Creating with fabric is easier and less time consuming with the wide variety of projects this book includes. The contents page breaks down fabric projects in four categories, from taking less than 1 hour to make, up to more than three hours. Readers can easy locate and choose a gift to complete, and know approximately how long it will take to make.

Beginners will learn how to choose fabrics, how to care for them, how to perform a wash test on fabrics, and learn the different types of fabrics. Several pages list fabric terms and the description of each term, so following a pattern or reading instructions will be easier and less confusing.

There are eleven projects that take less than one hour. They include projects that recycle fabric such as the Coat Sleeve Bag, and the Tie Pouch. There are seven gift projects that take one to two hours, and include one that recycles old sweaters into new hats. Seven gift projects are included that require two to three hours to complete. Readers will find fun patterns on how to make a hand-stitched scarf, reversible hooded towel/blanket, and a tweed scarf for gifts for men. For readers who have more time, there are five gift patterns that require more than three hours of time to complete, and include a baby quilt.

Each project is introduced with a paragraph of information, which is followed by a materials needed list, coordinating notes, and numbered instructions. Colorful photographs show readers the finished project, and for some, step-by-step photographs.

The book includes a section that includes six variations of wrapping fabric gifts, using fabric itself. These projects are very unique and add a personal touch to your gifts. Gift recipients will find them memorable. A project is also included on how to make gift tags using leftover ribbon.

The last section of the book explains the tools and techniques used and needed to make the fabric gifts. Beginners can read about everything from pins and needles to cutting material. Page 139 provides readers with recommended reading for sewing, inspiration, how-to books, and magazines. Following that, pages are provided with sources for project supplies, which include addresses, phone numbers and Web sites. A helpful index and acknowledgement page end the book.

Cynthia Treen presents useful and creative gift projects that make wonderful birthday, thank you, Christmas, and other special holiday gifts. The included details regarding tools, fabric, terms and fabric care, allow this book to cover many areas of sewing expertise.

Last-Minute Fabric Gifts, 30 Hand-Sew, Machine Sew & New-Sew Projects, by Cynthia Treen, photographs by Karen Philippi, STS Craft, A Melanie Falick Book, New York, Stewert, Tabori & Chang, An imprint of Harry N. Abrams, Inc., 2006, ISBN: 1-58479-485-2, $24.95 USA, $31.95 Canada, 14.95 U.K.

Additional Author Informaton:

Cynthia Treen, http://cynthiatreenstudio.blog spot.com/

Additional Information on Photographer:

Karen Philippi, http://www.karenphilippi.com/b io.htm

Learn more about this author, Kristina Nelson.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

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