Make, Sew and Mend: Traditional Techniques to Sustainably Maintain and Refashion Your Clothes

If you have watched Bernadette's videos on YouTube, you will immediately recognize her Unique and Merrie voice in the text - witty, and effortlessly entertaining. In this book she focuses on foundational sewing knowledge (equipment needed, fabric choice, and the most commonly used hand-sewing techniques). But then nestled among the more familiar knowledge, she will artfully slide in an Historical Curiosity, Clever Tip, or Novel Insight, such as how to make a bespoke tape measure from strips of paper. She also includes an entire section on the care and repair of clothing. She reminds us that our forebears were environmentally ahead of their time. They ensured that clothes lasted a darn lot longer than they do now -- instead of being casually thrown away in landfills or burned, as 85% of modern clothing is. Is this a book for a beginner sewer? Definitely yes. She is thorough and meticulous in her instructions. The photographs are clear and beautifully lit. Mercifully, she uses strongly contrasting thread so the reader can see the actual position of stitching in the fabric. Is this a book for the advanced sewer? Probably not, as it does not cover more complex matters such as tailoring. (We can only hope she may endeavor to write such a tome in future.) Is this a book for those interested in historical dress and costuming? Absolutely. That is her area of expertise, and there are many interesting and informative observations sprinkled throughout the text. She thoughtfully also included several commentaries by people who practice that art. We are treated to many photographs showing close up details of the stitching in historic garments. Mainly, however, it is a useful introduction for people who wish to wield a needle and thread with some authority in hand-sewing their own projects. The book itself is well made. The heft and glossy finish of paper are satisfying, and provide support to the highly readable text and photographs. The binding feels strong and sound. The choice of fonts and artwork show that thought and care went into it's making. MAKE, SEW AND MEND is a work that is a lovely and inspiring read.

Wow! Short and sweet. If you are building new clothing, contemporary or otherwise, looking to give your current items longevity, or seeking to improve your sewing skills: this book is for you. Basic stitches, pattern managing, repairs, etc., all with clear instructions and pictures. Lovely "expert" commentary. Whether you sew couture or hem jeans, this is an effective book to keep around. I've been sewing historical clothing for 40 years and I learned new techniques from Banner's lovely tome.

I have been sewing, including hand stitching, since I was quite young. In fact, I didn't start using a machine for sewing until my kids were getting old enough that their Halloween costumes got more involved than my hands could handle quickly enough to suit their whims. That was 20 years ago, but even though I spend the majority of my time since then on sewing machines, I find time to handstitch every day and often add hand stitching details to my machine stitched projects for best finish. If you are a beginner, this book will teach you everything you need to know. Instructions are clear, thoughtfully presented for different learning styles, and beautifully photographed. Maybe most important, this book fosters a love and appreciation for hand stitching, even for seamstresses who can't imagine *not* using their machines for ease & speed. It applauds the time and effort of hand stitching in a way that creates a desire to do it, and that's a tough sell in modern sewing. Bernadette does a stellar job of not treating any hand sewing task as though it's difficult, breaking them down to their fundamentals and building the skill through steps. If you are more experienced, this book feels like older sewing books, which isn't surprising considering the source! There is a quiet and reflective quality to the writing and the visual presentation. Hand sewing is such a meditative practice once you've acquired some skill with it and this is something that is at the core of this book's philosophy. Plus, those of us who do hand stitch often know that you actually do get quite fast and it's not actually as "slow sewing" as one might think - this book explains that as well & presents it as an efficient and practical option. Overall, this is a book that you will give your kids in a pile of "must have" books when you are teaching them to sew. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who keeps a sewing library, all levels. ~m

I recieved mine today! I pre-ordered it in February, which ok, wait time was annoying but very glad I finally got it. Beautiful work, i find the images and explanations very clear and helpful. Plus, the little blurbs by other sewists and historians perfect little time capsules, there is something quite poetic about a compilation of techniques from the past interwoven with very current stories. Much love to miss Banner and team for this work, will be a nice addition to my sewing room!

I read it once-through the moment I got my hands on it and it was like watching a newly-uploaded, extra-long video. The pictures are lovely though not as detailed as the video medium we're all used to, the authorial voice is very distinctive even in writing, and overall it's a very nice book to have around. It might not be the best reference for a total beginner to start their sewing journey with, but I think it works great for somebody who has been interested in sewing for a while, watched some tutorials and want to learn more about historical/sustainable methods. The book is also great for near-beginners who want to fill in gaps in their knowledge or for the more experienced, as a refresher. I like the few "Features" pages. There are so many other how-to-sew manuals; I assumed that a reader of this niche/alternative/nerdy book, being similarly nerdy, would appreciate others sharing their diverse journeys in fashion. Think of them as the "grandma made this dish when I was a kid, now it takes me back to my childhood on the farm" story before a recipe - completely skippable, but adds a touch of humanity.

I think this book explains and shows a lot for those like me that are still learning. How to determine what fabric you have, how to treat it before sewing, with washing, and of course how to sew. I do not have nor want a machine, and for me it is loaded with great tips and lessons. Someone is saying there is nothing about darning, well, in mine there is a whole chapter about it. And Bernadette is giving space in her book to teach some other lessons, that some people seem to have a real issue with. Take it as some added pages, that try to open a closed mind, and bring more understanding for people that may not be like you. You don't have to read them. You don't have to agree to all, and you don't have to be like her. It is her book, and she can bring what ever she wants in it to people. If you are a hater of all that is different from what you think is right, this book may not be for you, but if you are a lover, it sure is! I do recommend it, for sure for the beginner, or the lover of historical ways of sewing.

It's perfect! Just packed with information, I'm already starting to think about at least 10 new projects in my head.

I find the book very useful, especially reminding me that I do not need all the possible sewing supplies but can very well do practically everything by hand. Half the book was not a news to me, the ohtehr half privided very detailed and simple guidance how to insert the gusset for example. Plus I enjoy tutorials on paper much more than in the video - so much less stress.