tentacles!
Har har har
What time does Sean Connery like to show up at Wimbledon?
Tennish.
Anyway….nice looking book!
What do you call a crepe that makes lame jokes?
…A puncake!
Hahahahahahahahaha literally crying
Hi Lauren,
I always do that too. I won’t let myself sew until I’ve got my work done, it gets results ! I want this book pretty bad. Love your blog. Sandi
Why couldn’t the ghost get his wife pregnant?
Because he had a Hollow weenie
Hope you are enjoying the new house!
What a beautiful looking book! And it’s my birthday this week! 🙂 No joke!
Yay! Happy birthday! 😀
hooray! I’d love to be entered to win, looks like a great resource. Excited to see your new sewing space setup soon (I’m way into seeing people’s sewing rooms)!
I am terrible at jokes, so I’ll spare you. But thanks so much for the opportunity to win this book! It looks fantastic!
I’d love to see pics of your new sewing room 🙂
A man was walking down the street with a lobster when another man stopped him and said “hey, what are you going to do with that lobster?” “I’m going to take it home and have it for dinner” the first man replied. Then the lobster piped in and said “I’ve already had dinner, how about we go to a movie instead?”
Congrats on your new digs!
Thanks for the book give a-away.
Why didn’t the skeleton go to the Halloween party? Because he had no body to go with.
My only kid friendly joke: Why do gorillas have such big nostrils? Because they have big fingers….
A rope walks into the bar and the bartender says, “Hey, we don’t serve ropes here.” The rope walks out, ties himself up, and toussles his hair. He walks back into the bar and the bartender says “Aren’t you that same rope from a few minutes ago?” And the rope says “I’m a frayed knot.”
This book looks so interesting! I would love to win it!
Thank you!
I just love your blog and your taste in clothes. Good luck settling in your place.
Glad to see you back!!
Hi Lauren, Your blog is so informative and entertaining…..I’m glad you’re back. Your humor reminds me of my beautiful daughters and your Bernina reminds me of my beautiful mom. As a returning maker (just can’t use the term “sewer”, used to work for a water/wastewater engineering firm), I am continually inspired by you. That book would be spectacular in my soon-to-be finished sewing room! And we are all looking forward to seeing your new space.
Jen, NY
What’s orange and sounds like a parrot?
A Carrot!
Terrible third-grade jokes aside, I think this book would be fascinating to read.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this. I think it could be really useful in terms of finessing techniques etc so I’m throwing my hat in! Hope the new sewing space is inspiring.
I’m terrible at remembering jokes, so I have none to share, but that means I’ll always laugh at a joke because if I have heard it before I forgot! Thanks for the chance to win 🙂
The is a classic, and was a fav of my women’s co-op in college (we told it over and over again):
What do you call cheese that doesn’t belong to you?
Nacho cheese!
It’s a great pitty this giveaway is for US readers only. It looks interesting and similar in theme to a book I briefly reviewed on my blog -Professional Sewing Techniques for Designers by Julie Cole and Sharon Czachor. 2nd edition. Published by Bloomsbury.
This looks fascinating! And interesting timing, since my sister and I just had a conversation this weekend about how many fashion and costume designers don’t actually know how to sew, but can still be super successful in their fields, which seems counterintuitative to me, but is true!
It sounds like a really interesting book!
My aunt told a really funny Jakey joke but it requires a glass of wine and a PA Dutch accent (the wine is so she can keep the accent for the whole joke) but this one is in the dialect and the language (not quite as funny but still a good punchline) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2KIUYPIQgzE
looks like an awesome book that I would love to own
Here’s a joke for ya, from a magnet a friend gave me: “I consider myself a beginner sewer. I like to begin sewing projects but I never finish them.” Thanks for the review!
I would love to have this book 🙂
Looks like great bedtime reading!
We recently got rid of our vacuum cleaner. It was just gathering dust.
Congrats on the move! Too bad this book doesn’t include patterns because that vaguely straightjacket-esque top on the cover is really calling my name 🙂
Good luck getting everything all setup in your new place!
This book looks rad! Congrats on finishing unpacking; I just completely rearranged my house (sewing room/bedroom switch) and it felt like a mini-move, but that feeling of sewing in a freshly organized space is oh-so-sweet. I’m the worst with jokes, but here’s a short one for ya: A dyslexic guy walks into a bra.
