What are the 3 MUST-HAVE SEWING BOOKS that will actually help on your sewing journey? Plus my favs!

Let's talk about some of the best sewing books you can have in your collection, for all those times you need a sewing lesson offline!
You can find some of these books (that are still in print) in my Amazon store. These are affiliate links and I earn a small commission on them. Thank you for using these links as every bit goes towards helping support me and this channel.
My Amazon store
www.amazon.com/shop/evelynwoodtv
0:00 Intro
2:48 The All-rounder
3:05 Readers Digest Complete Book of Sewing
5:03 The Vogue Sewing Book
6:25 The Pictorial Guide to Modern Home Dressmaking
7:51 Fit
8:23 Fast Fit
9:23 Figure Analysis
10:20 McCall’s How to Fit Book
11:30 Specialty
11:50 Thrift with A Needle: The Complete Book of Mending
12:53 Couture Sewing Techniques
14:21 Dresscutting and Drafting
15:39 Final thoughts!
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// WHAT TO WATCH NEXT:
How to DESIGN AND PLAN YOUR BEST SEWING SPACE, using the space you have!-Get 'Sew Organized' Phase 1
• How to DESIGN AND PLAN...
The best way to SORT AND ORGANIZE YOUR SEWING supplies! Get Sew Organized Phase 2!
• The best way to SORT A...
How to STORE AND DECORATE YOUR SEWING supplies for your ultimate sewing space! Sew Organized Phase 3
• How to STORE AND DECOR...
3 MUST-HAVE INGREDIENTS TO ANY SUCCESSFUL SEWING JOURNEY, and your own success learning to sew!
• 3 MUST-HAVE INGREDIENT...
4 Sewing things NOT to copy from experienced sewist!
• 4 Sewing things NOT to...
A pattern is just a tool of sewing (not sewing in its entirety)... Are you using it like a tool?
• A PATTERN IS JUST A TO...
5 sewing 'hacks' that will ACTUALLY make your sewing life better!
• 5 sewing 'hacks' that ...
SUCCESSFUL SEWING PROJECTS START WITH A PLAN! ✂ Take a peek at my method of planning a refashion!
• SUCCESSFUL SEWING PROJ...
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Until next time
Evelyn
…
#sewing #learntosew #evelynwood

[@Evelyn__Wood]

What's been the best sewing book for you? ✂️ Improve your sewing with me at Vintage Sewing School www.vintagesewingschool.com/

[@playme129]

This video and your comments have been very helpful. Thank you for posting.

[@tamarafkinglee6572]

Once I have $ I can’t wait to join!

[@rhiannonmann1341]

Really loving the new book "Ahead of the curve" for a body positive approach to fitting for curvy, plus size people like me!

[@NewEarthBlog]

My all-time favorites that I bought new when they came out are "The Vogue Sewing Book" (1970) and "The Vogue Sewing Book of Fitting, Adjustments, and Alterations" (1972).

[@markdandeneau2904]

More Fabric Savvy by Sandra Betzina. This book covers nearly 200 fabrics. Fabric Fact, Suitable For, Sewing Tips, Preshrinking, Layout, Marking, Cutting, Interfacing, Thread, Needle, Stitch Length, Presser Foot, Seam Finish, Pressing, Topstitching, Closures, Hem as well as a picture are included in a two page spread for each material. I was surprised to see that felt could be laundered though it has a lot of shrinkage.

[@sewmuchsewing]

My father bought me the Readers Digest sewing book when I first started sewing at age 12. 43 years on I still have it. Not only is it a super useful reference book ( I'll still occasionally flick through it) it is a lovely link to my decased father. Books are awesome in so many ways.

[@602redroses]

My father did too :)

[@tinamcnalley2575]

What cool fathers you guys have!

[@l.baughman1445]

That is such a wonderful memory and association. ❤

[@raquelmartinez2697]

I have seen mano recomendations about this one, and it is kn amazon, but I wonder if with it, you will be able to do your own patterns. Because that's what I want, I have some simplicity and mc calls patterns, but I actually want to learn to measure and draw my patterns, to fit better. Is that on the book?

[@sewmuchsewing]

@@raquelmartinez2697 I think it is fair to say that this book helps you make alterations and adapt patterns for fitting but if you are wanting a book to help you draft patterns from scratch then this may not be the best option. I am sure there are many books out there dedicated to pattern drafting.

[@lunzie01]

I LOVE this book: The Art of Manipulating Fabric, by Colette Wolff. In it she shows how to work with fabric in every way, such as: crushing, pleating, ruffles, smocking, tucking, darts, etc. etc.

[@habituscraeftig]

I strongly second this recommendation. I am blown away by the amount of care and sampling that went into this book. Treating these methods independently of their original contexts has the added benefit of making everything more accessible and comprehensible (because the techniques are shown as related to one another). It also opens up connections and possibilities that might not be as apparent in a more projects-oriented book. The applications of fabric manipulation are by no means limited to how they *have* been used, and it's a wonderful thing to see them with fresh eyes and contemplate new possibilities.

[@aella3662]

I second this as well! The lessons are easy to follow and make such a great touch to garments.

[@opheliahamlet3508]

I second, third and fourth this just for the sheer pleasure of looking at the artistry and workmanship of the contents. But aside from eye candy, the instruction is comprehensive and accessible

[@victoriabrockman5473]

Woman's Institue of Domestic Arts and Sciences series by Mary Brooks Picken. Basically, a 1920/30s college course in everything from darning, to stain removal, fabric care, pattern making, and everything in between. I believe its 7 or 8 books in all.

