Natalie Chanin

As makers, we tend to learn different stitches over time without thinking much about how they relate to one another. But when Natalie Chanin and her Alabama Chanin and The School of Making teams began to look at needlework closely, they realized all stitches are based on geometric grid systems--and by using grids as guides, they could make learning stitches, even seemingly elaborate ones, as easy as child's play. In The Geometry of Hand-Sewing Chanin...

Take a look at what Natalie calls the "physics of sewing" to make your skirt both strong and beautiful. After that, tackle the basic running stitch as you practice on different fabric swatches.

Meet Natalie and get a refresher on the methods and materials you'll need to get started, including fabrics, threads and beads. Then she guides you through making color swatches, choosing colorways and stenciling or inking fabrics to create patterns.

Meet fashion pioneer Natalie Chanin and begin as she gives a brief overview of her sustainable, organic approach to sewing. Then she helps you choose the color, fabric and design for your project: a universally flattering swing skirt.

After you finish your swing skirt, see how to customize it with patch pockets or piping. Finally, Natalie shares examples of some more advanced embellishment techniques, such as bead embroidery. Your journey to a slow fashion wardrobe is just beginning!

Once the panels are completely embellished, it's time to start constructing your skirt! See how to join the skirt panels with strong hand-stitched seams and a quarter-inch seam allowance.

Start embellishing your skirt by stenciling a design on the top-layer pieces. Find out how to make a stencil using the included artwork, then apply the design by inking it with a permanent marker, stenciling with fabric paint and a sponge or brush, or stenciling with an airbrush.

Beads and sequins add sparkle, texture and dimension to garments. Discover Natalie's simple methods to add seed, chop and bugle beads to your stitching. After that, see how easy it is to add sequins and vary the look with partial or armor beading.

In this follow-up to the celebrated "Alabama Stitch Book" Natalie Chanin takes her fans on another compelling journey of creativity, technique, and inspirition, this time sharing many more of her beautiful stenciling, stitching, and beading methods, a collection of over 20 projects, including her award-winning dresses and skirts, plus recipes from Southern food expert Angie Mosier. --publisher.

Guide to sewing and embellishing basic wardrobe pieces including mid-length skirts, fitted dresses, and fitted tops.