Adventures With Polarfleece: A Sewing Expedition

Rating:
Summary: Fantastic!
Review: I just purchased this title and can't put the book down. It is extremely thorough and includes everything you could possibly need to know including identifying quality fabric, choosing the correct needle, troubleshooting, inserting zippers and embellishing. A definite must read for fleece lovers!

Rating:
Summary: Useful information
Review: I read this book simulataneously with Rochelle Harpers "Sew the New Fleece." There is much overlap and both books are good. Cornwell's book had a very useful section in the beginning that lists all the mills that make synthetic fleece and pile fabrics, who they supply (e.g., who supplies LL Bean, who supplies Patagonia, etc.), and what the various characteristics are of each type of fabric--she knows what she is talking about in this area. As far as fleece construction techniques, I thought that Harper's book beat out Cornwell's with more options and details. Cornwell's had a lot of "cheater" shortcuts that I wasn't interested in since I want to make good, solid ready-to-wear style outdoor garments. Also, Cornwell's focus was too much on the baby-bunting/"fashion" jacket/granddaughter's outfit-type projects rather than the serious outdoor garment scene. Many of the photographed garments screamed "I'm homemade!," and she spends too many pages on techniques like "fleece sculpturing" that could only have applications in tacky, crafty, homemade looking projects. If your goal is serious outdoor wear, Harper edges out Cornwell, but the serious sewer will want to read both.

Rating:
Summary: Useful information
Review: I read this book simulataneously with Rochelle Harpers "Sew the New Fleece." There is much overlap and both books are good. Cornwell's book had a very useful section in the beginning that lists all the mills that make synthetic fleece and pile fabrics, who they supply (e.g., who supplies LL Bean, who supplies Patagonia, etc.), and what the various characteristics are of each type of fabric--she knows what she is talking about in this area. As far as fleece construction techniques, I thought that Harper's book beat out Cornwell's with more options and details. Cornwell's had a lot of "cheater" shortcuts that I wasn't interested in since I want to make good, solid ready-to-wear style outdoor garments. Also, Cornwell's focus was too much on the baby-bunting/"fashion" jacket/granddaughter's outfit-type projects rather than the serious outdoor garment scene. Many of the photographed garments screamed "I'm homemade!," and she spends too many pages on techniques like "fleece sculpturing" that could only have applications in tacky, crafty, homemade looking projects. If your goal is serious outdoor wear, Harper edges out Cornwell, but the serious sewer will want to read both.

Rating:
Summary: Beyond a doubt the best book on polar fleece on the market!
Review: There is no question, the techniques and practical guides in this book are the best I've read. Nancy has comprehensive and detailed photos for each technique! And the ideas are todays look and ready to wear professional. I would urge anyone who is sewing on fleece to hurry and purchase this one. No affiliation just a happy customer! Enjoy