Review
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This is a great little book containing some lovely
projects. I am a bit of a novice, but the step-by-step
instructions look easy to follow so I'm sure even I will be able
to turn out some neatly finished bags and purses. I'm looking
forward to having a go - I just need to brush up on my sewing
machine skills and I'll be away! -- Tess Stevenson Another lovely
book by Debbie Shore - it is written in an easy to follow style
with simple steps and lots of photos. Lots of useful hints and
tips as well as reminders. A good choice and variety of bags and
matching purses. There are also smart links to videos for those
that use them. -- Christy Chapman Excellent for all sewing
ability levels. Lovely book, clear, easy to follow instructions &
some unusual designs. A good buy to add to my Debbie Shore book
collection. -- Jane Symonds Just received this book over the
weekend. I have sat engrossed for a couple of hours this
afternoon and can stlll not decide on which of the fantastic
projects to try first. So glad it is July as it gives me plenty
of time to make projects for Christmas presents. Another 5 star
book from Debbie. -- Lesley Wheelwright Make twelve bags and
twelve matching purses using only half yards of fabric. All you
need is this a for the outside of the item plus lining,
decorations, notions and hardware. You don't even need a lot of
sewing experience with the easy to read instructions with plenty
of staged photographs, although a good knowledge of the basics is
a must. There is a page of tips for the "complete beginner" but
personally I would rate this for improver level as there is a
fair a to master. One of the features is that most of the
projects feature bag hardware in the shape of buckles, frames,
chains, D-rings and carabiners. This gives the bags a
professional finish and instructions are given on how to attach
them. At the front there is a list of what you need to embark on
making bags plus several pages of basic techniques including
stitches, making straps and your own bias binding, adding pockets
and putting in zips. There are no patterns in this book apart
from a page of templates; each project has a cutting list of the
simple shapes you require, plus a list of everything you need and
a finished size. You can expect plenty of Search Press' trademark
photographic stages for a pretty foolproof project, and a good
range of different bag and purse styles. Choose from casual tote
bags, shoulder bags, formal handbags and bags to take to work as
well as various purses and wallets to match. My favorite feature
of the book is the emphasis on using up what you have; it really
shows how to do a lot with a little. From an ingenious use of an
old cork to a brilliant way of using up lots of spare threads
there is a way of using the smallest scraps. I love the Charles
Rennie Mackintosh style rose made from "iris folding" strips of
fabric - very pretty and effective. I was also impressed with the
range of fabrics used, not only quilting cottons but leather,
felt, tweed and all-over lace. This is the sort of book that you
can dip into again and again for bags every time you have a new
outfit. My current favorite from this excellent series. -- Rachel
A Hyde * myshelf.com * This is TV presenter Debbie's latest book
in the excellent `Half-Yard' series and is packed with gorgeous
must-have bags and purses that will be used again and again. Be
it a casual tote for travel, a practical carrier for the working
day or a smart and stylish bag for that special occasion, Debbie
has it covered, and as always, her instructions are clear and
detailed. With the addition of QR codes for bonus technique
videos, the designs are suitable for all abilities. Those with
more sewing experience can, however, personalize their bags with
additional pockets, zips and applique. A fabulous book - the most
difficult thing is deciding which bag to make first! --
Embroiderers Guild * Embroiderers Guild * I LOVE THIS BOOK!!! I
want to make everything that is in it and I want to make them all
again for everyone I know. A bag for every occasion complete with
matching purse are beautifully showcased with stunning glossy
photographs, I am in love with them all. Debbie Shore has outdone
herself with this fabulous book, and if you love sewing then you
will not be disappointed. Full instructions and a few full sized
templates are given. The project order is easy to follow and what
I love with Shore's books, is that even beginners can accomplish
a usable and beautiful item. What you need, sizes and 'how to' is
in simple language and include some helpful hints and tips for
that professional look and finish. With no more than half a yard
of fabric, totes, clutches, and more can be made from cotton,
felt and faux leather. I adored the Twisted Thread Bag, and even
though it looks quite difficult, the ease of the demonstration
means that I will have no bother achieving a fabulous result with
a stunning effect. In this book, there is a QR Code. this can be
scanned with your phone and takes you to videos, tutorials and
helpful advice. This is a genius idea and is why I love Ms Shore,
she thinks about everything and everyone. Highly recommended and
quite superb. -- Postcard Reviews * Tracy Shephard * Debbie's
books are always hugely popular and this delightful book is no
exception. Beautifully illustrated with clear instructions and
cleverly only requiring half a yard of fabric this book is an
absolute delight and perfect for creating beautiful bags and
purses for the summer. * Hot Brands Cool Places * I was super
excited to receive a copy of a new book in the 'Half Yard' series
by @debbieshore for @searchpress (number 7 now!! Woweee!!) I
started flicking through the projects (from back to front) and,
as a novice to bag making, was very daunted by the projects! What
I should have done (as any normal person would do) is start at
the beginning as Debbie takes you through the different hardwares
(handles/frames/fastenings) used in the book as well as
instructions for sewing piping, making straps, fitting
clasps/twist fastenings, adding pockets, and zipped pockets!
Then, once Debbie has covered these top tips/techniques, the
world is your oyster! The book has 24 projects (12 bags & 12
matching purses) for you to make! Each project has beautiful
photos and clear instructions! Most of the projects are very
traditional and not necessarily for the modern sewist....but you
can easily change the fabrics and make it your own! What I REALLY
like about this book is that there are 8 associated QR-coded
videos so, using your phone, you can scan the code from the book
to see the corresponding video guidance (including piping,
attaching a zip, attaching a purse frame and bias binding)! This
is a fantastic way of combining the traditional craft of sewing
with the modern world of digital media! -- Naomi Clarke *
@naomialicec *
About the Author
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Debbie Shore started her career as a children's
television presenter and since then has appeared regularly on
television both as an actress and selling products on a shopping
channel. Debbie has also hosted live fashion shows with a major
fashion store, produces her own range of instructional DVDs and
writes for several popular sewing magazines. She is now a
bestselling author and has written 12 books for Search Press,
with several more underway. Debbie was voted Sewing Designer of
the Year in the Immediate Media British Craft Awards 2017.