Its a Wrap: Sewing Fabric Purses, Baskets, and Bowls

I learned to make these baskets from the internet. When I bought the book, I hoped to improve my skills. Unfortunately, the book is too little too late. I paid for a book that didnt teach me anything new.

Bought this book because I had borrowed my friends for far too long. Great book to get you started with this type of craft. I disagree with this author on one issue. When cutting the fabric it should be cut on the bias (less chance of fraying).

Gave me good instructions. Had fun with my projects.

Great diagrams and instructions.

This is the first time Ive reviewed a craft book, though I have a history of buying many and never really using them. I had to write to add my recommendation for this book to those others have written. The directions in this book are so clear and the project pictures so inspirational that I immediately went to work to make my first bowl. That was followed in the same day by another. I had a full box of fabric I considered too ugly to use for any quilts, but I dug into it and found it had new life as bowl material. In fact, the ugliest fabric I used looked fantastic when cut into strips and wrapped around the clothesline into the bowls coils. (Note: finding the clothesline in a local store is the hardest part of making these bowls. Be sure to do some comparison shopping before purchasing your clothesline. I found mine at Wal-Mart for less than a quarter of the price it was at the hardware store). You do not need a fancy sewing machine to make these bowls. Any machine that does a zig-zag stitch will work. I decided to use my Berninas walking foot after some experimentation, but it certainly isnt necessary to be successful. I am already thinking about my next bowls and the great gifts they will make for birthdays and Christmas. The possibilities for embellishment are endless. I am already imagining how I can twist funky yarns or metallic floss around with the fabric to create a whole new surface texture. Also, dont feel like you are limited to using 100 percent cotton on these bowls. On my second bowl I used a metallic-looking lame and some thin velvet strips and they were gorgeous. I plan to do some beading to really make this bowl zing. You are only limited by your imagination in making these bowls your own individual creations. I dont consider myself an artist. I usually need clear instructions to get a project going. But on these bowls I really felt like I created something special right from the get-go. I recommend this book and the bowls very highly.

I would like to have seen more purses/bags in this book, but purchased it for the technique. The book covers the process very well. I will keep this book. It could also be a way to do an artful wall hanging.

I had a bunch of long strips of vintage fabrics for rugmaking. I was looking for more ideas on using my stash. Lots of pictures. I did kindle first but the actual book is very worth it.

I really like this book. It is easy to follow and I have begun to make my first bowl!

Book has some amazing projects involving wrapping fabric strips around cotton clothes line. I havent tried anything yet, but I have all of the materials listed to make a bowl.

This book has been very useful as a fun guide to several projects. I received it, in great condition and it arrived without delay. Many thanks.