[@laurab1676]

I found a collection on eBay and on Facebook rummage, I want to buy it now. They are are kind of spendy. Do you use yours often?

[@victoriabrockman5473]

@@laurab1676 As a reference, it is the most comprehensive sewing dictionary/encyclopedia reference you'll find. Some of the stuff is outdated, like how to dye different fabrics with some pretty potent chemicals and some fabrics that just don't exist in today's world; but stitches, darning, stain removal, fabric care, home dry-cleaning, stain removal, fabric selection, fabric prep, pattern design, seam finishes, tailoring, dressmaking, lingerie etc... it doesn't get much more in depth or comprehensive. It is literally a 1930s homemaker's college corse in making fashionable clothes for your family, written by the most influential dressmaker of the day. She wrote text books for Singer as well. The stuff that is no longer applicable, is still very interesting if you like history. As a reference library, it is "Everything you wanted to know, and everything you didn't know to ask."

[@lisalamphier1410]

My grandmother gave me her set of these books.

[@tinamcnalley2575]

I bought my RD Complete Guide to Sewing new, over 40 years ago, for a class at Uni.I'd already been making most of my clothing for 7 years. In those pre-internet days, that book was a godsend. I still pull it out occasionally if I've not done a technique for a while. Over the years, I've bought everyone that mentioned to me they wanted to learn to sew a copy, so I've seen many editions. I now only pick up my old version off Ebay as some basic techniques are missing from the newer versions. Claire Schaeffer's books are also wonderful for improving specific techniques - they're all good. But I also wouldn't be without David Paige Coffins, "Shirtmaking" and "Trousers". Both are geared more towards menswear, but the breakdown of techniques and dissections of high quality garments is priceless - especially since womenswear quite often settles for "good enough" compared to the construction of menswear.

[@Evelyn__Wood]

Great recommendations thankyou 😀

[@mothersuperior6751]

This book is amazing. I have bought multiple copies. Picking them up at garage sales or a school gala, 2nd hand book sales etc. Then giving them away to young sewists. I have the. Knitting one and the embroidery one too.

[@kristinel1117]

Hi.. which older version is the best? The original 1976? There are many for sale on Ebay, like the 1986 and the 1997. Thanks.

[@tinamcnalley2575]

@@kristinel1117 Mine might be the 76. I bought it around 79 or 80. I recognize it by the orange handled fiskar scissors on the front.

[@kristinel1117]

@@tinamcnalley2575 Thank you!

[@alisoneichler4257]

I’ve been sewing for 50+ years but haven’t used tailor’s tacks in a while. I pulled out my oldest copy of Vogue Sewing and refreshed my skills! Perfect. I have 3 copies (different publication dates) of Vogue Sewing. NEVER discard a sewing book!

[@Evelyn__Wood]

I agree! The skills are all the same, intact better skills the older it is, and I like to collect different print versions too!

[@johanna5688]

When you learn to draft your own patterns, you no longer need these sewing books. By then you have already learnt which threads match which fabrics, which needles for which fabrics, you know the tools, etc. You no longer need to look up how to sew pockets, facings, whatever, bcz you are the one who knows how you designed the outfit. Those sewing books are designed for those learning to use bought paper patterns. I gave up on them bcz they are a headache when it comes to adjusting to fit your body. Also I often found the instructions to be clear as mud, not written in plain English. There would always be a step somewhere that I was left scratching my head. Learning patterndrafting was the best thing I ever did. I've never bought a paper pattern again. I actually find it so much easier to draft my own patterns than to follow other ppl's instructions, and as I said, the fitting part was a pain to adjust.

[@mahel2002]

@@johanna5688 Hi! May i ask, how did you learn and what resources did you use? Did you go to a sewing school or did you use books and video tutorials? I am asking because I have bought some patterns but my body does not fit them, and adjusting them is a total pain for me (so your saying that it was a headache for you rang many bells), but I have no idea where to start with so much information on the internet. I would much rather have the opinion of someone with experience on where to start, instead of trying and trying myself in the limited free time that I have for sewing. Thank you ever so much!

[@Nevorek2016]

It’s a bit of a niche book, but my absolute bible right now for fitting is Sewing for Plus Sizes by Barbara Deckert. I’ve found some of the books on fitting can be quite patronising or don’t really address common fit problems that plus sized people have. This book doesn’t beat around the bush, it’s just like “so you’ve got an overhanging belly, here’s how to choose fabrics, styles and adjust patterns to create flattering clothes that actually fit you properly.” Plus she’s named one of the body shapes “Madam Peanut” which is hilarious.

[@raraavis7782]

I would encourage everyone, to not wait with purchassing a book about patternmaking until they're really advanced sewists. I understand the reasoning (been there, done that) but it's a totally different skill from general sewing and actually not all that hard. And how often is one contemplating a pattern, that's almost but not quite, what one is looking for? Or one end up spending quite a bit on different patterns, just because there are slight differences in the style? Or buys them with the vague notion of using them and then never does? Maybe not so much a problem for Americans, but where I live, patterns do not go on sale and there are no 'coupons' or stuff. You pay your 10€ or whatever every single time. Being able, to at least make simple adjustments to existing (and already fit adjusted!) patterns makes the whole process so much easier. Not to mention, that it's darn handy to be able, to just draw a collar or something for a thrifted item, one wants to fix.

