In Part II, seasoned dressmaker Carolyn Denham leads you step by step through fifteen achievable projects, each building on the skills gained as you progress through the book. First, equip your sewing room with practical items you never knew you needed, such as a Tailor’s Ham, Sleeve Roll and an Ironing Board Cover (essential items for good pressing practice), a Hussif (the ever ready portable sewing kit) and a Maker’s Apron (utilitarian chic for good workers). Then go on to use your new sewing skills to make cushions, throws and bags before progressing on to garments with the Tailored Shawl and Fisherman’s Top, using the paper patterns provided in the back of the book.

Make them all and you will be a very capable dressmaker with a raft of functional, beautiful, handmade goods.