The Great British Sewing Bee: Fashion with Fabric

For burgeoning dressmakers the vast array of fabrics is what both entices the would-be sewer to dress handmade, but it is also what intimidates the first-time sewist when stepping into the haberdashery. Reflecting the episode themes of the third series of The Great British Sewing Bee, each chapter focuses on a type of fabric and demystifies its properties, suitability and uses as well as providing all the instructions and pattern pieces needed to make a collection of universally appealing garments from that fabric type.

Many of the 30 garments in the book appear on screen, either as technical challenges faced by the contestants and designed by Claire-Louise Hardie or as projects devised and made by the contestants. The chapter on Cottons explains the properties of this common fabric and gives a variety of designs including a sleeveless shell top, capri trousers, summer dress and beach shorts. This is followed by chapters on wool and natural fibres, knits and stretch fabrics and then luxury fabrics, including lace and sheers.

With womenswear sizes ranging from 8 to 20 and menswear sizes ranging from XS to XL, as well as the core garment instructions, this book includes all the information you need to get started with your sewing machine and understand both your equipment and the pattern pieces.

Claire-Louise's ultimate guide to fitting your own clothes and expert sewing tips from judges May Martin and Patrick Grant will ensure a perfect fit and stunning results.