[@patriciagodfrey6345]

I have had that Reader's Digest book since it was new. It sits next to my machine, ready for action at any moment, and is still put to use almost weekly. If you know "how to" sew you don't need a book of projects; you'll look around you, or at fabric that catches your eye, and the projects will come spilling into your head - this book makes it possible.

[@donnahaynes8766]

I had the Reader's Digest Complete Guide to Sewing. It really is a Complete guide, not only dress making but also sewing for the home which can really save tons of money.

[@GarmentofPraiseSewing]

I love how you emphasize “skill”. Sewing is a skill and once you master the skills you have a better understanding of tackling projects. My favorite book is the Readers Digest Complete Guide to Sewing. You always have good content. I enjoy your channel.

[@brendabijak7171]

I think the older books are the best!

[@dianablyton2998]

‘Skills not projects’ - you’re speaking my language. I collect old sewing embroidery and sewing books for this reason!

[@susanmorris5940]

Thank you! I bought the 1975 Vogue Sewing Book on Facebook Marketplace and I love it. I retired last year and finally have time to learn more about sewing. Your videos are so inspiring.

[@lisab7948]

My mother had her grandmother's copy of the Singer Sewing guide. I remember finding it when I got into sewing in college, looking through the information and threatening to steal it.

[@kimberlyallen6582]

My parents bought me my first sewing machine and the Reader's Digest Complete Guide to Sewing when I graduated from high school in 1983. I love it.

[@Evelyn__Wood]

What a nice gift!

[@Mamallina437]

Same for me but 1977! Still use both the machine and book!

[@kathrynd1936]

I love Claire Schaeffer’s series of couture sewing guides. She has one book that is a very detailed guides to all the techniques but has also written books where she dissects all the steps that go into creating a Chanel jacket or skirt. Fascinating.

[@Evelyn__Wood]

Yes I have seen many others, and I bet they are all as good as this one!

[@johanna5688]

I can't stand the sight of those dreaded Chanel jackets & skirts getup. Politicians in the USA & Britain have been wearing them, as if compulsory, since they first came out. To me they are just too tired looking. They have just been around too long. Think of Jackie Kennedy, Margaret Thatcher et al. I don't like above the knee length, skinny skirts and fitted jackets. I like clothes that MOVE with the body. The more fabric the better. Not just for comfort, but this is how you show the garment's style & fabric off. It's so elegant. Not baggy, so you hide in it, no, but I do like room to swing my arms around, and when I bend or squat down, I'm not so casually showing my private parts like women so casually do so today.

[@orange_d3119]

​@@johanna5688👏

[@VoodooAngel63]

I have the "Fast Fit" book as well and I think it has to be the best book on fit that I have ever seen. I'm a very hard to fit person and this book will show in very clear line drawings what the garment will look like with a specific fit problem. For instance, when the back crotch is too short in a pair of pants it shows a perfect drawing of how that garment looks on a figure, how it pulls, where lines and wrinkles appear. You could just leaf through the book, if you didn't know what the exact problem with the fit was until you got to the picture that matched how your garment looked. It's priceless.

[@Evelyn__Wood]

Yes that's a great way to put it! That you can window shop for the fit issue your having when you don't have a name for it!

[@sunalouw348]

Love your new backdrop!

[@l.baughman1445]

I agree! Sandra Betzina is an excellent teacher and her books are written clearly and it's easy to find what you need. She creates practical resources for all levels.

[@treifrogy]

I found the first edition of the Vogue Sewing Book at a thrift store for $1. Such a gem of a book and has taught me so much! Great recommendations

[@ShadowRaven66669]

Thrift stores are my favorite places for picking up useful skill-learning books! Knitting, sewing, cooking, etc. You can find some real gems for dirt cheap.

[@johanna5688]

I once had a copy of an 80s Vogue book. I wound up not liking it much, then gave it away. I never liked their styles. When I was first learning to sew, I much preferred McCalls & Burda to all the others. That was a LONG time ago. About 40 years ago. Once I was familiar with the putting together & sewing part, I then did a patterndrafting course. I never bought a paper pattern since. I'm 60 now & still make my own outfits, and hope to continue to do so. I love it. My clothes are always original, in the colours, styles & fabrics of my choice. People always compliment me and ask where I bought it from.

[@jeanneolson2703]

I agree that the Vogue book is amazing! I have two, both. Early edition’s. They are invaluable. 1975 is my favorite.

[@pierregirard1970]

Reader's Digest book was my sewing teacher! And a very good one!😊 Mine is from the 70's.

[@sarahlarson8335]

I must have hit a jackpot. I picked up a 1978 edition of the Reader's Digest Complete Guide to Sewing at my local thrift store recently. I was also gifted the book, Sew Step by Step by Alison Smith, which is a nice basics book and has great full color photos.

[@wifeoftim]

Simplicity Simply the Best Sewing Book. A fellow home schooler recommended it many years ago and I just love it. Its been updated but I don't need a newer copy.

[@lesliemarquard4645]

I love that one too...I have and love the Reader's Digest and the Vogue book as well as many others, but for the basics, the Simplicty Simply the Best Sewing Book really is Simply the Best! I have to say I was surprised when I picked it up that it was that good...

[@Loves_3_Kitties]

I recommend “Make Do and Mend - Keeping Family and Home Afloat on War Rations”. It is a book of “Reproductions of Official Second World War Instruction Leaflets”. It has a ton of information about clever ways to reuse, repair and reinforce clothing and household fabrics (including great step-by-step pictures for repairing tears in sheets - cat claw damage😻).

