About the Author:
Debbie Shore started her career as a children's television presenter and since then has appeared regularly on television both as an actress and selling products on a shopping channel. Debbie has also hosted live fashion shows with a major fashion store, produces her own range of instructional DVDs and writes for several popular sewing magazines. She is now a bestselling author and has written 12 books for Search Press, with several more underway. Debbie was voted Sewing Designer of the Year in the Immediate Media British Craft Awards 2017.
Review:
Make twelve bags and twelve matching purses using only half yards of fabric. All you need is this amount for the outside of the item plus lining, decorations, notions and hardware. You don't even need a lot of sewing experience with the easy to read instructions with plenty of staged photographs, although a good knowledge of the basics is a must. There is a page of tips for the "complete beginner" but personally I would rate this for improver level as there is a fair amount to master. One of the features is that most of the projects feature bag hardware in the shape of buckles, frames, chains, D-rings and carabiners. This gives the bags a professional finish and instructions are given on how to attach them. At the front there is a list of what you need to embark on making bags plus several pages of basic techniques including stitches, making straps and your own bias binding, adding pockets and putting in zips. There are no patterns in this book apart from a page of templates; each project has a cutting list of the simple shapes you require, plus a list of everything you need and a finished size. You can expect plenty of Search Press' trademark photographic stages for a pretty foolproof project, and a good range of different bag and purse styles. Choose from casual tote bags, shoulder bags, formal handbags and bags to take to work as well as various purses and wallets to match. My favorite feature of the book is the emphasis on using up what you have; it really shows how to do a lot with a little. From an ingenious use of an old cork to a brilliant way of using up lots of spare threads there is a way of using the smallest scraps. I love the Charles Rennie Mackintosh style rose made from "iris folding" strips of fabric - very pretty and effective. I was also impressed with the range of fabrics used, not only quilting cottons but leather, felt, tweed and all-over lace. This is the sort of book that you can dip into again and again for bags every time you have a new outfit. My current favorite from this excellent series. -- Rachel A Hyde * myshelf.com * This is TV presenter Debbie's latest book in the excellent `Half-Yard' series and is packed with gorgeous must-have bags and purses that will be used again and again. Be it a casual tote for travel, a practical carrier for the working day or a smart and stylish bag for that special occasion, Debbie has it covered, and as always, her instructions are clear and detailed. With the addition of QR codes for bonus technique videos, the designs are suitable for all abilities. Those with more sewing experience can, however, personalize their bags with additional pockets, zips and applique. A fabulous book - the most difficult thing is deciding which bag to make first! -- Embroiderers Guild * Embroiderers Guild * I LOVE THIS BOOK!!! I want to make everything that is in it and I want to make them all again for everyone I know. A bag for every occasion complete with matching purse are beautifully showcased with stunning glossy photographs, I am in love with them all. Debbie Shore has outdone herself with this fabulous book, and if you love sewing then you will not be disappointed. Full instructions and a few full sized templates are given. The project order is easy to follow and what I love with Shore's books, is that even beginners can accomplish a usable and beautiful item. What you need, sizes and 'how to' is in simple language and include some helpful hints and tips for that professional look and finish. With no more than half a yard of fabric, totes, clutches, and more can be made from cotton, felt and faux leather. I adored the Twisted Thread Bag, and even though it looks quite difficult, the ease of the demonstration means that I will have no bother achieving a fabulous result with a stunning effect. In this book, there is a QR Code. this can be scanned with your phone and takes you to videos, tutorials and helpful advice. This is a genius idea and is why I love Ms Shore, she thinks about everything and everyone. Highly recommended and quite superb. -- Postcard Reviews * Tracy Shephard *
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