What do kid monsters do when they get home from school? Use up all their scream time.
I have no jokes. Yes, I’m lame.
Throw my name in that hat! I love technical tombs and text-y books. I can’t wait tto see pics from your new digs too!
I would love a chance to win this book. ☺️
I have been following your blog for a while and this is the first time I am making an effort to be in a giveaways (God knows how many times I have seen bloggers offer giveaways but none interest me as much as this one) so I really hope to win. Having a mom who is a professional tailor doesn’t mean I ended up as one. Here I am, a self-taught and DIY enthusiast, I would love to get a nice book as reference, especially if it is recommended by you.
Ah, I cant think of any foo actual jokes because everyone I know (myself included) just uses really bad puns as they’ll fit
I recently rediscovered sewing and have a growing fabric stash. I would love to learn more about fabrics and sewing to help feel more comfy with sewing with professional finishings and fancier fabrics (e.g., silks). Thanks for the opportunity!
If i win you can ship it to my US address and I’ll pick it up this summer. Congrats on the new house.
Congrats on your move….and already had a get together there? Impressive!! 🙂
Im sure I could learn a few things from that book.
I’m terrible with jokes, but I wish I had one for you! I’ll have to read these comments and try to pick up some new ones. I’d love to get the book though, lol 🙂 Thanks!
I don’t know any sewing related jokes, so you get music ones instead:
What happens when you drop a piano on an army base? A flat Major
What happens when you drop a piano down a mine shaft? A flat Minor
Would love a copy of this 🙂 Thanks!!
My favorite joke. Of all time. Ever. I tell it to my husband on a regular basis to make myself laugh. 🙂
What’s green and has wheels?
(Insert answer … usually, “I dunno, what?”)
Grass. I lied about the wheels.
Okay, here’s my joke contribution. I work in an office full of lawyers (and am one myself) and we all found it hilarious. I cannot speak to how funny it is to normal people 🙂
An engineer died and went before St. Peter at the pearly gates. St. Peter took a look in his book and couldn’t find the engineer’s name. So he told him, “I’m very sorry, but you’re not in here, you’ll have to go down to hell.” A while later, God asked St. Peter about the engineer and St. Peter told Him what happened. God told St. Peter, “That’s a mistake, he’s supposed to be here. We have to get him back.” So God called up Satan and told him, “Look there was a mistake, that engineer should be up here in heaven. We need you to send him back.” Satan said to God, “No way! Since he got here, we have running water, we have air conditioning, there’s no way I’m sending him back.” So God said to Satan, “Well, if you don’t send him back, I’m going to have to sue you.” Satan responded, “Oh yeah, good luck finding a lawyer up there!”
I have a bad joke to share.
Knock,knock!
Who’s there?
Europe.
Europe who?
No, You’re a poo!
You’re welcome;)
I’m so awesome – but even I sometimes need help 😉
WOW! Lots of competition for this book. I would LOVE to have it and pretend I am a fashion designer.
Cheryl
Q: How do you get an elephant into the fridge?
1. Open door.
2. Insert elephant.
3. Close door.
Q: How do you get a giraffe into the fridge?
1. Open door.
2. Remove elephant.
3. Insert giraffe.
4. Close door.
Q. The lion, the king of the jungle, decided to have a party. He invited all the animals in the jungle, and they all came except one. Which one?
A. The giraffe, because he was still in the fridge.
Q: How do you know there are two elephants in your fridge?
A: The door won’t close.
Q: How do you know there are three elephants in your fridge?
A: There’ll be one waiting outside in the Mini.
Q: How can you tell that an elephant has been in your fridge?
A: By the footprints in the butter.
Love the pics of material sources! What did the ghost do when he won the lottery? He lost his sheet!
Sorry I don’t have a joke but it sounds like a great book!
Looks like a great book. Thanks for sharing a copy with us.
I have a joke suitable for use with small children–How do you get out of an elephant’s stomach? You run around and around till you’re all pooped out.
Would love to have the book.
Ugh – didn’t mean to be anonymous.
Lauren!
————–
Knock knock?
Who’s there?
Britney Spears
Britney Spears who?