[@Grandma_Ma]

How marvelous

[@Grandma_Ma]

How marvelous to own such a old copy

[@Morticia147]

A book I really love came out just a few weeks ago. It's "Ahead of the curve" from Jenny Rushmore. It's everything a plus size women needs to get fitting garments - to me thats the best book I have in my collection.

[@MSYNGWIE12]

Hi, are you watching The Marvelous Mrs Maisel? I love your outfit, very flattering and with your "bob" haircut gives you a French vintage vibe. I am NOT a fan of the 1950's BUT I used to sew and still rue the loss of tailoring- tees and jeans are so easy, yes, but boring- IMHO. Watching Mrs. Maisel I long to blow the cobwebs off my out of date machine- my machine isn't computerized- doesn't do knits either, no stretch fabrics. I watch several channels wherein very dedicated vintage clothing lovers, sew by hand though, so maybe it is partly laziness ! I I own The Reader's Digest Book of Sewing but not the others. You are correct about the older books, fitting, refashioning, mending- I'd love that one because I will buy a 5.00 dress ( was over 100.00CDN) but HUGE- I had to have it! Still hangs in my closet, I have no idea how to "take it in". It will probably go to the charity shop! Watching Mrs. Maisel, I long to replicate the elegance of garments with darts, plackets, made for the dress belts! I don't have her "perfect" shape, can't do Susie's motto, for example! I refu

[@sharonrimsza7960]

Sandra Betzina is awesome! I also have a complete collection of Claire Shaeffer books and patterns and Susie Furrer books and Craftsy classes for pattern drafting. We won’t talk about the 100+ books I hoard. Everything sewing, quilting, upholstery…well you get the idea. I 100% agree on sewing books showing techniques instead of project after project. Basically all books on fabric manipulation should show technique to help you understand and build your skills. Trust me we all have disasters. Then you learn what type of resource is best for you. Thank you Evelyn.

[@vickichisholm931]

I bought both these books 30 years ago; Mother Pletsch's Painless Sewing and The Vogue/Butterick Step by Step Guide to Sewing and refer to both of them from time to time. I have only just returned to sewing my own clothes again after a break; believe it or not Covid brought me back to sewing as I decided to make my own masks! And then my beloved hobby has just gone on and on again! Love it! My mother and grandmother were both excellent dressmakers. I actually used to make dolls clothes on my grandmother's singer treadle machine (wish I still had it).

[@johanna5688]

Problem is those treadle sewing machines only did straight stitch. No zig zag or other stitching patterns like the overcasting stitches for finishing the garments. I think in those days, maybe they left a lot of seams unfinished. Or maybe they turned the seam edges down, then top stitched them. I'm not sure. Would you know?

[@hallscroft]

My 1965 Simplicity Sewing Book is one of my 'must-haves'

[@davederrick9431]

My 1977 Readers Digest Complete Guide to Sewing has been my go to steadfast for the past 43yrs & David Coffin's 'Shirt Making: Develop skills for fine sewing' The Taunton Press, USA (1993) is a favourite.

[@jvin248]

I can imagine that the older books are actually more helpful than newer ones because more people made their own clothes. I saw where Singer was teaching over four million people in the US every year how to sew back in the 1950s. And the old books would have shown techniques using older sewing machines too and be more accessible that way, when most had only a straight stitch machine.

[@carolmichell4860]

I’d definitely agree with the first edition Reader’s Digest book. It’s an excellent reference, although the indexing could be better. As others have commented, the illustrations reflect the era in which it was published, so they do look quaint, but they are still relevant. It also, not surprisingly has little on sewing with stretch knits and refers to concealed zips as being a new invention! I also find Claire Schaeffer’s books on couture sewing fascinating for their emphasis on construction.

[@fortysomethingbadgirls2173]

I have that Reader's Digest book! Church bin for free! Got several from there. Love them.

[@erinvanhandel]

I have a copy of the Readers Digest sewing book from the late 1970s, and it's also my all-time favorite reference book. Well written, clear illustrations - I come back to it time and again. One of my other most-loved books is "Pattern Fitting with Confidence" by Nancy Zieman. She has a slightly different take on adjusting pattern pieces; she uses the pivot-and-slide method to keep seams the same length. It's clever yet common sense. I fell in love with it immediately. P.S. Most of my sewing books are from thrift stores, too!

[@maryriley6163]

Whoopi! I have my late mother’s copy of “Complete Guide to Sewing”.

[@paulcarlachapman628]

My Vogue Sewing Book is from 1970. I love that book! It's clearly written with great illustrations.

[@amierichan1428]

Many years ago, I had a boyfriend who had a button-up Oxford shirt that was literally falling apart, the fabric was just shredding, but I couldn't get him to pitch it. So I decided to make a replacement. Although I'd been sewing my own clothing since I was 9, I had never tackled anything like this. I got David Coffin's "Shirtmaking", and although it is very specialised, it is a brilliant book for all sorts of details to make all sewing come out better. There were things like to run a basting stitch in the seam allowance on the bottom, curved edge of patch pockets. Then just pull ever so slightly and press and then sewing them on. The curve at the bottom will be smoother than you can imagine. The biggest compliments were that he couldn't tell I'd made them myself (I ended up doing 2, in case one didn't work out), and the other was that the American Sewing Guild asked me to write an article about the experience!:-) Highly recommend that for the more experienced sewer who would like to improve his or her game.

