Sweetly Stitched Handmades: 18 Projects to Sew for You and Your Loved Ones Paperback – April 1, 2015

I wasn't sure whether to buy this book because someone mentioned most of the projects are for babies so I went to the author's blog and discovered that there was a "sew along" for the book when it was launched with photos of all the projects inside the book on instagram. After seeing those, I definitely thought I would like to have a copy. This is basically a riff off of Japanese zakka style sewing (linen paired with patchwork using "kawaii" fabrics with hand embroidered elements), you can definitely see the influence was heavily taken from Japanese patchwork style BUT every single project in the book was VERY UNIQUE in it's design (ie. a ruffle collar baby bib, a jam jar pin cushion, a unique twist on a dresdan plate quilt block etc.), like nothing I've ever seen before and Amy is truly an excellent sewist and really knows how to mix and match little patches of fussy cut prints with linen. There are so many "unique" projects in this book, and all made from a stash of "curated" fabric finds that are signature "Amy Sinibaldi." I'm sure many of the fabrics used in the projects were sourced from Japan (lots of printed linens) and there is a gorgeous pillow at the back of the book which looks like it was made out of Liberty of London prints (very expensive). With all the use of "natural linen" I almost felt discouraged because while I love the look I thought it would be cost prohibitive to buy but she does list Joann's fabrics at the back of the book as a supplier for linen fabric. Finally, I wouldn't say that the projects were only for babies or small children. Hey, I would love to have a crayon caddy for storing things on my des! But seriously, all of the items could be made for anyone of any age. The only items that were truly geared for babies were the baby bib and the baby rattle. I think for Amy, sewing is about the fabric and while she does copy heavily from Japanese zakka sewing style, her designs are all her own and really stand out as very unique and very well made. I do wish there were step by step photos on making the projects. There were very few diagrams, mostly written instructions and the "supply list" included all the cutting instructions as well which made it tedious to follow. It would have been nice if the supply list and the cutting instructions were separated as they normally are in craft magazines. I'm sure this was related to cost constraints imposed by the publisher. Anyways, great job Amy and keep up the great work! (I believe she has a fabric collection that she designed for Art Gallery fabrics that is due to be released in the Fall of 2015). Her blog is nana company if you want to check it more of Amy's work.

I love Amy's blog, which was the reason I bought this. I've only worked on one project so far, not because the others aren't nice, but because after I finished my first project - stacked hexagon mug rug, I've gotten so many requests from friends and family to make the same thing for them as well. While I did not have problems following the directions and completing the project, it did require knowledge of some of the techniques involved, like appliqueing the hexagons to the coaster - so I kind of improvised and figured out my own way of attaching things myself, or you can google or youtube. My point being if you're not exposed to a lot of different sewing techniques, you may need outside help. And like other reviewers of this book, more photos illustrating the techniques would have been a huge help. Other than that, I love her style in color theme and selection and the various projects she showcases, not only in this book, but her blog as well. I'm a fan!

Amy's natural eye to beautiful fabric and placing them together does not disappoint. The beautiful pictures, her fabric taste, and beautiful projects made this book eye candy. However, from her blog that shows how to steps, I also expected her book to have more detailed pictures on how to's. The overuse of pictures of the same product was redundant and could had been more effectively used to have those how to pictures. There are certain points, like the rattle, that I am a bit confused on and would had loved more details. I am more of a visual person than a written direction oriented person and her tutorials with more pictures suited my needs perfectly, this did not. That is not to say this book in not appealing, it's just harder to me as a visual learner. With that being side, I will give the projects all my might and look forward to making them, starting with the ruffled bib.

I'm enjoying this book tremendously. I have made two of the projects so far, the eyeglasses case and the Mug Rug. They are coming out great! Amy's style is so inspiring to me! I have no problems following the directions, although I am an experienced stitcher. I do notice that there are a few errors and typos here and there but I can work around them with no issues. My copy was printed with the last few pattern pages upside down, as well, but that doesn't bother me much! Overall, I love the book and would absolutely buy it again and would highly recommend it to anyone who loves to sew, embroider or quilt. The projects are lovely, the photos are beautiful and it's a good starting point to put your own spin on the projects!

I love this book and Amy's designs, but I sure wish the publisher had included "how-to" photos in it. There really aren't any and there's several instances in the book where I think, "why didn't they show a photo of how to do this?". They certainly could have - sometimes they have multiple photos of just about the same thing, when they could have stuck in a photo to actually help you! Regardless, I love the patterns. They sure are cute.

I really happy when you said in your blog that you write a book!! I love seeing your design, your photograph, your family. They are amazing!! I was rushed to amazon when I read that your book is open for sale. I bought this for my sister who's into sewing these days.I believe she'll love it just like me.Good luck to you and can't wait for another book from you!

Amy inspired me!!!! From what I learned in fashion schools & working in the industry I thought I seen it all but Amy prove me wrong! Her creativity is intoxicating! I am definitely going to buy few more books to give as gifts. She also have an amazing blog. I learned alot from her. She sparks my sewing again. Thank you Amy!!

Incredibly worthwhile. I find this book to be full of value. I'm an experience dressmaker and venturing into quilting more. I only wish there were more illustrations instead of just hand written instructions. However, the hand written instructions are incredibly precise and easy to understand.

I love the work of Amy Sinibaldi, but I have to say that I was a bit underwhelmed by this book but had to have it none the less. I think it's more a matter of personal taste in the sense that I don't really like most of the items that are included in the book. I really wanted to support her first book though so I'm glad i bought it and I will be trying the quilted items soon.

What can I say about Amy's book apart from beautiful.I have been following Amy's blog for a few years now and have always admired her work so knew I had to have this book.I have not been disappointed, beautiful projects to make and easy to follow instructions.If nothing else her book is a delight just to look through :)

Lovely gifts to make and lots to keep for yourself. I love just browsing as much as I have enjoyed completing some of the projects. Some skill needed for some but very easy to follow. Well worth buying

One of the nicest sewing books I have bought in ages. The projects are all great and I can see myself making everything. Beautifully photographed to inspire.

Really recommend this book