Knock Knock
Who’s there?
Oops I did it again.
——————-
Love you Lauren! Thanks!
A new sewer here – with a desire to get into garment sewing! And a joke (best told by my boyfriend’s 8 year old son).
“Wanna hear my duck call?”
*holds hands to face as to make a duck call*
“HEY DUCK!”
I could use this book 🙂
what a hoot!
Is your new sewing room as awesome as your last one?
It’s preeeeetty awesome! 🙂
Nice! I’d like to win this book; I haven’t been disappointed with a LK book yet.
This book looks great! Sorry, can’t think of any good jokes
The book looks really cool.
Hi Lauren, the books looks amazing. Great pictures and stuffed with information! Who wouldn’t want to win that??!!
I don’t have a favorite joke but I thought this might make you smile…just because you knit (as do I)…check out http://www.granniesinc.co.uk/about_team.php the Grannies who knit web site. How awesome is that?!
Although they’re in the UK I am British but I live in the US so totally eligible for the giveaway :o)
Words go here.
And I absolutely want a shot at this book!
Joke for the book: What do you do when your confronted by an angry mob of clowns? Go for the juggler. (found on my kitchen chalkboard wall by a dear friend who used to live with us…) Happy week!
Looks like a great book. Thanks for the opportunity!
Q: How many ears does Picard have?
A: Three. A right ear. A left ear. And a final front ear.
I love Star Trek jokes.
Looks like an incredibly valuable reference that I don’t want to do without!
Want to win this book!
Thanks for the opportunity
You are always an inspiration! Love your blog.
Donna
looks like its a great book! congrats on the house!
Thanks for the review. It’s so hard to guess what a book will be like from Amazon reviews.
I appreciate the chance to win this book. Thanks!
Best of luck in your new home.
And thanks for sharing so much of your sewing on the blog – always helpful.
My husband & I just bought a house, so I’m moving too & getting my first sewing room! Parallel life points?
Share some photos of your new digs!
Congrats on the new place!
Cool book. Looking forward to seeing pics of the new sewing room.
Looks neat! I would be very interested in seeing what the book has to say. I collect sewing books as well, but fortunately I get most of mine from the library and take notes on the really important stuff. Much less expensive!
Oo pick me, pick me!
Yup, I too would like to own this book. Getting it for free would be great!
Enjoy your new home and that book sounds so cool.
This book looks really interesting! Thanks for the chance to win! 🙂
The thought of moving always depresses me, so I think that calls for TWO stupid jokes:
1) Two guys walk into a bar. The third one ducks.
2)”Knock Knock” “Who’s there?” “The doorbell repairman!”
Congrats on your new home!
This is from my 8 year old daughter: Why didn’t the skeleton cross the street? Because he didn’t have the guts!
During a visit to the mental asylum, I asked the director
“How do you determine whether or not a patient should be institutionalized”?
“Well”, he said, “We fill up a bathtub with water and then offer a teaspoon, a teacup, and a bucket to the patient and ask him to empty the bathtub.”
“Oh, I get it”, I said. “A normal person would use the bucket because it’s bigger than the spoon or cup.”
“No”, said the director, “A normal person would pull the plug. Do you want a bed near the window?”
Such discipline to get your house all unpacked before you start to sew.
would love to read this book 🙂 Congrats on your new place!
What did the vinegrette say when the refrigerator door was opened?
Shut the door I’m dressing…..
Would love the book.
Interested in the book, thank you!
What did the fish say when it ran into the wall?
Dam!
Interesting book. I think it would definitely help my sewing!
Ooh!! I just love mew sewing books!! Its not really a “joke ” but I would rather have a bottle in front of me than a frontal lobotomy! Cheers!
This looks like a wonderful compilation of a number of my college textbooks – a fashion merchandising major who has sewn for almost 50 years!
Ahem. My two favorites…
One snowman to another…You’re right. I smell carrots too!
Did you hear about the two antennas that got married? The wedding wasn’t much, but the the reception was incredible.
Q: What do you call 40 guys watching the Super Bowl?
A: The Chicago Bears!
Congrats on the new place, please post pics. Thanks to you and King for the giveaway, fingers crossed.
What color blue weighs the least?
Light blue.