[@denisehill7769]

I have two sewing books, Hamlyn's Practical Needlework (1980) which has rather dated illustrations and styles but excellent instructions on various techniques; seams, finishes, fabrics, limited alterations, plus furnishings and embroidery stitches. It worked for me when I was still quite new to sewing and I still refer to it now. The other book is one I bought only a few weeks ago and has been a game-changer - Sewing Machine Magic by Steffani Lincecum. Because if you don't know certain feet exist, how do you find them! It has made a huuuuge difference and has made me look at my sewing machine in a whole new light. The nice thing about it is it has projects for each foot, while you might not want to make them all, it does make you realise how much easier it can be, moving away from the Universal Foot For All Occasions.

[@Evelyn__Wood]

What a great idea for a book! I know, even if you only have a few extra feet that you use, it makes all the difference in your sewing

[@johanna5688]

These presser feet and their uses always were, even in the old Reader's Digest books since back in the day..... Also I knew of all the presser feet, as in my 20s I used to sew in factories on industrial machines. The industrial sewing machines are better quality stitching and has superior grip on fabrics too. Their presser feet are much better quality too. Domestic machines and their presser feet are far more fragile & not durable. That is how I learned about the extra feet available. Having said that, bcz we moved around a lot, it wasn't viable for me to lug my industrial around from place to place. It's now some 23+ years that I only own domestic sewers. Easier to move around & transport, but I do miss the speed of the industrials.

[@mommatanya1]

I have that Reader's Digest book and love it. I picked it up for $1.50 at Goodwill (USA). My granddaughter wants to learn to sew, so of course I want her to have the correct tools. I went on ebay and found the same book for around $5. Gave it to her last week. Of course I inscribed the book with my best wishes for her sewing journey. Hopefully she will spend some school breaks with us so that I can teach her. She has a friend who let's her sew on her machine, so the two are learning together, on thier own.

[@nbks6w8]

Funny….I have that one too and also found it at Goodwill on senior day..$2.00…you got a better deal!!!

[@christinekeogh4199]

During one of the first videos that I watched of Evelyn's I noticed a copy of the Readers Digest Complete Guide to Sewing on a shelf in the background, and immediately decided to subscribe and come back to this channel. I bought my copy in 1977 and remember being so excited when it arrived (I bought it by mail order out of a magazine) that I sat down and started reading it cover to cover. I still refer to it, and it has lots of tape flags and postits stuffed in it to help me quickly get to favourite sections. If I could only have one sewing book I think this one would be it.

[@rosewhelan4636]

Hi Evelyn, After watching this I purchased the vogue book you mentioned. What a great book. Thank you. I love reading it and have learnt so much. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.

[@mauimedows]

I use different books , starting learning pattern making with : “Design-it-yourself Clothes “ book by Cal Patch. Love the clear explanation in this book. Also and old one “The bishop Method of Clothing construction “ Bishop Arch from revised edition 1966. “Costume Close-up”clothing construction and pattern 1750-1790 by Linda Baumgarten & John Watson “Pattern making with confidence” by Nancy Zieman. “Visible Mending” by Jenny Wilding Carson. “Stylish Skirts” by Sato Watanabe “Me and my sewing machine “ by Kate Haxel. Thank you for your wonderful videos 🥰

[@robintheparttimesewer6798]

I have a few of the books you have mentioned. I have three or four good reference books including vogue and the readers digest. When I get myself stuck I pull out all my old how to’s and read them. Like the time I lost my mind and made a suit jacket!! Well didn’t lose my mind as much realized children’s suits are expensive!!! The books helped me figure out pad stitching and the jacket wasn’t too bad if I do say so myself. The problem with hanging out in thrift stores is there are so many books. I have to be very picky now and reminded myself that I’ve run out of room! Not that would stop me if I found a book I’ve been looking for!

[@New_Wave_Nancy]

I inherited that Reader's Digest Guide and forgot about it on the shelf until a year into my sewing journey. It tells you practically everything! (And my copy has some hilarious 1970s projects at the end.)

[@Evelyn__Wood]

🤣🤣 I love dated illustrations! It reminds me of my own fashion college books, that had very dated images 🤣

[@jaycosgrove9765]

NEW WAVE NANC: Does your copy have a project called DEREK THE DINOSAUR, a cuddly Stegosaurus toy? I'd love to make that.

[@daxxydog5777]

I went to a class with Sandra Betzina in the 90s. I loved her show and I learned so much from her!

[@deborahbruno9016]

Hello Evelyn you are the best! My go to is "Singer sewing Book". 1972 Revised. I am just beginning I made a bed pillowcase first. I am now working on a fleece like vest. I stopped after transferring markings to the fabric to do a mock up. I am getting ready to make a paper pattern out of the store bought flimsy tissue pattern. This wouldn't be possibie without you. Thank you

[@Hiker_who_Sews]

I never knew how much I didn't know. 📙📚👗🥻👚👕👖🩳 Love what you're wearing. A 1950's rendition of what Hollywood thought Parisiennes wore. Ooo la la. C'est trés chic!

[@m1m5yp28]

My Readers Digest sewing book is very old and much used. Good choice.

[@rnicholson4135]

I think the Simplicity Sewing Guide was a text book when I did clothing at high school in the 60s. I gave away my two thrifted copies recently but kept the Vogue book you mentioned plus a Vogue Sewing for Children. I really like the Golden Hands series for sewing instructions and have their hardback somewhere in my shed, it was packed away when my house was rebuilt post Christchurch earthquakes. You’ve inspired me to seek it out!

[@wendyspiesman992]

I found the Reader's Digest book at our local thrift store a few years ago, for 1.00. Really a great resource.

