Elegant Techniques for Grown-up Sewers

I'm the first to admit that I can sometimes be a bit of a snob when it comes to knitting and sewing. In general I much prefer to work with natural fibers and I love discovering new, elegant, sophisticated techniques. Too many times I've picked up books on embellishment techniques and found them to be just fine for new sewers, young sewers, or just funky fun. But if I'm going to spend time on embellishments I want them to be lovely, unusual, distinctive, sophisticated. I'm not crazy about sewing all kinds of funky buttons on the front of a t-shirt or decorating with sparkly paint and appliques cut from quilting fabrics. Consequently I was very happy to discover Jane Conlon's Fine Embellishment Techniques. This is a book for sewers who want to create a work of beauty.

The book itself is lovely, a large art-book type book with beautiful photography and the projects used to illustrate the techniques described are just breath-taking. The vest at left is worked on silk dupioni and uses several techniques from the book. It is a garment any woman would enjoy having in her collection.


There are actually only five techniques described: beading, threadwork, trims, applique, bindings and piping. But each section is filled with detailed information on selecting materials, techniques and tips for using them, lots of photos and illustrations and plenty of inspiration.


I admit that I love fussing with a new garment and sometimes I view some of my creations -- especially kimono jackets -- as little works of art rather than something to just wear. So a book like this is exactly the sort of thing that can keep me happy for hours.

The photo above shows a flower applique  constructed of beads, metallic thread and free-motion machine embroidery.

I love the subtle simplicity of some of the techniques like those shown on the collar and placket above that combines simple running stitches and tiny beads to add a delicate but beautiful finish to a simple blouse.

So, if you are looking for a fun, quick embellishment that can be completed in an afternoon, this might not be the book for you, but for sewers who want to spend time creating something stunning and sophisticated, this book has much to offer.

Thanks for reading.