The Singer Sewing Book (1949) contains basic timeless information about hand and machine sewing, fabric characteristics alterations for fitting problems, and clothing details, lavishly illustrated with line drawings. Leafing through the book makes me feel that anything is possible. Quilting, smocking, making lace insertion, shirring, fagoting, hemstitch, tubing -- it's all in there and the illustrations are 50s romantic! There are chapters on draperies, slipcovers and headboards, and mending. There are suggested color charts for home decorating. This book is thorough, useful and concise.