[@johanna5688]

They always seem to be around in some 2nd hand shops. Not too hard to find, but really they suit sewing beginners bcz they introduce you to the ABCs of sewing. When I was a beginner, 40 years ago, what I liked best was the introduction of all the different presser feet for sewing machines. I gave my copy of RD away a long time ago. I learnt all that stuff in my early 20s, I am now 60. I did a patterndrafting course making sewing books no longer relevant. I hated sewing with those bought paper patterns. They were a headache to alter to fit, every time. The waist would be too long, the sleeves too tight, the skirt part excessively long, small on the short sleeve cuffs, and etc. Those paper patterns these days are just so expensive, and when I look at the styles on offer, it's no different from what you'd buy ready made at K-Mart, Best For Less, those cheap & nasty, most plain looking simple styles you'd never bother to make yourself while the same styles are just so cheap to get at any bargain basement store. If it's a beautiful item you want to make, you have to design it yourself. This way you get to wear what you like. That's the reason I learnt bcz I thought store-bought clothes were rather dowdy & out of touch with what women really like to wear. Learning to make my own patterns was the best thing I ever did, and far easier to put it all together MY way. Bought patterns would always have some step that truly baffled me. When you design & draft it yourself, you know what you're to do.

[@christenagervais7303]

Love my Readers Digest Guide to sewing! Mine is from the '80's!

[@johanna5688]

I had one too from the 80s. Those earlier issues were actually better than what's come out in the past couple of decades or so. Not a lot has changed though through the years with those RD books. I do know that these days they have far less in them, and they update the picture of a later, more modern sewing machine. The earlier books show all the presser feet available and more of the sewing tools which I liked. The newer versions don't so much. Saying that, I no longer needed my copy and gave it away to someone. I'd long since learned to draft my own patterns.

[@dawnelder9046]

My favorite sewing book is the old Sewing Made Easy. My mother gave me her 1950s copy back in the 70s.

[@AtelierDBurgoyne]

Thank you for sharing your list of books. I found books from the 1980's very helpful when I started to learn: the Singer series and Nancy Zieman books, in particular. Daniel

[@carolynparsons795]

Evelyn I received my readers digest book today its the best sewing book I have ever read, I will be using it more than I thought I would, thanks again for your wonderful videos

[@vylia]

Thanks for the recommendations, Evelyn. I have some books, because when I started to sew, I needed a lot of help for beginners, and I really wanted to just follow instructions. I like "The sewing book", "Love at first stitch", "Teach yourself dressmaking" and "Sew beautiful". Now I prefer books focused on techniques rather than those only focused on following patterns. But every book has good lessons, so I try to learn from all of them. I'll check your recommendations. Thanks for sharing.

[@Evelyn__Wood]

Thanks for the recommendation of the project books, I'm sure someone else will also find it useful 🙂

[@doloresw]

Yes I found a 1976 Reader's Digest Complete Guide to Sewing. It is pretty through. I also love my book The Complete Book of Sewing published by Dorling Kindersley or better known at DK. This one is 1996 print and is great has tons of info and photos for those that are visual learners.

[@adriennesimpson9679]

"Dress Design Draping and Flat Pattern Making" by Marion S. Hillhouse and Evelyn A. Mansfield, Michigan State College, Copyright 1948. That is my favorite.

[@kathie8842]

I always pick up the Reader's Digest book and give it as a gift to people learning to sew....

[@kaydixie5727]

Like your new hair look.

[@marilynbook4211]

I have been sewing for close to 60 years but I cleared out most of my sewing books a few years ago as I have not done clothing for a while, but I made sure to keep my Simplicity Simply Sewing and one or two others.

[@spidermiss2426]

I have two copies of the Readers digest guide to sewing, both purchased from the thrift store.

[@kogabear1]

I sew with vintage sewing machines from 1948-1964. I have collected sewing books that cover those years too. The writing style as well as the machines have changed so much. Probably my favorite ones are by Mary Picken. Most are sponsored by Singer but there is a couple additions that were not. Readers Digest, Vogue, Better Homes and Gardens and McCalls all grace my book shelves.

[@myrtlecatchpole8089]

My mother-in-law gave me her copy of the RD Complete Guide to Sewing 21 years ago. It's from 1976 and it's absolutely brilliant. By coincidence, I ordered a book on fit a couple of days ago. Next on my list is to find suitable books for tailoring and couture techniques. I suspect I will be looking at Claire Schaeffer's books. I love my Vogue knitting books so I will have to see what they offer for sewists. This is a useful video and has certainly given me some focus.

[@Evelyn__Wood]

What a lucky gift! And I think you'll find any from Claire Schaeffer great resources!

[@nicola.p]

Thank you for the 'skills not projects' way of looking at books. There are only so many cushion covers a person can make 😂

[@catladylion5186]

This is just what I need, Evelyn. I’m a self - taught sewer and I have been getting into designing and it has been hard for me to find the right book.

[@miskakerdez3750]

I recently found a copy of the Reader's Digest Complete Guide to Sewing, in excellent shape, in the free shed of our rural garbage dump. Score! Thanks for the book tips.