Ya, I did it – quoted a 7 year old. Happy moving!
Here goes nothing.. What is black and white and black and white and black and white? (A penguin rolling down a hill.) What is black and white and laughing? (The penguin that pushed the other one down the hill!) The book looks awesome 🙂
I’m a sewing book-a-holic too. Would soooo love this too….
You’ve probably heard this joke before, but it’s the only one I know, so it’s my favorite: “What do you call cheese that isn’t yours? NACHO CHEESE!” Haha get it, Not-yo cheese? Haha, ohhh.. yeah, lame. But I laugh every time. Anyway, congrats on the move and I can’t wait to see what fun things you’ll sew up next!
Have you heard about those new corduroy pillowcases? THEY’RE MAKING HEADLINES. I got a million of ’em, waka waka waka…
I would like this, please
Hi Llady!
Why do girls wear makeup and perfume?
Cuz they’re ugly and and they stink!
<3,
jacks
I’m heading out your way in June! Watch out!
ugh I live in canada so I’m exempt from this contest but anyways:
wanna hear a joke about pizza? …..nah it’s too cheesy
A frog walks into a bank for a meeting with his loan consultant, Patricia Whack. He says he needs a new loan, but he doesn’t have anything for collateral except this small figurine left to him by his grandfather, which would be worth a lot of money if he were to sell it. His consultant seems hesitant and has to call her supervisor over. He seems immediately interested in the figurine and declares after a brief moment of review, “That’s a knick knack Patty Whack, give that frog a loan!”
You are right about all the beginning sewing books…there has to be something for people with some sewing under their belt. Count me in on the give away. 🙂
A neutron walks into a bar, sits down, and orders a drink, then asks the bartender, “how much?” Bartender says, “for you: no charge!”
Congratulations on your new place!
Oh goody, something to distract me from taxes!
Why can’t boy ghosts have children? Because they have hallow-weenies!
How many mice does out take to screw in a lightbulb?
2, But I don’t know how they got in there!
Just discovered your inspiring website… and first thing to discover?.. a fab book !
As a beginner I still appreciate basic books, however it does not mean that all of them have to be the same. This book looks like a great addition to beginner’s library. Thank you for this giveaway!
Welcome back, and congrats on the new place! (Not so good with the jokes, since geek/music humor is what usually cracks me up the most. And that’s mostly reference-based.)
Yay sewing book! This looks like a useful addition to any sewing library.
So, how is your new sewing nest???? We wanna see it NOW! I think we deserve a post on it (forget about sewing for now, haha) after so many photos outside your old shabby shed, don’t you think so? OK, OK, it was beautiful inside and cool outside, but your new sewing space will be an improvement, won’t it? So, come on girl, give us a tour 😉
Hahaha well it’s not quite ready to show yet 🙂 (I need to finish painting it, for one, and there’s some more decorating I’d like to do) I promise it will get it’s own post once it is ready, though!
Looks like a great book!
So glad you are back…A new sewing room! Ok…a new house, too. But, a new sewing room! Congrats! 😉
The book looks awesome! Would love a copy. 🙂
Gutted that I can’t be in your gang – the curse of living in the UK!
Am old to sewing but new to your blog and really enjoying it … who needs a free book?!?
My second favourite joke of all time:
A very shy girl with a hunchback is loathe to go out because everyone stares at her. Her friends persuade her to go to a dance with them. She’s standing to the side on her own when a boy looks her way, he sees the hunch of her back then sees her smile and goes over to her, “Would you like to dance?” the boys says, “Wouldn’t I ! Wouldn’t I !” says the girl, “Hunchback!! Hunchback !!” snarls the boy ….
I’d love this 🙂
Welcome back! Glad to see you posting again!
What’s a dentist’s favorite time? 2:30 (Tooth-hurty)
Bring it on Laurence! Thanks for this interesting book and review Lladybird!
No jokes because I cannot remember any complete jokes. But the book would tickle me pink.
Hope to check out a sewing class of yours soon!
You will love having a sewing room! and I would love to have the book!, Mary Beth
Hey, congratulations on your move/ prompt settling in. Congrats also on your making that top 100 sewing bloggers list! I’m loving following you all even though I don’t have machine yet. I feel like I’ll be really ready when I get one though! A great book wouldn’t hurt either!
