If you don't already have an overlocker, this book makes it pretty clear early on that you probably should, since it will make everything a heap easier and neater. I don't so I haven't tried my hand at stretch sewing yet. I'm not in love with the illustration style, which makes it harder to imagine how i would make these patterns in styles and fabrics that appeal to me. Nevertheless, I think it's a very solid introduction and... I'm looking into an overlocker!

This one of the better books on the market that attempts to take the terror out of stretch sewing. It is methodical and easy to understand and eventally the reader will come to appreciate that sewing stretch fabrics is bloody easy and by doing it you will not only amaze and impress your friends but you will be able to finally give up the therapy sessions for poor self esteem and spend the spare cash on imported Italian stretch knit fabrics. YAY!

I haven't tried any of the patterns yet, but am looking forward to using this book to help me sew up some easy summer basics. The author, Wendy Mullen, is a well-known New York designer known for styles with a Mod-feel, and she has a line in Simplicity sewing patterns too.

The text is easy to follow and seems obviously aimed at the sewer who is a little more than a beginner but has yet to sew in stretch fabrics. Mullen advises on how to choose and sew stretch fabrics, and accommodates both those who have access to an overlocker (or serger) and those who just have a plain ole' sewing machine.

The patterns that come with the book cover a range of t-shirt styles (raglan vs set-in sleeve, cap vs long sleeve, crew vs v-neck etc) and gives clear instructions on how to alter the patterns to make variations. The styles are youthful, and the dresses especially appeal more to the under-25s.

Like her earlier book, Sew U, this book is full of ideas and inspiration.

This book is more aimed at intermediate and advanced sewers. The idea of hoodies and dresses and such is so appealing but unfortunely yoou have got to have some experience behind you in order to even attempt these articles or you will be setting yourself up for disaster. That said, if you know what your doing then you will appreciate the concepts and style and the idea of incorparating your own individualism into the items. The patterns being with the book are also appreciated in saving you $$$.

Following up on the success of her first sewing book (Sew U - The Built By Wendy Guide to Making Your Own Wardrobe), Wendy Mullin returns with Sew U - Home Stretch. With sewing gradually return to the forefront of 'cool' crafts, Mullin once again inspires us to hone our skills and produce some new creations with soft knit fabric.

This hardcover, spiral bound edition is imminently sensible for laying flat while you work with your designs and follow the instructions. Like her first book, this includes full and easy to follow instructions together with patterns for creating your own t-shirts, dresses and hoodies. She also includes tips for how to alter the clothes you already own - Bonus!!

Once again Mullin calls on the artistic talents of Beci Orpin to provide the wonderful illustrations throughout, and up the indie-cool ante. This is great for those who want to build on the skills they learnt in Mullin's first book, but beginners may want to get some practice under their belts before tackling some of these projects.