Designer Techniques: Couture Tips for Home Sewing

Let Kenneth King, host of the PBS "Sewing Today" show, clothing designer, and "haberdasher to the stars", show you how to make the kind of fashion designs he's created for music videos, TV commercials, and awards ceremonies. His helpful hints will give you the confidence to make clothes that reveal a dramatic flair -- designs you might think are much too difficult. But with King's communication skills, which have inspired millions who watch him on TV, you'll quickly master the essentials of fashion fabrics. Follow his simple instructions to sew designer-edge finishes, piping, pockets, and tailored shoulders, along with designer embellishments like knife-pleated edges and pleated truffles, as well as finishing touches such as fringes, tassels, and beaded mesh. Put them all together to sew the jackets, vests, and pants of your dreams, all displayed in beautiful full-color photographs of the finished projects, along with careful drawings and clear close-ups. Add matching accessories like handbags, hard bags, and gussets. There are even tips on how to apply the instructions about embellishments and finishing touches to your home decor, to make magnificent window treatments, table coverings, and even upholstery.