It's hip (think Project Runway), it's hot (with a potential audience of 45 million), and it's coming from exactly the right publisher (remember Stitch 'N Bitch and Generation T). Introducing S.E.W, the beginning sewer's bible. A reinvention of the postwar sewing how-to, here is a hold-your-hand guide that marries attitude and instruction, that speaks the language of today's crafters while teaching them everything they need to know from winding a bobbin to sewing a dart to customizing a pattern. Diana Rupp, the author, comes from a long line of crafters, and parlayed her passion into a career as the founder of Make Workshop, a unique DIY school that's been written about in Elle, Budget Living, BUST, Real Simple, Time Out, Vogue Patterns, and more. In S.E.W, Rupp brings the workshop home: buying the right machine; setting up a space and furnishing it with the right tools; introducing fabricsmanmade vs. natural fibers, wovens vs. knits, color theory, buying vintage fabric on eBay; the art of laying out a pattern and cutting; and becoming one with your machine, from best posture to seam allowances, buttonholes, zippers, and the finer points of hand-sewing. Then comes the fun: 25 amazing projects, 8 with patterns included, all handled with clear, step-by-step instructionsgingham wrap skirt, gauchos, drawstring pants, silky top, downtown hobo/laptop bag, patchwork throw, dog sweater, unisex boxers, vintage apron, more.