Amazon.com
Sewing with vintage textiles provides a unique way to connect with the past while exercising creativity to arrive at something brand new. Fabric magician Jennie Atwood clearly has a knack for turning old tablecloths, hankies, dishtowels, ties, sweaters, and other flea-market finds into exquisite blouses, jackets, pillows, bed linens, table skirts, purses, and children's wear. In Sew Vintage, Atwood offers extensive general directions on design and construction, exploring methods for altering commercial patterns, simple draping techniques on a dress form, finishing details, and further embellishments with beads, buttons, appliqués, and lace. She also explains how to find and clean vintage pieces (wisely cautioning us to steer clear of real antiques) and how to develop a layout that takes best advantage of inherent features, such as running an elaborate tablecloth border along the front and hem of a shirt. Fairly simple step-by-step projects incorporate vintage fabrics in home accessories like potpourri bags and show how to create children's clothing that allows for growing room. Note, however, that the book's major emphasis--garment construction--presumes at least intermediate sewing skill. But anyone with a bit of experience and a desire to look at old fabrics in inventive new ways will enjoy Atwood's confident guidance and the many lovely photos that exhibit her wonderful creations. --Amy Handy
