On 2010-02-28 V. Santos, wrote: This book was required for a basic sewing class, and after buying the newest edition, I stumbled upon a 1978 version in the school library--which is FAR SUPERIOR!! Here´s why:
LAYOUT--The graphics of the instructions are virtually the same, but the old version has a very simple layout, with instructions beneath each photo. The current version focuses on making the page look cool, which detracts considerably in being able to view the instructions clearly.
CONTENT--The current version has approximately 350 pages, while the older version has approximately 550!!!! For instance, in the old book for TOOLS, there´s dedicated sections for various types of tools (scissors, needles, pressing equipment) and their uses. In the new one, all of the tools are laid together (no dedicated sections), which mostly pictures rather than information. Instead of about 7 pages it is now 2 pages. The elimination of a lot of information continues THROUGHOUT THE WHOLE BOOK!!
PROJECTS--In the current version, projects are interspersed throughout the book, assuming you will be making these projects as you go along. WRONG! At least for me, I´m not going to make the specific shirt or pants they provide instructions to. The old version has all the projects listed together at the end of the book, and there´s at least double the amount of projects than the current book, most of which are still very modern even though it was written in the 70s! One cool project shows you how to make YOUR OWN PATTERN for a robe!
BOTTOM LINE--This version is like an early rough draft of the older/original edition. The amount of information and projects has been cut by about half, and the book focuses on appearance (in its layout and content) rather than simplicity for usage. BUY AN OLDER EDITION--the current one seriously sucks!! I would honestly pay an extra $20 for the 1978 version! Also, I already have basic sewing skills, but I think if I were new to sewing, the current version would be completely useless in that it´s not really a beginner´s book, more of a reference book.
**Unfortunately the loss of information is due to the dwindling number of ´traditional´ sewers, most people now want an ´easy how-to´ with fast projects...most sewing books don´t teach skills anymore, which makes me sad. This book´s current edition reflects that trend.. And summed up by saying Buy a PREVIOUS edition!!. Currently New Complete Guide to Sewing (Readers Digest) has an overall rating of 8 over 10.
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Readers Digest claimed The best-selling comprehensive, practical, and inspiring sewing reference, now fully revised and updated. Clear, simple instructions by sewing experts, and thousands of illustrations and diagrams show each stage of the sewing process. This guide is the standard stitch-and-seam reference book for both beginner and seasoned sewers.
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