Love to Sew: Lagom-Style Accessories

Lagom is a Swedish word that means “just right”. It is all about achieving a good balance in life and part of this is being self-sufficient. Making useful, practical items with what you already have that make life easier is a good place to start.

Anybody who sews will already have a stash of fabric they can use and a spot of decluttering is very much in the spirit of lagom. Add in the basics of sewing and you probably already have most of what you need to start right away. I like the way the author tells you not only what to buy but why you need it. There are lots of tips on how to get the best out of tools and supplies and all told in a chatty style as though she was talking to you, a nice touch. Although this book is not aimed at the total beginner it is suitable for somebody with some basic experience under their belt who wants to progress to the next stage. To that end there are clear diagrams of simple stitches and sections on topics like appliqué, making your own bias binding, putting on a pocket and basic freestyle quilting. Armed with this knowledge the projects themselves dispense with staged photographs and merely have a list of written steps, plus lists of materials and tools and several useful tips. Turn to the back and there is a pocket containing the full-sized patterns plus a glossary of all the Swedish terms used. The projects include practical items like a tea cozy, fabric basket, placemats, coasters, mug hug and pin cushion as well as wall hangings, decorations and bunting. Traditional Scandinavian motifs such as elk, Dala horse, tomte, birds etc are featured and there is an emphasis on homespun charm. Fans of all things Nordic will enjoy making these appealing items and filling their home with the essence of lagom.

-- Rachel A Hyde * myshelf.com *

20 Scandinavian-inspired projects to sew. Lagom is a Swedish philosophy for balance. Nicely designed projects, but I did think some of them looked for Swedish than others. There are projects to fall in love with here. Use stash and scraps to make simple designs that can transform your home or make perfect gifts. Step by step instructions are accompanied by excellent photos. Full-size templates are included too. You'll find a basic techniques section. Favourite projects for me are the apron, plant pot cover, tote bag, apple kitchen set and the fabulous fabric basket.

-- Karen Platt * www.karenplatt.co.