Gretchen Hirsch

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Gertie's Charmed Sewing Studio

Bestselling sewing author Gretchen Hirsch returns to her roots with a fresh look at fashion classics-how they were made then, and how modern day sewists can re-create them now

Gretchen Hirsch, aka "Gertie," returns to her roots with a dive into beloved fashion classics-the mermaid gown, the 1950s Hostess Set (think Lucille Ball), the Lilli Ann princess coat-plus a little fashion history, to inspire modern-day style mavens. Sewists, thrift shoppers, and fashion collectors will love making the patterns included in the book, and learning how to reproduce their favorite looks from any vintage garment.

The first half of the book is a journey through pattern and couture sewing techniques. Gretchen combines a bounty of sketches, historic images, process photos, and clear instructions to create an irresistible sewing guide and lookbook for the vintage fashion enthusiast.

In the second half, Gretchen deconstructs three intricate designs, and shows sewists how her studio re-creates a garment-all so that readers can do the same with their favorite styles. Focusing on just three designs offers a sewing and design foundation in a full range of sizes--from 2-34, with separate A-H cup sizes. This wide range is not easy to find in other sewing books, and more important than ever for body inclusivity. Each garment (two dresses and a jacket) is shown with detailed instructions and full-size paper sewing patterns.

Featured garments: The Structured Tropical Dress The Rita Blouse The Night and Day Dress The Lilli Ann-Style Princess Coat The Rose Dressing Gown The Tropical Mermaid Gown The Marilyn Jeans The Rose Marie Reid Swimsuit The Jane Set The Cummerbund Bubble Dress Plus full-size patterns for: The Madeleine Dress, the Camille Sheath Dress, and the Lillian Jacket