I've been an avid fan of the Great British Sewing Bee since it's started (yes, I know it's only on it's second series but hey, I watch the episodes over and over again!) and I've always wanted to make something the contestants have made. I've wanted to make so many things, my bank balance wouldn't be able to cope with all the material I'd have to buy!
When I bought this book, I really didn't know what to expect because of the wrapping on the outside stopping you from having a sneaky peek. I was kind of expecting to see lots of swoon-worthy photos of Patrick in his finest clothing. As you could see from the outside, the book was being sold with a "pattern pack" which I thought was quite a good addition. I'd be lying if I said I didn't waste some of my money on craft books I don't really need or will read once then put in the cupboard or buy then never actually read. This seems to be a re-occurring pattern in my adult life. I buy stuff I don't need, just because I want it. I have no will power at all! But alas, I took a trip to my local Asda a couple of months ago to do my weekly shopping and found this beauty at £12 which was an absolute steal as I'd seen it for £25+ elsewhere. And I instantly had to buy it.
The book itself is a lovely chunky hardback book. And, if you're anything like me who loves the smell of new books, this smells amazing. (Weird, I know but don't judge me!). As I've said before, included with the book is a pattern pack which has 5 sheets full of patterns from items in the book. For someone like me who has NEVER used a sewing pattern, I was really daunted by the thought of using them to actually make something. I'd say this book is aimed at all skill levels but if you're just starting out, please take the time to read through the book before you hack at your lovely new fabric with some scissors!
Flicking through the book, yes there are some photos of Patrick and yes he looks beautiful. But, this is an actual sewing book. The proof reading could have been a little better as I've noticed a few spelling mistakes, and I'm not sure if they've actually tried out the patterns they've talked about but this book is actually really quite good. For a novice like me, I've been pleasantly surprised at how easy this book is to follow.
I've only followed one pattern at the minute (I've been so busy the past couple of months, my sewing machine has regrettably taken a place on the shelf) but it's actually turning out okay. It's the "Simple T-shirt" pattern which is found more or less half way through the book. The pattern for this top is also included on the pattern sheets. (Please excuse my shadow on this photo, the sun is blaring right into my living room at the minute!)
I'm yet to finish the project as I've said, but it's actually turning out okay. Being a larger busted girl, I've had to use the largest size meaning the shoulders are more than likely going to fall off me but actually, I don't mind if it does.
The other patterns in the book include:
- Leggings (made by all contestants on series 2)
- Simple skirt
- Women's bowling shirt
- Men's simple shirt
- 1960's coat (made by Tamara on series 2)
- Baby's teddy pram suit
All of these patterns state what sort of skill level they're aimed for and every pattern is printed on the sheet (apart from the simple skirt I think) so it should be relatively easy to get sewing. The patterns have a range of sizes all outlined too, so if you're like me and are in "inbetween" size for high street clothing, you really could tailor your own clothing to fit you perfectly.
I could go into so much detail about this book but I'd literally be writing forever! If you've loved the Sewing Bee series and have wanted to make an item of clothing from the series, please, go and get this book. I'm hoping you'll be pleasantly surprised too, I'm so glad I made this purchase.
♥
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