Yay on moving and having a new sewing room and new adventures! Eager to hear more!
Thanks for the detailed review!
As a seasoned stitcher it’s nice to see a book geared for more than a beginning sewer. It thrills me to see so many still involved and interested in making their own clothing for themselves and family. I’m lucky to be able to sew for my daughter and granddaughter who love retro looks.
Wow, amazing book! 🙂
Sorry, no jokes here – I’m a sleep-deprived mom of four month old twin boys. But when I get a minute, I’m totally going to read all the comments on your post to get some new material. I’m sure in my sleep-deprived state, even the corniest jokes will seem hilarious. 🙂
Just starting following your blog, great stuff 🙂
A joke from my childhood:
Three men are hiking on a mountain when they find a magic lamp. They rub it and a genie comes out. He agrees to give them each one wish of what they’d like to turn into, but they have to say the wish while jumping off the cliff. The first man runs, jumps, and says “I wish I were a raven!” *Poof* He turns into a raven and flies off into the distance.The second man runs, jumps and says “I wish were an eagle!” *Poof* he turns into an eagle and flies off majestically. The third man runs, and just as he is about to jump he trips over a rock sending him over the cliff yelling “Oh sh*t!”
Or something close to that… Har Har
Would love to read this book!
A bad but short joke: what do you call an alligator in a vest? An Investigator. Harhar. I would love to see some of the fancy techniques in this book.
Great to hear that you are doing well. I’d love to get my hands on this book! ❤
I would love to read this book.
Now that is a sewing book I may actually use! The other ones just languish on my wish list because I never remember why I put them there and can’t justify a purchase.
What do clouds wear under their rain coats?
….
Thunderwear!
Thanks for the chance to win!
I want to learn more about princess seams!
I promise this book would be well-loved in my home.
I don’t currently have a good sewing reference book, and I feel this would an excellent one for me to have around.
Welcome back! I’d love this book for my daughter who is majoring in fashion design.
The book looks puuuurdy sweet! Joke: I wrote this joke with a dull pencil, so it’s pointless 😁
This book looks so thorough! As for my favorite joke right now…. Q: How did the tree feel in spring? A: Re-Leaved! hahahah
I’m really lucky that my mom taught us three kids to sew. She made most all of our clothes in the 60’s, probably until I was about 10. I wish we had more fabric choices today.
Luckily I have no jokes – that book looks really interesting and I’m glad you’re settling in!
Congrats on surviving your move! The book looks fantastic – I’d love to get my hands on it! 🙂 Thanks for reviewing!
Count me in for the book — it seems great!
I would love a complimentary copy of this book! Otherwise I may have to purchase it on Amazon!
Congrats on your new place! This looks like an amazing book- It would be perfect in my small collection of sewing books that I actually own. Sounds like there is a lot of really great information in it. 🙂
Where does the General keep his Army?
In his sleevey!!!!!!!
Lol 😂
This one does look like a keeper.
Why do girls wear makeup and perfume?
Because they’re ugly and they stink.
My favorite childish joke. 🙂
Sounds like a great book. I have noticed too many “beginner” books out there – but not enough guides for someone who wants to know how cuffs are attached on a man’s shirt professionally.
I’m new to your blog! I love the dresses that you have made!
love your sight. Congrats on the new house.
Cool! Looks like an interesting book.
Boycott shampoo! Demand the REAL poo!
Looks like a great book!
What is a whale’s favorite sandwich? Peanut butter and jellyfish!
Where does a fish store his money? In the River Bank!
Hooray on moving! I hope you give us a picture of the new abode. The book looks likes a good read and a great resource.
I’m glad you’re back. Congrats on your new place ! I hope your new yard will give you a good photo studio. The book for the Giveaway looks neat and perfect for the advancing sewer.
Hm… Can’t come up with any jokes, but that looks like a great book!
Hopefully you’ll get settled in and back to sewing soon.
What is a bug’s least favorite food?
SQUASH!
Would love to have this!
What do you call cheese that doesn’t belong to you?
Nacho cheese.
Better one:
What do you call a cross between an elephant and a rhino?
Elephino (Hell if I know)!
