The Home-Sewn Home: 50 projects for curtains, shades, pillows, cushions, and more

I'm sorry there isn't a "LOOK INSIDE" option for this book because what I saw on the cover did not do justice to what I found inside! I usually don't like to buy a book that doesn't have the option of having a glance inside but I took a chance and I'm so happy that I did! This is a fabulous all-around guide to dress up my home with harmonizing textiles.It is so much less expensive to make my own coordinated curtains, pillows, furniture coverings, and etc. than buying them. So, I have been doing so for years. I wish I would have had this book when I first started out. Trial and error is the hard way to learn...trust me!The book is arranged in six chapters: CURTAINS, (unlined, lined, ruffle-top, pinch-pleat, valance-topped, and covered cornice ;) SHADES, (roller, unlined Roman, lined Roman, and lined Swedish ;) PILLOWS, (eleven different designs: from ruffled to bolsters to box-edge cushions ;) COVERS, (for chairs, tables, padded headboard, bed cover, quilt, bed skirt, dust ruffle ;) ACCESSORIES, (table runner, placemats, napkins, tea cozy, lampshade cover, ironing board cover, gathered sink skirt, drawstring & clothespin bags, padded coat hanger, apron, and beanbag seat), and BASIC TECHNIQUES.Each project comes with step-by-step instructions, how to measure properly to determine fabric requirements, and a materials and tools list. Tips and techniques are given with each project as well.In BASIC TECHNIQUES: There is a guide in selecting the proper fabrics to use for projects. What fabric is "right" for the job? For instance, it is important to take into consideration the wear and tear the final article will receive. Arbuthnott breaks down the different types of fibers and where I should or should not use them. A hard-wearing cotton/linen blend is recommended for pieces that receive a lot of use, (i.e. sofa covering) but more delicate fabrics (i.e. silk) can be used in pillows. She also discusses color design (I always find that helpful.) There are cutting methods, stay-stitching, and how to match pattern repeats. Instructions for nine different hand stitches and three seam types. Mitered hems are covered in detail along with weighting hems so curtains will hang better. Also shown are binding, piping, darts, gathers, pleats, zippers, pinch pleats, and curtain hanging methods! Whew!WOW! Everything I need to know is completely explained. This book will certainly be getting a LOT of use in my home! I'm ready for a complete "re-do."I think the projects in this book range from fairly easy to somewhat difficult. This is just my opinion. I tend to separate difficult from time-consuming. Some of these projects will be time-consuming. The lined and pinch-pleated drapes that I intend to make will take longer than unlined panels. I wish I were better able to tell you with some kind of confidence exactly the skill level required for the projects. I vacillate about this all the time. To be on the safe side, I would say someone with confidence and some sewing experience could make the majority of the projects.To sum up: This book is chock full of beautiful designs for every room. The finished product will look professional. The fabric choices are great for inspiration. The instructions are excellent. A fabulous book that I will use for years to come and recommend to all.

5 Stars

i love the book. The only thong I dispike is the absence of projects for the bathroom.

The book had so many pretty projects, I only found a handful to be in my sewing level unfortunately. The cover depicts "simple" hand made type items but truth be told only a handful are. Also the 50 projects are made up of only 5 categories. It was enjoyable to look through at the pictures, but all in all I found myself flipping rather fast throughout the entire book~

step by step instructions are very well written and easy to understand. has a good variety of useful home projects. not everyone is an experienced seamstress and the instructions are helpful for projects that you haven't tackled before/

This book is all I need for home sewn projects. Very practical and easy to use, there are helpful hints on how to make everything from curtains to catch-all bags. Easy to follow patterns with lovely,inspiring pictures. It's the best reference book I've yet to find for the occasional seamstress.

I liked this book and the projects were easy and will be fun to try. Will be choosing a first project soon!

Fabric details cozy up a home, and these ideas are great. The instructions and drawings are just what I needed.

I do love craft books that are easy to follow, and this is one of them.Filled with projects that are easy to replicate even for a novice like me, you will soon find yourself enthused to carry out more and more home-based projects and relish in your achievements.Gorgeous photographs run through this book and my friend has already absconded with it, so it must be good as she's no crafter.

Good suggestions for window treatments and lovely photographs. Slightly too much focus on Ms Arbuthnott's (admittedly lovely) extremely expensive fabrics for my taste. Skimpy on detail but fine for a reasonably confident sewer.

I have bought this as a Christmas present for my mum who has recently got into crafts and sewing. The book looks very informative and beautifully put together, I know she will love it and enjoy making interiors from it.

Lovely book to flick through and clear instructions. Haven't made anything yet but l'm looking forward to trying sone things out. May have a go first with sone cheap fabric before making the real things.

This is a brilliant book for the experienced or not so experienced as it explains in simple terms and shows in detail. Lots of good ideas for things to make for presents and for your own home. I would recommend this book. Makes an ideal gift - I purchased one for myself and then another as a Christmas gift.