Decorative Machine Stitch

Very good book for those interested in heirloom projects. These projects ideas will work on most sewing machines. Since there is a new edition out, this one is very well priced. I have not seen the new edition to know if there is a great deal of updating and new information. But this is a nice book for heirloom details.

This is the only book I found that shows how to use the basic machine stitches for decorative sewing. Most books elaborate on how to use the fancy computerized decorative stitches available on the expensive sewing machines.Today, most sewing machines come with a basic amount of utility stitches and this book shows by increasing the stitch size, using double stitching and staggering, beautiful effects are created. The results will take time and practice, but are well worth it.

If you don't have the book to flip through, I suppose the most important thing to know is: what techniques are covered? Briefly, sewing with decorative pattern stitches, applique, including fused, reverse, padded, transparent, shadow, and embellishing appliques, cutwork, fagoting, hemstitching, pintucks, french heirloom sewing by machine, battenberg lace, and free-motion stitching including thread painting and monograms. The book also covers specialty threads, feet, needles, stabilizers, and adjusting tension. Although there are plenty of books that cover each one of these techniques in depth, this is a great resource for beginners in embellishment to show a variety of possibilities. As with all Singer books, step-by-step color photos with numbered instructions.