Sew Pretty for Little Girls
by Alice Caroline · Published by David & Charles
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Sample Projects
Meet the Author
Hey there, can you introduce yourself?
Hi! I'm a Liberty obsessed fabric-aholic! I enjoy designing patterns and kits in Liberty fabric for my company Alice Caroline.
Tell us a bit about the book?
There are pretty projects for beginners as well as well as more challenging projects. The book is full of colourful Liberty prints which I hope will provide colour and print use inspiration for sewers. There is a variety of projects from cushions, a quilt, purse to a doll and accessories: something for everyone! The items are all made using Liberty fabrics but any prints can be used.
What was the inspiration behind it?
My editor approached me when I was exhibiting at a knitting and stitching show and asked if I would be interested in writing a book. We decided on the theme: that it would be based around a little girls bedroom. All of the projects are things that I would have liked as a child or that I would like to make for my daughter. I wanted everything to be pretty but also practical!
Which is your favourite project?
Ooh that's a tricky one! I love the Orla pencil case - patchwork version - as it's a great way to use tiny bits of fabric from your stash!
What is your craft space like?
I have a big (ubiquitous Scandinavian shop) bookshelf full of magazines and books, jars of buttons, ribbons and shells that I've collected on my travels. I'm a bit of a hoarder and look for inspiration everywhere I go! I also have a big pin board covered with photos, magazine tear sheets and packaging.
Have you always been creative?
Yes I’ve always loved making things, particularly collage when I was younger. I've dabbled in many a craft over the years. I enjoy drawing and painting too although I don't manage to find the time for it these days!
When did you first start crafting?
My mum taught me to sew as a child. I think we started with making tiny patchwork bags and moved on to sleeping bags for teddies! I remember being particularly proud of an appliqué bunny bag!
Who are your crafty heroes?
I love Japanese sewing books and magazines for their intricate designs and such clear illustrations that it's often possible (with a little but of sewing knowledge) to follow the instructions without reading a word of Japanese.
Where do you find inspiration?
Everywhere! I'm I just found a stash of my grandma's vintage quilting books and magazines-so retro. I used to be a magazine addict but now Pinterest has taken over! I am also inspired by all things Japanese.
What's next for you?
Little Lady Liberty is being translated into French in June, which is exciting! An appearance on Create and Craft TV later thus year, which will be a whole new experience for me! Alice Caroline is moving to larger premises in Soon and we are now selling the gorgeous Liberty Interiors fabric range!
Publisher's Description
Make little girls' dreams come true with the prettiest sewing projects ever imagined!
Using classic florals, rainbow hues and delicate prints, super-talented designer Alice Caroline shows you how create this stunning collection of over 20 easy sewing patterns to bring joy and color to any little girl's world.
Detailed step-by-step colored instructions accompany each of the projects--so why not make your little girl a quilt to snuggle up in, a skirt or dress to twirl and whirl in, sumptuous pillows to play-fight with, a bag or a purse to carry her treasures in, a topsy turvy doll to become best friends with, or just pretty up every part of her bedroom with lampshades, curtains, cushions and much more!
Alice uses simple sewing techniques including English paper piecing, easy quilting methods, simple garment making with a selfdrafted pattern and basic bag making.
The projects featured in the book are made using world renowned Liberty Art fabrics, these quintessentially English prints offer a distinct look and feel, but of course, you can use any pretty fabrics of your choosing!
