nonfiction; sewing (stretch/jersey fabric; slow-sewing decorative details)
Patterns (lots of them!) are included on CD, so you'll have to print--either at a printer's that can print on large paper or by using a tiling program (not included) to break them up for printing onto 8-1/2x11"s--before copying to your size (with some of simpler patterns, an experienced pattern drafter may be able to just wing it using the basic shape given in the illustrations and their measurements).
Pattern sizing: XS (28-30" bust, 23-24" waist, 32-33" hip) through XXL (44-46" bust, 35-36" waist, 43-44" hip). "Note: When choosing your size, remember that cotton jersey stretches when worn. What begins as a snug dress will relax after only an hour of wearing." Pictured models vary in age and size.

Alabama Chanin's patterns are always so comfortable-looking but still stylish (some of them quite fancy and fashionable) but I'd like this a lot better if the patterns were included on paper--this particular edition did not. It does give instructions on lots of various alterations as well as a (lovely!) stitch library with a few tips/instructions for creating the beautiful hand-stitched detailing that AC is known for. ( )

Natalie Chanin is a designer who has featured in Vogue. She has generously released a number of books featuring the secrets of her sewing, including patterns. She uses organic cotton jersey and so far her patterns have been true to the sizes indicated. What makes her patterns unique is that they are hand sewn and appeal to a person who is interested in the slow sewing movement - I have made a number of tops using her 'corset' design which is a beautifully fitted top better suited, unfortunately, to thinner people - this has been enthusiastically accepted by anyone I have made it for and can be embellished in a number of ways. She is ethically motivated in the running of her enterprise in that she avoids waste and hurting the environment. She is willing to sell materials, patterns (the books all contain her original patterns), threads, etc all of which she uses in her organisation to those who want to make their own garments. She realises that many people cannot afford the price of couture garments. If you are interested in sewing you could fall in love with these books. ( )