Talkin 'bout a Revolution!

As in the book: "Denim Revolution" by Nancy Minsky. Have you heard of it?

Well let me review it for you (my first book review EVER...), shall I?

"Denim Revolution" is a sewing/fashion/craft book that aims to show you "dozens of ways to turn denim cast-offs into fashion must-haves". It is a book filled with beautiful photos, handy diagrams, and stylish fashion sketches all there to inspire you to breathe new life and excitement into your own denim wardrobe. The book has something for everyone. Styles range from reckless to sassy, from cute to classy.

Nancy Minsky tackles the subject with a little denim background, explaining how denim is made and how it behaves. She describes what the bias of a fabric is and why it's important. She illustrates how to adjust a pattern and lists the essential tools needed to make each project.

The bulk of the book is taken up with an assortment of step-by-step upcycling projects. The author shows you how to use denim patches to embellish existing items. She demonstrates how to re-invent your denim clothing by adding embroidery, patches, slashing, fraying, stenciling, ribbon, buttons. She teaches you how to create whole new fashion statements by recycling old denim into a cap, a belt, a tie, a cape, gauntlets, cuffs, bags. Denim Revolution illustrates the funkification of vests, jackets, skirts, shorts, or jeans. Projects are suited to a range of skill levels from beginner to experienced. Some projects are very simple, others are more complex, and require combinations of skills.

One of my favourite parts of the book explains how to use a hammer and nails to add texture to your denim pieces (!) and states that it's okay to dribble house paint on your jeans à la Jackson Pollack. Let me at it. I like Ms. Minsky's way of challenging the reader to improvise and create his or her own unique versions of her designs. I like to be adventurous when I am crafting; I want to feel empowered to do my own thing. Denim Revolution does that.

I'll conclude this review with a teaser. I have joined the revolution! And I am working on a project inspired by Nancy Minsky's book. I'll be back soon with photos of the finished project, and thoughts on how it all went down!

Now have a yourself a great day, and I will see you soon!

Note:

• I was not asked to review this book. The book was a gift from the author and I chose to review it here. The above opinions are my own.
• "Denim Revolution" was written by Nancy Minsky. Find Ms. Minsky online @ 21st Century Dressmakers and blogging @ Jean Repair.