There's a new sewing reference book from Leisure Arts that I am especially attached to. Donna Kooler's Encyclopedia of Sewing covers everything from the history of sewing to the basics and then on to more advanced techniques.

As part of the team that worked on this book (it takes a village...), I am biased but I think that it has some great information for almost every stitcher from beginning to advanced. Whether you are looking for information about specific sewing tools, garment constructions steps, new embellishement techniques, or selecting a sewing machine, you'll find what you need here. The twelve projects are varied and fun -- you'll want to try them all. Take a look and see for yourself -- I hope you find it interesting and useful!

Let It Rain Slicker

Garden Pary Lap Quilt

Gypsy Shrug

Bugs in the Garden Book

1. The Ruffler Attachment #86, my absolute favorite Bernina foot! The perfect stitch quality of the Bernina sewing machine means that all the ruffles made with this attachment will be perfect, too! I use this foot for adding all kinds of ribbon and trims to garments and crafts - from heavy grosgrain ribbon to delicate strips of tulle.

Not only did I attach the tulle trim to the edge of this apron with the Ruffler Attachment, I also used it to gather the body of the apron to the band.

2. The Edgestitching Foot #10/10C is a lifesaver when I am finishing garments with edge stitching - even when stitching next to a seam. The metal guide helps to keep my fabric feeding through the machine nice and straight, and can even guide you when stitching in the ditch.

I used the #10 Edgestitching presser foot to stitch on the edge of this bow trim - nice and straight!

3. The Bernina Stitch Regulator foot. I've onlyl just begun to play with the BSR, as I am quilting my very first quilt ever. I don't know what I'd do without it, the BSR keeps all my stitches even as I move the fabric around, which is really helpful for a beginner. And it's not just for quilting, look here to see other project ideas for your BSR!