Something from nothing is my favourite equation so I was excited to find 50 Nifty Thrifty Upcycled Fashions by Cynthia Anderson, which promises to be a guide to creating a fun, stylish new wardrobe from tired old pieces and found treasures.I have recently re-discovered jumble sales, which appear to be undergoing a resurgence in our locale, so now and then I am able to source garments far more cheaply than even at charity shops or on Ebay. Having a book like this, I thought, would encourage me to buy those too-big but great quality pieces and alter them myself, as the author would show me how to transform any old thing into unique, eco-friendly fashion. However, although the author says readers only need to have basic machine and hand-sewing skills, it does also require a huge amount of confidence and general flair. A lot of projects need you to "draw four arches on the garment with chalk - one centre front, one centre back and one on each side just under the bustline". I really need a diagram to show me exactly what this means before I get the scissors out. In addition, the sewing steps are put together in a paragraph and I need bullet points. Photos or sketches to explain each new technique would have been very helpful. I know Cynthia Anderson is keen for her readers to "think Wabi Sabi, not perfection or mathematical precision" but there is a fine line between "wacky" and "failed". There are good tips for sourcing materials and adding details and embellishments and plenty of colourful ideas for creating one-of-a-kind fashions from different eras on a budget.I would recommend Cynthia Anderon's book to anyone studying textiles or fashion who is skilled with a needle and prepared to throw caution to the wind. Even though upcycling is a penny-pinching, eco-minded hobby, I don't think I'm quite ready for a creative adventure on this scale just yet.
