Sewing

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Review and giveaway: Sew Liberated

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coverIf the word “applique” conjures up images of Sunbonnet Sue and gingham-checked Scottie dogs, then you haven’t seen the new twist on applique by modern sewists.

In Sew Liberated: 20 Stylish Projects for the Modern Sewist, Meg McElwee captures the spirit of this new approach with a handful of projects that use simple applique patterns to create items for the home, items to wear, and items for baby.

Flipping through the book, I found myself saying, “Oh, I am SO making this!”  again… and again… and again.  Standout projects for me were the Capture the Moment camera bag (the color and texture are such a happy departure from the typical black canvas camera bag), and the Funny Animals Children’s Tote (ribbon legs for the critter – oh my!).

As much as I want to keep this book for ever and ever, I’m giving away my review copy to one lucky Craft Gossip reader.  Leave a comment on this post to enter.

Deadline for entry is midnight CST on February 15, 2010.

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Comments

  2. It sounds so much fun and I obviously need it becaue my first thought was… what’s wrong with gingham-checked scotty dogs? *g* 😀

    Thanks for the chance to win.

  4. It’s so kind of you to offer this giveaway! I’ve been wanting this book for so long, it looks amazing! Thank you so much for the generous giveaway!

  6. I’ve just found Meg’s blog and have really enjoyed her work. I would love to add her book to my library and get to work making her awesome projects!

  11. I looked thru the preview and LOVED the dark green bag. I hope I win…I hope I win… (*crossing my fingers)

  22. How perfect! I would love to have a copy of it! Sounds like the perfect thing to keep be busy and create a few fun pieces for spring!! =)

  24. Oh, man. I saw this book at Barnes and Noble and fell in loooovvvvve, but my wallet was all, “Uh, how about groceries, moron?” So now I’m well-fed and ready to craft my ayuss off…with that book?

  25. I’d love a copy– I’m learning to sew and have spent a lot of time with Amy Karol’s book– and I’ve been hunting around for new challenges to tackle!

  27. I read her blog and would love to learn how to applique like she does! Have you ever seen a cheerier skirt?

  28. I am already in love with the skirt on the cover!! Would love to see what other treasures are inside.

  29. ooh- I was just looking at this on amazon! It came up after I bought Betz White’s “Warm Fuzzies” (which is incredible). It’s definetly on my ‘to get’ list

  33. This book would be worthwhile just for the pattern for that camera bag! I use lots of recycled denim and I can ‘see’ that bag in denim. It sure would be a great book to win!

  37. Oh, thanks so much for the chance!! I’d love to work on projects I’ve read about from this book!

  39. This book sits on my amazon wishlist waiting to be purchased. It would be great to WIN it instead!!! Thanks for the opprotunity.

  41. Everytime I go to the book store I flip through this book. It looks so cool! I really shouldn’t buy anything else until I finish what I have soooo…I should win it instead! 😉

  50. I saw it at the craft store this weekend. Unfortunately hubby made me choose between the book and fabric! This is my shot to have both. Thanks!

  51. I really enjoy looking and dreaming about the projects in this book everytime I browse through it at the fabric store…I really want it!

  53. i have tried to sneak a peek at this book but can never seem to find it in stock! i have loved the pics i have seen posted on line…. yum!

  56. Cool book and projects. I would love to curl up with it. With so much snow coming again to MD I need something to read!!!!

  61. I have a hold on it in our library, but it is taking soooooo long! My grown daughters and my 15 year old son decided that this would be the year they all learned to sew. We would get a lot of use out of this book.

  64. I came here after googling the book for reviews and now am so glad I did as I’ve found another crafty blog to read! Thanks xoxo

  69. Wow I’ve been looking for good books on sewing, but they’re hard to find. Looks Good, and even a chance to win! Cool!

Have you read?

DIY Tic-Tac-Toe Flannel Board – Fun and Portable Game

Looking for an easy and enjoyable sewing project that doubles as a fun, interactive game? This DIY Tic-Tac-Toe Flannel Board tutorial is the perfect blend of crafting, sewing, and classic family fun! Whether you’re making it for kids, grandkids, or even yourself, this project is a wonderful way to combine creativity with entertainment.

This handmade Tic-Tac-Toe set is ideal for road trips, quiet time at home, or even as a thoughtful gift. The soft flannel material allows the game pieces to stay in place without slipping, making it perfect for travel. Plus, it’s completely reusable—no need for paper or chalk, just grab your felt X’s and O’s and play over and over again!

This tutorial walks you through the entire process, from selecting your fabric and cutting the board to stitching the perfect game grid. If you love scrap-busting projects, this is a great way to use up fabric leftovers while creating something practical and fun.

Not only is this a simple sewing project, but it’s also a fantastic way to encourage screen-free play and family bonding time. Whether you’re a seasoned sewer or a beginner looking for an easy project, this tutorial will guide you every step of the way.

So grab your fabric, thread, and let’s sew up a game that brings joy to everyone!

Check out the full tutorial here!

Tutorial: Chicken bean bags for juggling or other toss games

Tutorial: Sew a carrying case for your DS Lite games

Starfish Felt Fishing Game – Free Sewing Pattern