The essential guide for home sewers, clothes designers, and fabric enthusiasts of all levels. Explaining the unique characteristics, strengths, and limitations of each fabric, this book arms the reader with all the information they need to help them choose the best fabric for their designs. The first section of this book provides a comprehensive overview of the many different natural and manmade fibers and weaves, including cottons, linens, silks, and wools. Each entry provides a description of the fabric's characteristics, possible combinations, and special considerations when using the fabric on machines. Also included are handy icons that provide a quick reference to the suitability of that fabric for certain projects (i.e. clothes, home furnishings, upholstery, etc.), and useful close-up shots of each fabric. The second section of the book provides valuable information on using the fabric, discussing tools to work with fabric and notions for fabric. A final resources section includes sizing and measurement charts as well as website resources. This book is indispensable for the sewing/craft room, and the format is small enough to throw into your bag when you are heading to the fabric store. The Essential Guide to Working with Fabrics, Trimmings & Notions