Sewing is an age-old hobby, and for good reason: it's practical, it's a great way to express your creativity, and it's an excellent distraction from your smartphone. Whether you've never so much as picked up a needle and thread or you're a veteran sewer looking to challenge yourself, we're betting one of the below sewing books is perfect for you. Each comes with photos, diagrams, and step-by-step instructions, making it easy to complete Pinterest-worthy projects.
For beginning sewers
Embroidered Pillowcase
Though this sewing book is aimed at kids, there's no reason adults can't use it too! A Kid's Guide to Sewing gives a comprehensive, easy to understand guide to everything you need to know to get started, including how to use different kinds of fabrics and use a sewing machine.
The book also includes simple beginner's sewing projects like this cute pillow case with a hand-embroidered design, and some more complex projects to try as your skills improve. “Some of the coolest projects we've seen.”—Kiki Magazine
For busy stitchers
Nine-Patch Pocket Pillow
As anyone who sews knows, it's easy to let all your fabric scraps, idea boards and various works-in-progress get out of control.
In Sew Organized for the Busy Girl, Heidi Staples offers tons of ideas for how to reorganize your sewing space and set yourself up to actually finish those sewing projects. Her book also includes 23 fun sewing projects to take on, including this adorably quilted pocket pillow.
For sewists who love to give gifts
Cuddle Bunny
Nothing beats a homemade gift, and that's the idea behind Simple Sewn Gifts, a collection of 25 east-to-follow patterns perfect for gifting. We think this stuffed bunny is especially adorable, but there are plenty of grown-up gift ideas, too, including napkins, totes, gift bags, aprons, and much more.
For advanced needleworkers
Music Pillow
If you're looking to go beyond simple sewing projects and test your skills, Making Cushions and Pillows is for you. Constructing a pillow is simple; it's the decorations that impress in the collection of 60 designs using all sorts of techniques, including crochet, knitted intarsia motifs, cross stitch and embroidery. This sewing book also includes links to printable patterns, making it even easier to follow.
For business-savvy sewers
Craft Apron
If your sewing skills are good enough to be sold, be it on a site like Etsy or at local markets, then you need to get your own copy of Sewing to Sell. Written by a woman who made the leap from hobby to home business herself, this complete guide includes everything you need to know to get started, from creating a product line to photographing your work to pricing and selling your creations. One of the best tips is to sell practical items that people can use, like this fashionable and functional craft apron.
Featured photo: Clem Onojeghuo / Unsplash
