For those familiar with creative author, artist and designer, Alice Chadwick’s books - downtownDIY Knitting and downtownDIY Crochet – look now for trendy and unique projects for sewers - downtownDIY Sewing (2007) from Watson-Guptill Publications. Don’t let the title of this book lead you to think it is only for metropolitan types although the London-based author applies a decidedly boho/ retro- Soho flavor to the included fourteen sewing projects.

With enough projects to cover an entire casual wardrobe: a pencil skirt (make in denim or bold geometric print for a fashion-forward statement, however the mitered back hem at the back slit and zipper closure can be somewhat challenging to sew well) and full circle skirt (take care when adding the gathered flounce); a tunic dress (to wear with leggings or jeans) and T-shirt minidress (for the bold or young-at heart). For summer an off-the-shoulder knit top (leave off the sleeve hem bands and bottom band, finish with a serged or machine stitched edge for a super-easy variation) and summer shirt that will work well with any skirt or slacks. The pj bottoms (pair with a T-shirt for easy summer nighties or around-the-house lounge-wear) are well worth making several pairs out of light-weight cotton prints.

The super easy tote bag, mp3 player sleeve, and poly stuffed fabric puppy dog make great quick-to-sew gifts to sew for anyone. The puppy can be made out of just about any kind of fabric – brushed cotton flannel for tots or colorful prints or chintz for tweens or teens (make a tote in a coordinating color and add the happy puppy to peek out the top for a delightful gift idea). The headband, fabric bows and necklace (choker style) too would make great quick-to-make gifts. The piped-edged circular bag with zipper closure is charming but with a degree of difficulty to make.

Three full-sized patterns (sizes US 6, 8, 10, and 12; UK 8, 10, 12, and 14) are included: pencil skirt, summer shirt, and tunic dress. Other small-scale patterns for accessories can be enlarged on a copier or simple line dimensions are given to draw/pin right on the fabric are included as well.

There are guides to basic sewing techniques, tools, fabric, thread, sizing and more for those new to sewing. More seasoned sewers will find the accompanying drawings a quick guide to how the project should come together. The only downside to this very appealing book is the non-spiral binding that will not allow the pages to lie flat when opened although adding a heavy re-positional paper clasp seems to do the trick.

Sew happy, sew well.

Editor Recommended Book