Book Review -Basic Black: 26 Edgy Essentials for the Modern Wardrobe

“Basic Black” is a gem in the world of sewing books, offering a collection of 26 chic and edgy garment patterns that are sure to elevate any modern wardrobe. Authored by Sato Watanabe, a renowned figure in Japanese sewing circles, this book provides sew-it-yourself Western-sized patterns alongside detailed instructions and diagrams, making it accessible to sewers of all skill levels.

The beauty of “Basic Black” lies in its versatility and originality. From the sophisticated Lace Shirred Blouse to the effortlessly stylish Flannel Short Coat, each design exudes a sense of modernity and sophistication. What sets this book apart is its emphasis on customization, allowing sewers to tailor each garment to suit their personal style and body shape.

One of the standout features of “Basic Black” is its practicality. The designs range from softly feminine to smartly-tailored, catering to a diverse range of tastes and occasions. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece or a versatile staple, this book has something to offer for everyone.

Moreover, the inclusion of Western-sized sewing patterns ensures that the designs are accessible to a wider audience. With easy-to-follow instructions and adaptable patterns, sewers can create professional-quality pieces at home quickly and inexpensively.

Next Pattern:

I am just smitten with this felt gingerbread house bag. This would make such a sweet special Christmas accessory for a kid. It’s a free pattern at Benzie Design, designed by Gracie from Hello Gracie Makes. It’s packed with adorable gingerbread house details, like swirls and stripes and scallops adoring the doors and windows.

And while all those details might seem like this would be a complicated pattern, it’s actually not. The bag itself is made from felt, which makes finishes edges unnecessary. (All of those scalloped edges are just cut from felt, no edge finishing required.) The strap is super simple, made from rope with knotted ends. And all those details are made with some basic hand embroidery stitches. Sparkle felt makes it extra cute.

The striped scallop roof is actually the top flap of the bag. A magnetic snap makes it a secure closure. The rope straps are attached through felt loops at the side of the bag.

They rate this project as an intermediate level, and it should take about 6 hours to make start to finish. That’s doable for a Saturday project or a couple of evenings. Full color photos step you through the entire process.

The project includes a shopping list for all of your supplies. They’ve got a shop so you can order all of them from Benzie if you like and get exactly the supplies used in the project. I noticed it includes a pair of scallop shears, which makes cutting all the scalloped edges for the roof and around the door a breeze.

Finished dimensions of the little felt gingerbread bag are approximately 6 ½” wide x 7 ½” tall. That’s the perfect size to hold a small book, a small toy, or a notepad and some cute pens.

Go to Benzie Design to get the tutorial and free pattern for the felt gingerbread house bag.

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