[@jayebard4120]

Great listing -- I have some of these on my own shelves, too! I'd still rate myself a beginner (sewing for just about a year now) but I've gotten a lot of use out of the Bishop Method books. They're intended to be used in school sewing lessons, so they're structured very sensibly and explain things clearly. Much more helpful than modern project-oriented books that seem to assume a "beginner" comes to the table with a wealth of knowledge already! I also like to have multiple books that cover the same material (say, fitting and pattern alterations for example), so that if the explanation in one is a bit confusing I can check it against another and puzzle it out. Sometimes the text in one will clarify the illustrations in another! And for inspiration, I collect vintage department store catalogs (Sears, Montgomery Ward, etc). I might not be able to send off the order form for the dresses themselves, but when I'm stumped on what neckline/sleeve/pocket detailing I want to use for a piece these things are worth their weight in GOLD. And don't get me started on the lovely little fabric swatches sometimes glued into the pages. Gorgeous, gorgeous things.

[@Evelyn__Wood]

I love those catalogues too! 😍 So worth having around for inspiration on vintage styles!

[@iagonizante]

I've only recently started watching your videos, but every time the intro comes in it makes me smile

[@NewEarthBlog]

Thanks, Evelyn. You showed an antique book I'd not seen, but boo-hoo, other listeners have scarfed them up...for the moment.

[@stephanie6069]

I really like David Coffin's Shirtmaking.

[@cwfan2]

I recently bought "Fitting Finesse" by Nancy Zieman. I find myself with the book open beside my machine or on my cutting table anytime I'm making a garment.

[@cathleenvance4441]

i just have to say that I love your new hair cut and look. You look so pretty. Thanks for the info and book picks. I have The Complete Book of Sewing and it is fabulous.

[@maryphillipps9889]

I still have my old swing book from school days 1960s'.It is called Materially Yours by wellington Girls College NZ, and, I still thumb it. Thankyou.

[@helenweatherby1694]

Ooh! I have that Readers Digest Book. I saw it in a charity shop in Sheffield and bought it for a couple of quid a few years ago. I must flick through it again.

[@s.velez-lorenzo7895]

❤❤miss Wood I had many years ago I had the book the READER'S DIGEST COMPLETE BOOK FOR SEWING I LOVED THAT BOOK SO MUCH. THAT BOOK HELPED ME MAKE SOME DRESSES FOR MY LITTLE GIRLS AT THE TIME. ALSO I PRACTICE IN MAKING A DRESS FOR ME. I SURE WOULD LIKE TO BUY ANOTHER OF THE READER'S DIGEST COMPLETE SEWING GUIDE THANK YOU FOR SHARING LOVE 💘 YOUR CHANNEL ❤TAKE CARE AND GOD BLESS ❤ 😂

[@lostcharge]

I love the Vogue Sewing Book- got it for $5 on EBay a while back, a 70’s copy I also like… Sewing for Plus Sizes: Design, Fit, and Construction for Ample Apparel by Barbara Deckart Any pattern fitting book by Nancy Zieman Both I got for super cheap on eBay. Wonderful reference books!

[@jenianydots]

I have the Readers Digest Complete Guide to Sewing, and the Readers Digest Complete Guide to Needlework. They are my favourite go to books.

[@kckazcoll1]

thank you for these great book recommendations, Evelyn. Two books I have used are Patternmaking for fashion design by Helen Armstrong-Jones and The Palmer/Pletsch Complete Guide to Fitting by Marta Alto and Pati Palmer

[@Evelyn__Wood]

Great recommendations 😃

[@cherylp.3347]

I have the Palmer/Pletsch book too, it’s a good one.

[@hannahcrumley3103]

Great suggestions- thank you for giving good looks into the books too! I have a library of books by Nancy Zieman from her Sewing with Nancy series. These books have been a great reference for quilting, clothes making& bag making.

[@Evelyn__Wood]

Oh yes! I bet she published a huge series, and I don't have any!

[@jayneterry8701]

Oh that would be great to have! Her shows were so good. I believe they are still online.

[@l.baughman1445]

Yup. What's helpful too is her style is encouraging and breaks things down. Different styles of books can make a big difference to match one's learning style.

[@lindaendres2209]

@@jayneterry8701 yes I believe all 25 years are on line and the Sewists and designers @ her Store are still making Videos (for youTube) with many great new products and techniques.

[@cliftonknits102]

I have had the Readers Digest on my bookshelf for many years. It is my go to when I need to know how to do something more complicated, like bound buttonholes or welt pockets. I've spotted it several times on the shelf in the background.

[@carolynridlon3988]

My favorite sewing books are: 1) Singer - I own several from 1940's thru early 1980's. Especially since i own a singer touch n sew 600e model (1963-1965). These have been my top favorite ones. 2) McCalls sewing book - good basic instructions & illustrations for both the home decor along with fashion sewing 3) simplicity sewing books. Same as the McCall's for home decor & fashion sewing. I have not been impressed with the readers digest book, butterick book & vogue is too complicated & more couture than I sew. 3)

[@puresalvation2009]

Evelyn. You are not wrong. The old books are way better than the modern ones. The new offers to get away from project lead content and more towards skill related content in their books. I found all my sewing and dressmaking books either in thrift charity shops in the UK. Or second-hand private sales. I have both versions of the reader's Digest complete guide to sewing. Early release in my opinion is the far better of the two. The new ones ok but not so good. I also have the Vogue book of sewing that you have and it is indeed a really good book. I also have the McCalls colour guide sewing. I also have the good Housekeeping guide to sewing. I have the singer guide to sewing book from the 70s. I have a book called patternmaking for fashion design by Helen Joseph Armstrong. I also have pattern making for women's wear by Winifred Aldrich. I also have more dress pattern design by Natalie Bray. I'd like to get the other books in your collection though. I do have one or two fitting books. I also have a book called the Hamlyn complete sewing course. But Evelyn. What I can see you have everything you need with the collection of books you have. Thank you very much for uploading this video. Pure.