Thanks for the opportunity to comment for a chance at the lovely book. Your blog is very inspiring. Thank you!
How do you get a tissue to dance? Put a little boogie in it!
So glad you got all moved in and unpacked enough to sew! Thanks for the giveaway. I’m afraid I don’t have any good/ new jokes for you but I have plenty of old/ lame/ sciency ones and puns. “A lymphocyte is invited to a monocyte’s house. ‘Would you like some coffee?’ asks the monocyte. The lymphocyte replies, ‘I’m more of a tea (T) cell.'” lol
Thank you for the inspiring blog and the exciting giveaway!
yay, my favorite blogger ! ;-D
First, the joke (courtesy of my 10 yr old) Q: What did the cross-eyed teacher say?
A: Waaa! I can’t control my pupils!!!
Second, a question (courtesy of me!): Where did you get your blog name?
Ladybird is an old nickname; the extra L was just me being a smart ass 🙂 I originally had a clothing line under the same name when I started this blog.
Love it!
Thanks!
I’ll be completely silly and be the kid jumping up and down saying ‘pick me, pick me’.
What’s ‘a the difference between bird flu and swine flu?
Bird flu requires tweet-ment while swine flu requires oink-ment.
Note – I may be 30 but I have the sense of humor of a 6 year old:)
What did one orphan say to the other?
“Quick Robin, get in the Batmobile!”
No joke, just looking to get lucky.
I love your blog. It gives me so much inspiration!
It’s good to see you back. This title is going on my wish list.
The whole moving thing! URG!! Thing is… I’m desperately trying to get my sewing room in order after my move so I can get on with it. Sad part is I now have way more sewing room, too! Been a reader for a long time now and enjoy your blog tremendously! Can’t wait to see pics of your new sewing space. Feelin’ the moving pain and need inspiration. Glad to have you back posting! The Vogue patterns review had me rolling!
Looks great, I’d love a copy! I like that it’s a combination of photos and illustrations.
Always looking to improve my skills!
hey ladybird! first, just love following you and your spot on and edgy posts!
THANKS FOR THAT! sorry, wish i had a good joke to share…not my strength!
love to hear a good one too, though! please enter me in your contest…the book looks great! I teach young kids to sew and always love a great reference! thanks girl!
So glad that I discovered your blog! Your tutorials and “Lurk My Style” section are great!
That book looks excellent, and I would love a copy!
Looks Fabulous ! ! !
That books looks amazing 🙂 excited for the giveaway
Looks like a great book!
I am also a sewing book collector. This looks like the next book I need to add to the collection. Let’s see, a joke:
What did the father buffalo say to his son when he left for school?
Bye son!
this book looks so awesome!! Thanks for the giveaway! I wish I had a good joke to share…
I just found your blog looking for sewing inspiration and it’s great! I love your style and your way of making sewing approachable.
Looks interesting!
It’s all fun and games until someone loses an eye!
Oh yes, please! I am in serious need of some sewing education materials. I really need to up my game.
What do you call a pile of cats? A “meow-tain” LOL – amirite?!
really enjoyed the sassy vogue pattern review, I always love your spirited blog posts, thank you (btw, hoping for a win on the book).
Hope no one said this one already but it is my current fave: The past, the present, and the future walked into a bar… It was tense.
Want to know how the handkerchief ghost won the hallow’een dance – off?
He put a little boogie in it.
Nb, I may be Canadian, but my mailing address is in GA.
Looks like a wonderful resource, I would love to win a copy!
yup, I’d like to call myself a fashion designer. Maybe with this book…..
Sorry, I don’t know any jokes, but I’d like to enter! Thanks!
I know the giveaway is over but I want to tell you my favorite joke.
There was a family of moles living in a tunnel underground. Of course moles can’t see very well so they have to get around by smell. One day the daddy mole stuck his head out of the hole and said, “the air smells like maple syrup today.” The mamma mole stuck her head up next to him and said, “I think it smells like honey.” The baby mole tried to stick his head up but his parents were blocking the hole, and he said, “I think it smells like molasses!”
Omg yesss I love this joke!!
Hey there! I’ve been reading your web site for a while now
and finally got the courage to go ahead and give you a shout out from Huffman Tx!
Just wanted to say keep up the good work!
♥ !!