Tilly Walnes

nonfiction/sewing. A beautiful book for intermediate sewists, filled with patterns for projects (scarves, dresses, skirts, and a blouse) that many will actually want to make--and which will provide opportunities for learning a nice variety of techniques at the same time. Tilly breaks the processes down into digestible parts for those who are still a bit intimidated by sewing, and also provides loads of great advice, from choosing fabrics that suit your pattern, to choosing patterns that suit show more your lifestyle, adjusting patterns to fit your body, and so on. I don't think this would be a stand-alone reference book for sewing (I would also recommend Gertie's books for more in-depth explanations of techniques--though her projects tend to be more intermediate/expert), but it would likely be a welcome gift for someone starting out.

update: after testing the Mimi blouse pattern, I wanted to add that some of the instructions were a little confusing (I had to read and re-read several times before I was fairly confident I knew what she was trying to say--maybe more pictures would help?), but that she does walk you through the extra steps to create beautifully turned out collars and other lovely details. If you are an intermediate sewist looking to take your craft to the next level, this would be a good place to start. show less

British reality TV starlet Walnes brings her 60s vintage vibe to this excellent primer for beginning sewers. Thoughtful tips, a bit of practice with self-made patterns, and ideas for improvising based on basic shapes mesh with mod photos. Highly recommended. Reviewed digital galley provided by the publisher on NetGalley.com. (91)

nonfiction (sewing clothes with stretch knits)
The patterns are mostly plain (raglan sleeves, mock-turtleneck, twist neckline, pencil skirt, half-circle skirt, hoodie sweatshirt with sweatpants) but thanks to the stretchy fabric, very adaptable for various body-types as well as different fashion tastes. Tilly's instructions are very accessible, friendly, and encouraging :)
I've been sewing with t-shirt jersey for 10 years, and I learned a few things just from glancing through this book. A nice show more primer on sewing with knits.
updated (6/2/2019): have tried the pattern for the raglan tee; while my technique could still use practice, the pattern and instructions get a thumbs up. show less

I would recommend this book to anyone who is teaching themselves to sew their own garments! Sewing techniques are introduced in the context of the projects, which gradually increase in difficulty. I have not had a chance to use any of the included patterns yet so will update this review later.