A Reading List

I collect old sewing books - I mean, REALLY old sewing books. Like 1894 kinda old.

This may be an odd hobby (hopefully not to you, Readers) , but I collect old sewing books.  The book above this paragraph is one of my very favorites.  Until recently, there was no evidence on the internet that other copies of this book even existed.  I see that it isn't publicly for sale anywhere, but some libraries do have it in their collections. here's why I love books like this one so much; sewing books from the late 1800's have a very special, authoritarian, Martha Stewart-esque tone that just makes me want to devour every single word in them.  I have always loved learning  terribly difficult methods of doing something before finding the best compromise of an easier, effective method. For example, I had to make an entirely hand-stitched quilt to appreciate the strength and regularity of machine stitches. I now have about 20 such books, and I adore and treasure them in a way that sometimes makes me question my own sanity.

Having said that, though, it probably comes as no surprise to you that I love to read.  During the time I've been writing posts on this blog, I have read many things that have inspired, educated, and/or entertained me.  I am always impressed by the commitment and work a person invests in writing a book, and I really love when I can share that love with others.

Here are some links to the most awesome sewing and garment-related books I've discovered recently. I invite you to love them as much as I have:

Girl in Translation (a beautifully told story that really opened my eyes to sweatshop labor here in New York City)

The Man Who Wanted to Buy a Heart (I met the author thinking that he would be interesting as a writer... but I discovered a wildly interesting person, with really important stories to tell)

The Lost Art of Dress Written by a sewing colleague/friend I am truly proud to know, this book gives a beautifully respectful treatment of the social, societal, and cultural implications of dress in recent American history that provides endless fuel for  thought.  A truly worthwhile read. 

Read on, Sewsters...