Review of Sew Simple Magazine

As a beginner in the world of sewing, I searched through a stack of magazines to help me better understand some basics. What I found was "Sew Simple: Basic Skills for Successful Sewing." This magazine, though a little pricey without a yearly subscription, is a wonderful resource to get you started on your way to better sewing techniques.

The Overview

Sew Simple is an offshoot sewing magazine that is put out by Quilt It. In these 'special' issues, you will find a myriad of basic sewing techniques. The copy I have features a how-to in making a short and trendy little skirt. Not only do they give you suggestions on how to spruce up a Kwik Sew pattern, but they give you a discount on the featured pattern if you order it by mail.

If you are a new sewer, this magazine will lead you through some common problems. The ongoing question of what type of closure to fit on your garment is answered with a few easy and traditional solutions. Not only can you do the basic button hole and button closure, but Sew Simple shows how to make snaps look like buttons (omitting the difficulty of aligning button holes for beginner's). Also in this issue, is an introduction to shirring, making your own fabric covered buttons, waistband and hemming solutions, and easy embellishments to personalize pre-made clothing.

Although not all projects in each issue of Sew Simple are beginner friendly, there are usually a few patterns that you can start on right away.

Benefits

I find that figuring out what colors to use for a project is a big issue. In Sew Simple they give you a heads up on the latest fabrics that are in style as well as the colors of the season, taking out much of the work you'd spend in research. Sew Simple also provides a few examples of each project or a list of other ideas you can try, thus giving you a starting point for your own creativity.

A great feature of Sew Simple is the full color diagrams. For example, the section on closures gives you a step by step close up of how to insert the sewn or no-sew snaps. The test that goes along with each diagram is simple to understand, giving you exacting measurements toward a professional looking garment. In sections such as waistbands, Sew Simple offers a basic explanation on the function of a waistband and how to choose which one is right for the type of garment you are making.

Worth it?

The newsstand price per issue is $5.99, but the information Sew Simple provides to the beginning seamstress is invaluable. The simple step by step instructions combined with the beginner's project ideas, make Sew Simple a great value for those that desire to take their sewing skills to the next level.