[.ca] Embellish Chic: Detailing Ready-To-Wear (ISBN 1561584851)

Too Basic:
The author is very detail oriented and explains each technique well. However, there are no unique or inspiring examples. They are extremely common and plain. This book is definitely not for the artsy and creative person looking for that one new and inspiring method to express and create. I want to pack it up and ship it right back.

Tips on using applique, embroidery, and beading:
This set of clothing embellishment guides from Taunton Press carefully and clearly explains how to use additions of beads, ribbons, and other trims to translate usual to unusual clothing. The tips on using applique, embroidery, and beading to enhance these garments blend step-by-step instructional photos with finished results and are inspirational and revealing.

Excellent starting point for sewing wearable art:
Connie Long shows delightfully simple techniques for embellishing your plain clothing. Ideas include beaded fringes and tassels, machine couching, lace edges, ribbons and other trims, appliqués, closures, collages, and hardware. Each idea includes one or more color photos to show techniques and then the finished effect, which provides inspiration for one's own projects. For someone just beginning to make wearable art or just wanting to add zip to a tired wardrobe, this is a good starting point. There's nothing too challenging, and most of the ideas can be completed fairly quickly.