Best Books

If there’s a sewing book out there, believe me, I own it. Some have helpful fitting tips and others have beautiful patterns, but these are the three I keep coming back to.

Fit for Real People

This is the bible for flat pattern adjustments. Period. They have a new version called The Palmer Pletch Complete Guide to Fitting, which is supposed to be fantastic, but I’m sticking to the original – cheesy 90s photos and all!

Gertie’s New Book for Better Sewing

The patterns in this book aren’t quite my style (although I think I’ll try out the Shirtwaist Dress at some point), but Gertie’s tips and tricks for elevating your techniques are clearly explained and well illustrated.

Gertie Sews Jiffy Dresses

Like all of Gertie’s other books, her newest has a great introductory section on fabrics, fitting and techniques, but this is the one I keep coming back to for the patterns. All of the patterns are suitable for beginners and are great for a modern vintage look.