Cath Kidston's In Print: Brilliant Ideas for Using Vintage Fabrics in Your Home [ハードカバー]

Be forewarned, I have a lot to say about this book!

I especially enjoyed the feel of it; literally, the cloth-like cover, similar to 'vintage' books of the past. It was, of course, very appropriate to the book, and what attracted me to it in the store. (something one can't see about it online)

However, as a person who loves fabric, historical clothing and costume, crafts, decorating, and vintage things in general, I really did not care for the author's style of writing, or for many of her ideas/comments. I noticed that in response to someone else's brief review, an inquiry was made as to why that reviewer did not find the book helpful. Who knows why they didn't like it, but as someone else who sews, I thought I would share my thoughts on the book.

Perhaps the best way is to give some examples:

There is a duck print fabric the author states is "far too garish" to be made into children's clothing, but is ideal as dust cloths for cleaning. I actually thought the print would be very cute used in children's clothing. There is a trend these days to use unusual prints in kids' clothes to make them quite unique and stylish, and I think the duck print would be no exception!

The author mentions that she found prints from 70's decorating books "hideously overpowering as curtains, draperies, and wallpapers." Back in their day, some of us lived just fine with those, and ironically they're making a comeback, albeit with an updated look! In fairness, the author does appreciate them for other applications.

Now bean bags are another thing! I've seen their comeback in stores as well, and the author considers them "incredibly comfortable." No family member or guest thought so when one was received as a novelty gift for our home when they first appeared decades ago! To each his own!

The author appropriately assumes that some people reading the book will not be sewers. Yet when she discusses graphic florals from the seventies, she states "polyester-cotton is best avoided, but it was quite common in this era." However, she doesn't mention why it should be avoided.

Perhaps the idea that bothered me the most was chopping up a vintage 50's sundress or skirt (or even a housedress) just because it may be small-waisted or an undesirable shape ("dreadful" shape to quote the author). The author said "chop them up." I cringe at the thought; I say leave them in hopes that someone will come along that might fit them (hint hint - me!) or even preserve them for historical purposes. Unfortunately, like some collectors, the author only seems concerned about keeping intact fabrics that are associated with a collectable 'name.'

The author includes information on dying fabric, but I don't recall anything provided on cleaning vintage fabrics (i.e. testing, removing stains, etc.) I think since the book includes an appendix of sorts, this would have been helpful. The section at the back of the book does include shopping tips (which are helpful), general sewing techniques (not specific to vintage fabrics per se), sewing tips, and brief project instructions. The instructions are not detailed step-by-step and do not include illustrations, but that was okay with me since I wasn't expecting a sewing or craft book.

In the tips the author mentions using newspapers to make patterns from existing items. For those in the U.S. (the intended market?) be careful - newsprint rubs off newspapers now! (Artist newsprint is different, but the author specifically says newspapers!) However, there are some good technique points in the book such as trying to minimize the amount of damage by using staples instead of nails/tacks. I was also impressed that she mentioned to only use a very narrow hem on the lampshade since the light shows through. It was also good she mentioned safety issues when discussing embellishing the lampshades. However, I'm not so sure about the matchstick box idea since vintage fabrics are flammable; adhere and trim those edges carefully!

Although I happen to have seen most of the things in the book done before with non-vintage fabrics, everyone has come across different project ideas from different sources. Another reader may, therefore, find something new, inspiring, or useful in "Cath Kidston's In Print." For me, it was the seeing and recalling the wonderful fabrics from decades past that made this book a somewhat worthwhile purchase, not the text.

The author did mention one thing I can relate to. I too can't remember a phone number, but can recall all the prints from the homes I've lived in and all the clothes my family and I have worn over the years. If the author can do that as well, she's certainly entitled to her opinion of them!

In closing (my own book here!), you may not agree with my opinion of the book, but at least you know I actually read the text in its entirety before writing this review!

I love old fabrics and now there's this book to give me ideas for my stash of 1930s tea towels, old lace and 1940's bridge cloths.

Think beyond the original use for vintage fabric. Turn dinner napkins into throw pillows. Lace curtains can be table runners. Turn tea towels into napkins.

The photos are inspiring and the book also contains lots of tips for where to shop, sewing tips and techniques and project instructions.

...this book is for you. There are some great ideas about different ways to use all those wonderful vintage fabric scraps, tablecloths, and curtain panels you just couldn't live without but now need a home. Just the idea of scanning the fabrics (ingenious!) is worth the price alone!