Looking for a good general sewing book.

My mom bought me "Simplicity: Simply the Best Sewing Book" by Anne Marie Soto (Plastic Comb - Dec 1, 2001) when I got my first sewing machine a few years ago (I'm in my 30's btw) and I love it.  It's a great reference for any sewing technique and it's spiral bound, so it lays flat while you're working.  And I second the advice on using your public library, I've been so impressed with what our library holds, it's a great resource. 

This is a great thread!  I was actually going to post the same question..  Being a new (and way too eager) sewer, I jump into projects and have to go online to research techniques for just about every step of a pattern.  Lots of great book recommendations, but has anybody used Sewing for Dummies?  What are thoughts about that one...?  Thanks!!   

I like "Bend the Rules Sewing" by Amy Karol  and also "S.E.W. The Sew Everything Workshop" by Diana Rupp.  They are both very detailed and explain everything from how to properly sew on a button to more intricate things like ruffles and pleats and darts.

I am new at sewing and absolutely LOVE it! A friend let me borrow Amy Butler's In Stitches: More Than 25 Simple and Stylish Sewing Projects. It has some really cute projects in it and it even has little pattern cut outs and stuff. It doesn't have a lot of general information in it (like techniques and stuff) but it is definitely a great book. Thanks for the library tip, by the way. That is a great idea and I'm going to try that out! I tried a "Sewing for Dummies" pattern and I thought it was really difficult (ironically). It did have some good tips/tricks in the directions though. Haven't read the book though because the pattern was so hard. Good luck!

Allison LeCoq

http://www.builtbywendy.com/onlineshop/cart.php?target=product&product_id=16702&category_id=303

Sew U: Built by Wendy is a great basic book although it does have some projects in the back.  It goes over very basic sewing rules and skills but has lots of hints.  Check it out at the library first and you might find yourself heading over to the bookstore to have it on your shelves at home.. I know I would like to.

I like all the comments about getting books from the library first.  In addition I would add my second rule to decide if the book should be purchased:  If it's a technique book make sure that the directions are clear if it's a project book count the total number of projects and if you are motivated to make more then a third of them consider buying the book (note this rule also works well for recipies.

I couldn't live without "More Fabric Savvy" by Sandra Betzina.  Although it doesn't cover traditional sewing techniques, it gives you all the information you need to know on how to use every fabric.  It goes on to explain what tread, needle size and presser foot works best on that particular fabric.  I find this information invaluable and use its guidance on every project.

Singer's Complete Photo Guide to Sewing is a good reference. The pics are taken close up and are easy to learn from.

Anna Maria Horner's Seams to Me does have projects, but it also has a really good forward with basic sewing techniques and pictures.  It is my favorite!