Saturday, February 25, 2012

In the Library

Anyone would think my bookshelf could hold more books....
I had an Amazon gift card at xmas time and pre-ordered the Shape Shape book along with the Collette Sewing Handbook.   They arrived yesterday.

I was looking forward to the arrival of both.  I'd looked through Lara's Collette book and had instantly realised that it's a must-have for my sewing reference library.   The Shape Shape book was one I looked forward to as a surprise package, because ... well, it's a Japanese clothing book that promises "garments that can be worn in multiple ways".  My kind of thing, really...

 
 I must say, it's not quite as inspiring as I'd hoped.  I was anticipating the clever-clever design ideas of  Pattern Magic and Drape Drape callibre. 
 There are more accessories, old ideas and basic garments than I'd like to see in a book that promised a bit more...all very beautifully presented with to-die-for eye-candy styling, of course.... but it's a bit light-on for knock-your-socks-off inspiration.
 The Colette book is quite a different kettle of fish.  It's purpose for me is purely to add to my bustin-out-all-over reference library.
 I think the presentation of the information is fantastic, and it covers all the basics for the beginning and developing dressmaker.
 Even though I know most of this stuff, I like to have resources for teaching and references for when I need to check what I know against general-knowledge sewing techniques (or when I've simply forgotten how to do something).  And there's always the possibility of learning something new.
I've noticed that I'm not the only one who sits at the bottom of my stairs and pulls out books, researching as if in a library or browsing as if in a shop.  Friends who drop in, class participants and family members all enjoy my bookshelf.
I just don't think my bookshelf enjoys my book addiction that much.  I think we're headed for another EXPLOSION!

PS.  The yarn-book library is at home.... heading in a similar direction.

12 comments:

Unknown said...

I love your bookshelf. It's better than what is offer at my local library (although I can source lots of crafty books from other libraries and pick them up from mine). It's funny, but I can see a few books on your shelf that I have on mine.

You would think with the internet, and all those lovely blogs we have as resources, we wouldn't need books, but nothing beats them, does it?

A Peppermint Penguin said...

I've been seeing adverts for that japanese book all week and thought of you! Interesting it's not up to snuff. I'm keen to get the new patchwork one, it's reprints of patterns from the boutique sha books, I have nearly the full set in Japanese and I want to see the english instructions! I don't need them, I just want to see them, plus I don't have the star book, so I'll get a *few* patterns for my money.

No sign of your book yet :(

I always check any shots of your library for the books I have. I'm certain you have all mine, I just don't have anywhere near all yours!

Unknown said...

I posted about my craft library this week too, glad to see someone else has "bibliomania". You have a great collection of sewing books and I love your latest additions.

Leonie said...

I'm trying to put my library on a diet, but it is hard. Its a bit like giving away your children. Although the books are not as noisy.
Always nice to get new books though, brightens my day. They both look gorgeous, especially the Colette one.

Lotti said...

Gorgeous books ... love the skirt with the ruffle down the front, it's so pretty. Those book look gorgeous. I think I have 'bibliomania' too .

florine foulon said...

Terrific books, I love the pictures in there!

Fiona said...

You can never have too many books . .although my bookshelves are groaning at the thought!

The Collette book looks interesting ... might have to hop over to Amazon ......

Fer said...

Yes but honestly, you can NEVER have too many books! xoxo

bec said...

I love parking my bum on the bottom of the stairs and checking out your books, a great collection! I had a friend stay recently and she parked her butt near my bookshelf and went through it in similar fashion. Lovely to share it around! I wasn't sure about the Colette book, I haven't tried a pattern yet, it looks like one to get though!

Spot of Colour said...

As a Librarian, and a sewing addict, I am insanely jealous of your collection! I would definitely plonk myself down in front of them for hours ...

Mary said...

Well I must say, I agree with you completely. No matter how big the shelf gets, its never big enough. I even went on a BIG book diet over the last year- mostly. Love your collection and your reasons!

Jacinta said...

Hey Nikki - just clicked on the first link to the shape shape book and it went to blogger home page... the second link worked though (and the book is very tempting!)