Sew Fast Sew Easy: All You Need to Know When You Start to Sew Reviews

• Beginning sewers should start here!

  
  By A1DRYQ7RKDC3WP on 2003-08-25
  The only mistake that I made in purchasing this book was that I bought it after I had spent money on other, more complicated, books marketed towards the beginning sewer. If you have literally NO prior experience, cannot decipher a "selvage" from a "crosswise grain", buy this book. It is elementary in its explanation and directions, without being condescending. It is full of tips and suggestions that I found no where else, and as an added bonus-it includes 3 ready to use patterns! Trust me and buy this book FIRST! Sewing can be frustrating to the novice, and intimidating, with all of the jargon and precision that is involved. You will be very satisfied with your purchase!
  
  

• Great book for a beginner!

  
  By A1V8HI4GZPSAL9 on 2002-12-14
  My mom recently bought me a sewing machine as a gift, and I had no clue how to use it. I leafed through a lot of sewing books trying to decide which one to buy; most of them were much thicker than this one, and filled with advanced techniques that I wasn't ready for. This book actually takes you through the process of threading the machine, explains basics about fabric, tools, taking body measurements and gives you a list of essentials to buy for your sewing kit.

  The best part for me was that it's goal-oriented. SFSE comes with 3 patterns for a pillow cover, tote bag and skirt. Each project has step-by-step directions and great diagrams. The projects get more difficult as you go, so you learn more and more with each project.

  If you want a sewing book that will actually teach you how to sew (vs. a reference manual) this is the one. This would also make a great gift--the book design is really cute!
  
  

• Great, simple and easy to follow -thank you!

  
  By on 2002-10-26
  This book goes through everything. It's great to use. I've sewed before and teach sewing to students. I can't believe someone finally sat down and explained everything so clearly with words and pictures. It's great for beginers- it goes over everything- from holding scissors properly (yes there is a right way) to explaining fabric and grain and getting people to sew without fearing it.
  I would recommend this book for any beginer and any intermediate sewer out there- and the patterns in the back are terrific projects to get you going.
  
  

• Good for a beginner.

  
  By A3KVXT3TN8VIB8 on 2006-05-27
  This is a good book for a beginner if you have no previous sewing skills and would like to get a jump start on sewing.The best part is that it comes with 3 patterns and directions for sewing them.This is mostly what the book is about.There is a section at the front about tools and fabric and also the basic parts of the sewing machine,but most of the book is directions for using the patterns included.I guess that's what all beginners need to get right in there and start sewing something/anything to get your feet wet.I really liked this book and the patterns are cute, they include an envelope pillow cover,a tote bag and a skirt.Good book
  
  

• Easy way to start

  
  By A17D2E2UJJ9XH5 on 2002-11-04
  I've always been frustrated by learning how to sew, but I saw this book in the bookstore, and I had to pick it up. The cover is what caught my eye: A bright pink design, and inside it goes step by step in teaching you how to sew with fun illustrations. She's encouraging from the beginning, saying "if I gave you a pair of ballet shoes, could you go on the point right away?" She admits it will take practice and time, but it is very rewarding. I bought this book before I bought the sewing machine! The only complaint I have is that when I bought it in the bookstore, it was kind of over-priced ...,but it is still worth it!
  
  
• this book is definitly worth the price!!
  By A28EXMNRLRD1Q9 on 2003-04-09
  I bought this book on a recommendation from one of my co-workers. They were 100% correct when they said this book was well worth it. Not only does Elissa tell you the proper way to do things, but she does it with humor. She understands that the beginner seamstress is not going to know what she knows after many years in the industry.

  I also have had the opportunity to take several of her classes in NYC. If you get the chance, I highly recommend those too!

  Thanks Elissa for the great book! I love it!
  
  

• Not just for beginners
  By A3ANWBXNQ9TS36 on 2003-06-02
  I am a self-taught intermediate sewers who's been off and on for about six years. Because this is marketed for the beginner sewer, I hesitated on purchasing it. However, after having so many frustrating experiences attempting to make a professional looking purse, I decided to buy it. This baby helped me so much that now I'm thinking of starting a small business! This book teaches you all the things you can't necessarily teach yourself or figure out on your own. Everything is super easy to understand, and the result is ALWAYS crisp and neat looking.