[@joanneentwistle7653]

I learned about sewing from my mother's "Sewing Made Easy" by Mary Lynch. It was such a useful book to me that I bought my own copy when I got older.

[@elainelott9916]

I definitely love the readers digest book !!! My other favorite has been my old singer sewing book. It is very explanatory and easy to understand.

[@carolynparsons795]

I just brought the Readers Digest 1978 complete guide to sewing , I hope it arrives before Christmas,

[@kahrenthriscutt3269]

I found an old McCall's sewing skills guide book at the local St John's charity shop, it cost me $4 nzd .. I was very happy !!😁

[@ilanywah]

It's like you read my mind! I just took my mum's Complete Guide to Sewing with me to use (recognised the cover sitting on your table before you mentioned it) - hers is rectangular landscape wise, with a black background, but same image. I was looking up some info on waistbands (curved), what I wanted to know wasn't in there (it may be in another section though). However, overall it's an excellent book.

[@habituscraeftig]

I have my late Gramma's copy - which is just as well, for my mother cannot be parted from hers!

[@maryalgar8779]

I have the Reader's Digest one you showed and it is very helpful. Reader's Digest also made a similar one for needlework and it too is great. I would like to learn pattern drafting -- not alteration but actually how to draft patterns, so not sure which book would be best for that.

[@johanna5688]

I can recommend Make Your Own Dress Patterns by Adele P. Margolis. It's been around a while, but still in print. I like it anyway. I did a patterndrafting course so long ago, and this book shows you how to change a basic collar, sleeve, you name it, into different styles.

[@gemmanonymous5739]

I have a copy of the McCall's Colour Guide to Sewing (my edition is from 1979 but from the style of the illustrations I think they had been publishing it for at least a decade). It covers loads of topics (fitting, guides to fabric, hand sewing and seam finishes). The only area it doesn't really cover is knit fabrics (for that, I quite like Tilly Walnes' Stretch! book).

[@VFLinSC]

My mom lent me her copy of the RD book that’s identical to yours when I began my sewing journey about 6 months ago. She bought it brand new however many years ago that was. She says I’m “supposed” to give it back but…I may conveniently forget to return it ;)

[@melb.4609]

There are always inexpensive copies of this book available on Ebay. I just checked and there is one for US$4.99 and that price includes the shipping!

[@ecologicaladam7262]

The Vogue Sewing Book's been my bible almost since it first came out!

[@johanna5688]

Nothing beats one on one, face to face tuition. When I was a baby beginner 40 years ago, I took sewing classes. I'm one of those ppl who need to be shown. A sewing course beats ANY book hands down. I dove off the deep end bcz I'd never sewn b4 and I didn't know a soul who did. It was all new to me. I had a thirst to learn. I started with the sewing classes using bought paper patterns. Then a few years later after so much practice learning to sew all sorts of clothing, I was then brave enough to enrol into patterndrafting classes. I really loved it. My happiest memories were those baby beginner sewing lessons bcz that's where it all began. I wanted to sew clothes in styles that didn't exist in shops. Being 20 in 1981, I just loved those 60s styles. I still love them. The 70s & up to early 80s were fab too, but the 60s beats the lit for me.

[@madis1366]

Rediscovering my love for sewing again at 60 and thank you for assisting in the discovery! Just ordered the Readers Digest book from your Amazon link, can wait for it to arrive. Hoping to enroll in your course soon. Thank you, thank you!!

[@rebeccamurphy7804]

I have a much loved Simplicity's Simple the Best Sewing Book from the 90s. Taught myself how to sew with that book :)

[@annguglielmino8989]

I got a used copy of them Reader's Digest book. It is upside down and backwards. 😄 Throws me off every time I open it.

[@bunhelsingslegacy3549]

Yay, I already have one good reference book!!! I started reading the Reader's Digest guide last year, cover to cover.

[@dansreneewitness4Him]

I’m trying to find a copy of the book “There’s an art to a dart.” Idk the author. I do know that it helps you take any pattern and make it into any other item you’d like. And fun to read! I’m sure it’s out of print.

[@andrearyan816]

I am always excited to find a vintage sewing book, if I find one with a handwritten inscription inside the cover it is a bonus. Such a shame that this will not be left for future generations due to digital books becoming popular

[@johanna5688]

I know what you mean. I believe too many books are sent to the dumpsters as ppl no longer purchase books so much anymore. It's such a shame. Books are just so much more accessible than something in an ebook, and it's always there, unlike a computer that has to be first fired up, etc. It's not handy.

[@cziegle3794]

Yay top 5 likes and first comment. Love sewing related videos.

[@Evelyn__Wood]

Thankyou for watching and commenting Christine 😃

[@kingcheryl1654]

Thanks Evelyn….this video prompted me to look at my books. Have a Singer Sewing Series from 1972 that was my mom’s. Has step by step adjusting patterns including pants! Great info on basics, body measurements and even traditional methods for creating a tailored jacket. Wow!

[@rebeccahellrung2461]

Thank you for your videos! Just bought The Complete Guide to Sewing and Fast Fit. ❤

[@dorothymarquis7529]

I have two Dorling Kindersley books on sewing, as well as the RD book (which is packed away somewhere). I also have pattern drafting and adapting books - also packed away. I have a book detailing fitting and pattern adaptations. I think I need something on couture. And design.