Let me start off by saying this book intimidates me. Being a beginning fabric crafter (that is used to hand sewing and not using a sewing machine) I'm used to in depth instructions both written and illustrated or photographed and this book lacks the step-by-step photography in the projects section. There is photography, more of the finished project or atmospheric variety and there are some illustrations and close-up in process shots but not for every step, which I still feel like I need.

Being a beginner I think the most useful section to me is the glossary and basic techniques section at the beginning. It shares everything from terminology, materials and basic stitches. I think this is the section I will refer the most.

I like how the project section is alphabetical (probably why they call it an encyclopedia) and shows multiple projects and variations under each category (blankets, pillows, dolls).

I'm hoping this is a book I can grow into with time as my confidence in fabric crafts grows and I become more familiar with the process. I would not recommend this to a beginner that has barely touched a sewing machine, but I do think it makes an good overall reference that us beginners can grow into with time. ( )

“The aim of all of us at Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia is to inspire and to teach.”

That aim has been fully realized in this Encyclopedia of Sewing and Fabric Crafts (which, to be clear, includes sewing-crafts and fabric-crafts, not sewing in general). The teaching focuses mostly on beginning crafters -- step-by-step instructions, easy techniques, even some no-sew projects (e.g. coasters, storage boxes) and some that begin with commercially available products (e.g. totes, bibs, bed/bath/table linens). And for experienced crafters -- the book is pure inspiration.

Beautifully illustrated throughout, it opens with primers on sewing, embroidery, appliqué, quilting, dye and stenciling. MSL’s trademark visual glossaries of fabrics (almost tactile!), threads, notions and supplies are throughout, and an index and listing of sources are included at the end. But the bulk of the book is its 250 pages of fabric projects, some of which are crafting standards, many of which include fresh options. (**Note: perhaps half of the projects require the crafter to print a pattern/template from PDFs on an accompanying CD (not included in my review copy); therefore, access to a computer with a CD drive, a printer, and the free, downloadable Adobe Acrobat software are required.)

I don’t recall an over-the-top, un-doable project in the lot; the only sections that even approach are upholstery and window shades, yet the instructions there also seem manageable. Every project is illustrated in finished form; many also feature illustrations alongside the step-by-step instructions. I challenge anyone -- beginner, experienced, even an "armchair" crafter -- to look through this book without taking on a project :)

(Review based on an advance reading copy provided by the publisher.) ( )