  I highly recommend this book to any level sewer, from novice to intermediate.
  
  

• great for brand new sewers
  By A2WJV0FLH65V58 on 2006-12-13
  This book is designed for anyone who has NO experience in sewing. It has very basic information and 3 starter projects--a skirt in 2 lengths, a tote bag, and a pillow in 2 sizes with trim options.
  I purchased this book to help teach my 20 yo daughter how to follow patterns. She has taught herself and makes items, but doesn't know traditional sewing techniques or how to use patterns. There was useful information in this book, but once you have worked through the projects, it's usefulness is limited.
  This book does include the patterns, on traditional pattern tissue paper, right with it. This is extremely helpful to a beginner, who won't have to try to find patterns with features they won't even know. The instruction is useful, with minimal places of confusion. Better explanation of the type of materials that would work for each project might have been useful too.
  In other reviews there were comments about the accuracy of the instruction. One person commented about the stitch length. I own 5 sewing machines, and there seems to be two different numerical scales used on them for determining this. This book points out what seems to be used on more of the newer machines. There are a couple of other things like this in the book--it would have been nice to explain both ways. A beginner, I would assume, would might be confused by this.
  Otherwise, a great book with projects that aren't out dated. Just remember, this probably won't be useful as a reference book a year from now.
  All in all, I do think this is a great book for good beginner projects. If you have any useful sewing experience, you might think this book is too basic.
  
  
• Sew Nice!!
  By A2ICM31XIHMF09 on 2005-08-10
  This book is a good basic book for beginners. It gives you a list of materials you will be using for most any sewing project and gives you basic understanding of sewing terms. I really loved the three projects included with the book. The step by step directions were wonderful. The projects are designed to make you look like a creative person.
  
  
• Great book for a new sewer
  By A150LUJKYC0SU on 2005-10-16
  This book is super for people who are just beginning to sew. The projects are great and build sewing skills. A must-have if you are just learning.
  
  
• A Great Beginner's Guide
  By A36AMBJ0AAMFOS on 2006-08-05
  This book is a great way to learn about sewing! It has great info about different fabrics, how to properly fold and cut material, how to take measurements, how to read a pattern, how to make alterations... A great over-all guide! I bought it for a friend who is just a beginner, but even though I've been sewing for years I learned new things (or refreshed my memory) by browsing through it.
  
  
• You will sew both fast and easy. You'll be amazed.
  By AICHNFR7K2Z7I on 2004-05-25
  This book is absolutely wonderful. I never thought I'd learn to sew and was a bit worried when I got a machine and figured I'd try to learn with a book or on my own. With this book I have learned how to make the pillow, bag and skirt she shows in the book. I am addicted to making the skirt and now even have the confidence to try some other things and use other books. I wish I had found this book sooner and wish I could take one of her classes.

  If you are just learning to sew, but this book first. You will really surprise yourself.
  
  

• Great Book!
  By A1DL1LW08CZEY0 on 2004-02-15
  I bought this book because I read good reviews of it online. I bought a sewing machine after getting the book and used it to teach myself how to sew. I had no help at all except for the book. The projects were easy and very stylish. I've completed all the projects and just wish that I lived in NYC so that I could take lessons from the store. Check out their website. Buy this book and no other!!!
  
  
• Buy It
  By A2QOIH6M3HKKFP on 2004-05-23
  I did not know how to use a sewing machine at all. My husband bought me a machine and I turned to this book for help. Within 2 hours I sewed a pillow case. 2 hours after that I sewed a pair of curtains for my bathroom. This book was a tremendous help.
  
  
• Excellent Book for Sew-Phobics....
  By A77054A83YJFN on 2004-12-31
  Elissa's book is wonderful...I bought it here immediately after I borrowed it from the library as I had to own it and make the projects included in it. I had reviewed many beginning sewing books before finding this one, and it is really a unique guide that can help anyone learn how to sew, even absolute beginners and "phobics". It very simply and in plain language walks the reader through step by detailed step, how to thread a machine, lay out and cut pattern pieces and handle each of the progressive projects in the book.
  
