Way back when (eons in internet years), in early 2005, I befriended a certain not-so-Angry Chicken, when we began our blogs in the very same week. Our conversations revolved around babies, breastfeeding, homeschooling, homebirthing and a little bit of interfacing and fabric thrown in for good measure. Very good stuff. Over time, our conversations grew to include books and publishers and literary agents, as first she began her book, and then I followed. It felt much like being pregnant at the same time as a dear friend, except of course, Amy actually was pregnant too. It's a tricky balance - finding the time to write (or work or play or do anything else, for that matter) while still maintaining the most important role of all - Mama - but Amy does it beautifully. I watched my sweet friend closely in her own process, and learned so very much. I'm incredibly inspired and also incredibly proud of her.
So you know, I truly loved Bend-the-Rules Sewing before it was published. But a few days after it's arrival here - when I was still carrying it with me everywhere I went to look at the amazing photography and Amy's super-cute illustrations - I realized I loved the book for more than just being my friend's book, but also because it just happens to be a fabulous sewing book (that's my completely unbiased opinion). So many people ask me for a good beginner's everything-you-need-to-know-but-stylish-too (really, that's just what they ask for), and until now, I've had nothing to offer them for a suggestion. I'm so pleased that Amy's book fills those shoes and more. Amy's fun, light, smart and quirky voice shines in this book and makes reading patterns a blast. And the sewing tips in the beginning of the book are full of info for beginners and more experienced sewers alike. That girl knows her stuff.
Adelaide adores this book too (loving all the cute babies right up), so I let her pick the first project (sort of...maybe I encouraged her a little). It was kind of a tough choice - there are some really great kids patterns in there, which I think is really lacking in sewing books in general right now. Ultimately, we went for the Woodland Elf Hat - oh, so good. The pattern was super easy and fun to follow. It's generously sized so that I know it will fit Adelaide all winter. I used a felted wool blanket, and it's just the right thickness to not be too heavy. You know, for those July days when I convince her to wear it all day. Thank goodness she loves hats.
Thank you, Amy, and congratulations on yet another birth this month! Yay!
