Book Review: Simple Modern Sewing

I'm really excited about Simple Modern Sewing by Shofu To Seikatsu Sha. These are patterns that speak to me. They are simple constructions with Japanese elegance and comfort that highlight textiles. The first blouse is the simplest item in the book. The "peasant blouse" of my youth. I used a light linen for thisand it worked out great. I added the small tab of colorful fabric at the back center of the blouse to add a bit of fun.

Big Caveat: This is a translation of a Japanese sewing book. I had to resize the pattern to get it to fit. A friend advised making it in muslin first. Good advice. The sizes are the Japanese S, M and L. So if you are usually an American Large, you will need to trace the pattern first and then use a method such as this one from Burda to resize. I resize once and then again to add more ease so that I can wear this over a warmer shirt in winter. 

It is worth it for me. I can see myself wearing nothing but these clothes in fabrics from cottons and linen to wool and silk and will go through and resize everything. I think the above in a gauzy cotton would be perfect for my daughter's wedding events. There are some more pictures here of some of the pages. This review here has a good shot at what the pattern pages look like. Warning: they are STACKED and a bit confusing. The author advises using a highlighter to trace over the pattern on the pattern page and that is good counsel.

 

 

 

 

I can see the two dresses on the left in lightweight denim and, oh yes! an apricot silk. I think I just foundmy "mother of the bride" dress, perhaps with 3/4 sleeves? 

 

Please note that this book is aimed at beginners and an initial look through would convince a beginner to purchase. I haven't made many garments in my life but used my general, solid knowledge of sewing and construction.

 

 

 

 

This pattern, for instance is definitely trickier. I'll work my way up to it.

Next up: the 2a blouse in flannel. It took me about 20 minutes to layout and cut last night and I'll bet 2 hours will be enough to put it together. The pre-work is worth it.

 

Comments

[Connie Rose]

Remember that book from the late 60s-early 70s, about making your own clothes? Can't recall the name. Anyhow, this reminds me of that. Simple, easy, effective.

[Diana Trout]

Nope. But if you think of the name of that book, let me know. Thanks, Connie!

[Cynthia]

Ha ha, Diana, that peasant blouse pattern reminds me of that cotton housedress you bought in Italy, just a little shorter! ;) Love the fabric for the 2a blouse, hopefully you will post some photos of yourself wearing your new creations...or perhaps a video of you modelling them?

[Diana Trout]

Oh yes! a faux runway! COOL! Yea, I guess Im a peasant at heart. xo and Happy New Year

[Kathy]

Was it the "Illustrated, Hassle Free, Make Your Own Clothes Book"? I've got that one. It's not as good as I remembered.

[Diana Trout]

Thanks, Kathy. I just took a look at that on Amazon. It reminds me of my youth. At $2, it seems like I should purchase if only for nostalgia :)