  I like that the book has "attitude" and personality and is not like any of the other boring sewing books out there. Another strength is that the three patterns included in the book are for items that most people would be able to use and are nicely (and simply) designed - a pillow cover, tote bag and very simple short or long skirt. There are a minimal number of pattern pieces but the results really look professional when the projects are completed.
  
  Since completing the projects in this book, I've visited Elissa's web site and have ordered one of her additional patterns which I plan to start working on soon. She also has online classes which I plan to try as I do not live anywhere near her NYC studio where she teaches.
  
  Excellent book, overall - I highly recommend it!
  
  Robin
  
  
• This book is awesome!!
  By A3HHQ64I0PD0AG on 2005-01-19
  I got a new sewing machine for Christmas and was very frustrated once I actually tried to follow a pattern. I got the book "Sewing 101" but it was still not clear. This book was great. I made the first two projects and was on my way. I have since made three handbags. If you are just learning to sew, this is the book for you!!
  
  
• great for first pattern/sewers
  By A2R8BYQW041PZZ on 2007-01-19
  very easy, simple instructions. i've been sewing with a machine for years, but never used a pattern. this book explains in depth the steps to completing your project from beginning to end using the paterns included in the book. everything came out very excellent, very pleased. NOTE: For first time pattern users/sewers ONLY... if your more experienced you might find this to be a little basic. but the sewing patterns alone are worth the price of the book, and like i said, they come out great.
  
  
• Fun & Fabulous Beginner's Sewing Book
  By A26EQ8U96JA92T on 2006-05-05
  This book by Elissa Meyrich is great if you are BRAND NEW to using a sewing machine. I easily learned, from using this book, the mechanics of a sewing machine and how to make simple things like a pillow, tote bag, and skirt. The book is written in a style that makes the sewing fun and enjoyable. I think its wonderful for all ages.
  
  The book covers step by step and lists all the tools you will need. For the 3 projects, the patterns are included in the book.
  
  
• Face to Face
  By A3FJBGYQQBE1MZ on 2003-10-25
  I have taken classes with Elissa. I was so inspired byher I purchased her book. It guided me the way to really comprehend the materials. Plus, its a great reference book to have when you leave the machine for a few weeks.
  
  
• Sew Fast Sew Easy - Great For Beginners & Oldtimers, Too
  By A1X8I01ZVJIPHG on 2006-02-11
  The pictures and instructions are clear and easy to follow. The text is well-written and does not talk down to beginners. In fact, I bought the book for my young teenage grandaughters who also think it is great! And, now that I have time to get back to sewing, I am finding the book a great refresher. Thank you Ms. Meyrich for giving us a great sewing aid and wonderful projects that the girls and I can have fun doing together.
  
  
• Bought it as a gift for someone but it made me come back to sewing
  By AOGMAK4GCBRMJ on 2006-06-02
  I bought this book as a gift for my cousin. She is younger than me and wanted to learn to sew. I got this book on recommendation from a couple of my girlfriends. I began to look through it before wrapping it. This book made things very easy. I have fell back in love with sewing again.
  
  Now I have one also.
  
  
• AWESOME!!!!!!
  By A2YIB4VX5JOQSD on 2006-02-10
  I brought this book because I wanted to make my own bags. I am making great bags now and even started selling some of them because of this book. I recently attended an event here in louisiana promoting the other book, RIP IT. I stopped by just to meet the company representative and thank them for the great books. I wish I could take their classes in new york city.
  
  
• My new found sewing bible
  By AG41WVLU6LP3N on 2007-08-17
  I just bought this book because I wanted to freshen up my sewing. I knew how to home sew from my mother but I didn't know much about sewing techniques or terms or sewing notions and how to use them. This book was very easy to understand and explains everything I need to know about sewing and using notions and patterns. It's now my sewing bible! If I get stuck on something I grab my sew fast sew easy book.
  
