The Pattern-Free Wardrobe
10 Simple Dressmaking Projects
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Search Press Ltd
Publishing:16th Jun '26
£14.99
This title is due to be published on 16th June, and will be despatched as soon as possible.
Create and customize your own stylish capsule wardrobe... without using dressmaking patterns!
Use simple, beginner-friendly techniques to sew 10 stylish, versatile and contemporary garments with Kimberley Hind (@whatkimberleymakes).
Are dressmaking patterns essential for creating stylish and flattering clothes? No!
Can you create a range of impressive garments using just your own measurements and some simple techniques? Yes!
Popular designer and dressmaker Kimberley Hind takes you through everything you need to know to get started. Whether that's choosing the right fabrics for the look and finish you want, to accurately taking your body measurements so that your clothes fit in just the right way, Kimberley's friendly and no-nonsense attitude will get you started in no time... and with no need for dressmaking patterns!
- Everything is shown visually: from seaming, hemming, shirring, adding ruffles and finishing your garments.
- All 10 beginner-friendly projects are visually explained step by step: choose from skirts, trousers, tops, dresses, shorts and a jacket.
- The projects are looser fitting to suit any body shape, and can be customized for your preferred style: adapt the sleeves, straps, cuffs and hem length as you want.
- The projects aim for minimal waste, with advice and tips on using leftover fabric scraps to make accessories. <
The "pattern-free" of the title is somewhat of a misnomer because when sewing clothes, even templates (or following already constructed items) are mandatory, unless a very experienced seamster is the maker. Author Hind does not include a handful of patterns in the appendix and, usually, features more basic shapes in the ten projects included here. Her emphasis, first, is on acquiring and mastering skills in sewing machine stitchery, with good information and tips throughout on tools and materials and step-by-step instructions on details like ruffles, turning ties, bias binding, and others.
The rest of the book is devoted to the ten designs as well as alternate forms (e.g., a boho blouse becomes a maxi dress; a jacket transforms into a tie-front blouse). Few traditional embellishments are incorporated, like buttons and buttonholes. Finally, most items are relatively untailored, with elastic waists, tent-like dresses, and strapped tops. A dress-making glossary is included. This is a good selection for beginners.
-- Barbara Jacobs * BookliISBN: 9781800922396
Dimensions: 260mm x 204mm x 9mm
Weight: 540g
144 pages