Books like Complete Idiot's Guide to Sewing by Lydia Wills

Create custom lingerie from scratch using a simple sewing machine and affordable fabrics—knickers, bras, camisoles, and more—guided by 25 beginner-friendly projects and patterns.

A beginner’s primer on sewing, teaching basic techniques through simple projects and a handy DVD-ROM.

A practical guide to machine sewing, serging, and pressing that blends step‑by‑step instructions, machine settings, and expert tips to help readers achieve professional‑quality tailoring and garment finishing on any sewing machine.

Store-bought soft furnishings can be expensive and the choice is often limited but with so many gorgeous designer fabrics on sale, there's never been a better time to make your own. Sewing in No Time sets out 50 simple step-by-step projects using nothing more than the most basic of sewing skills. Cosy and colourful scatter cushions, stylish curtains and blinds, elegant table linen, handy storage bags and baskets, a comfy cushion for a garden bench and even a funky play tent for the kids to run riot in: these are just a few of the ideas that Emma Hardy has designed using readily available fabrics and trims. Illustrated throughout using specially commissioned photographs and easy-to-follow step-by-step diagrams, Sewing in No Time is the perfect book for people who are big on ideas but short of time. Whether your home is a traditional country cottage or a modern warehouse-style apartment, you're sure to find plenty of ideas to inspire you.