  
• Recommended from a Professor!
  By AV67LOI6BWJG3 on 2006-03-07
  I just purchased this book and as usual Elissa Meyrich is an expert in her field. Not only is this book full of great sewing projects, but it is also full of great tips and techniques for sewing that are so useful since I am a professional fashion stylist. I'd recommend this book highly to any one who wants to have fun with sewing.
  
  
• Sew inspired
  By A255Q8PW00CY5G on 2007-08-18
  I bought this book for my daughter and she has taken to sewing extremely fast. She's so proud of what she makes. Her enthusiasm for sewing now is almost too much for me to keep up with. This book was was easy for her to understand and the illustrations were very clear. She's been playing around with reconstructing her clothes so I'm thinking of getting her the Rip It book as well. I'm happy to see her involved in a positive hobby that she truly enjoys and gets satisfaction from.
  
  
• Great book!
  By A2O4Z9IC591D8T on 2005-02-23
  I bought this book based on other Amazon recommendations and wasn't disappointed.
  
  I already knew the basics of using a sewing machine but couldn't get beyond using it for mending and hemming. I've even taken classes at a great fabric store, but still hadn't managed to learn enough to feel confident.
  
  This book taught me how to work with patterns and make new items -- the envelope pillow cover is great, I've now made several as gifts, and the skirt was one I'd actually wear!
  
  Now I've sewn two Vogue patterns, one hat and one purse, that get compliments all the time. I feel like I'm on my way to becoming a real sewing enthusiast! A great book for all newcomers to sewing machines and sewing from patterns. Enjoy it!
  
  
• Very easy to understand for a beginner sewer with great projects
  By AQUZ6YEK5GUMB on 2007-01-03
  I have been very pleased with this book. It would not be for someone who is experienced, however, for a beginner, it's perfect. It explains all the things I've heard my mother say for years... Selvage, on the fold, etc. I can't wait to do the projects included!! It was easy to figure out which materialswere needed when I went to our local sewing store.
  
  
• Best Beginner Sewing book around - 2 Recommendations in 1
  By A1ZYS64Y29EK72 on 2005-05-17
  I wanted to share with everyone this wonderful book that my friend Sara told me about. I purchased the book and learned to sewing using the author's soothing and detailed instruction. I would recommend this book to anyone who has ever had an interest in sewing or anyone who sews and feels like they are missing some things. It comes with three patterns and instruction for assembly that gets more complex. Totally cool!
  
  Here is my bestfriend, Sara's, commments.
  
  This weekend I started working on a holiday card holder that I designed myself, using mostly scrap fabric in a patchwork pattern. It's like a long narrow patchwork quilt, with ribbon for hooking the cards around and a couple of pockets for stuffing cards in.
  
  I used fusible interfacing, which I learned from the totebag project, so that the flimsier rayon fabrics would work well with the heavier cotton fabrics -- it worked like a charm.
  
  I'm still fussing with finishing the sewing; the backing fabric is velvet -- it's hard to sew properly, it keeps gripping and shifting! But I'm also using the patience I cultivated with your book, along with judiciously wielding my seam ripper. I'll send a photo when it's done -- it's very "martha," but I think you may like it anyhow. And I definitely got the confidence and the techniques from my Sew Fast Sew
  Easy projects.
  
  
  Enjoy reading and sewing!
  
  
• GREAT BOOK!
  By A1YWO84JTGDETB on 2006-11-09
  If you are looking for a good beginner's book or just one to brush up on your knowledge and terms, this is a great book. And it comes with 3 patterns.
  
  
• This should be on the MUST HAVE book list
  By ALBRRYMSGZYJS on 2005-06-18
  I totally hope that the author writes another book. Most books leave you lost and feel like you got part of the directions. This book is right to the source of the information. My skirt and tote bag look so cute that I also purchased the makeup bag pattern through their video learning and used the matching fabric of my tote.
  
  I walk around Chicago with my matching items and people always ask where I got them. This book is a MUST HAVE for the beginner sewer or any sewer that feels like the projects are not coming out right. Thank you to the author for this great book. Any new ones?
  
  

• Sew On: All You Need to Know to Start Sewing and Serging Today! (Sew Fast Sew Easy)

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• Sewing 101: A Beginner's Guide to Sewing
• The Complete Book of Sewing New Edition