Stackpole Books Sewing Project Book: Wind‑Wrap‑Sew Fabric Purses, Baskets & Bowls — Step‑by‑Step Coil Technique

It's a Wrap teaches a simple wind-wrap-sew method to turn fabric strips and cotton clothesline into durable purses, bowls, baskets, and lids.

This project book from Stackpole Books walks makers through a step-by-step coil technique that starts with a flat plate and expands into four basic container families: round, oval, square, and purse-shaped vessels. Clear instructions, illustrations, and project variations show how fabric choice, strip width, and stitching patterns change size, texture, and structure. The approach relies on wrapping fabric around cotton clothesline, coiling the wrapped cord, and securing each turn by machine stitching, so you can create sturdy, washable pieces in a variety of scales and uses.

How does the wind-wrap-sew technique actually work?

The method is built on three simple actions: wind fabric strips around a core (usually cotton clothesline), wrap those strips neatly to form a continuous cord, and sew the coils together as you build the shape. Starting with a flat plate lets you practice tension, stitch placement, and coil alignment before moving to taller or more complex forms.

• Wrap fabric strips around a clothesline to create a fabric-covered cord.
• Coil the wrapped cord into the desired base shape (plate, oval, square).
• Sew each new coil to the previous coil with a sewing machine for strength.
• Adjust strip width and stitch spacing to change texture and stiffness.

What container styles and shapes can I make from the book?

The book guides you through four core families—round, oval, square, and purse shapes—then shows how to vary height, diameter, and rim finishing to produce bowls, baskets, lids, and wearable purses. Each style includes tips for scaling up or down so the same basic technique yields tiny bowls or market-sized totes.

• Round and oval vessels for bowls, planters, and catchalls.
• Square and rectangular forms for storage boxes and desk organisers.
• Purse-style constructions with reinforced rims and optional handles.
• Instructions for lids, handles, and decorative additions to personalize projects.

What materials, tools, and skills do I need to get started?

Materials are intentionally minimal: cotton clothesline for the core, fabric scraps or cut strips, thread, and a standard sewing machine capable of zigzag or straight stitching. Basic sewing familiarity helps, but the book starts with a plate exercise so beginners can learn coil control and stitch technique before attempting complex shapes.

• Common supplies: cotton clothesline, fabric scraps, sewing thread, interfacing if desired.
• Tools: domestic sewing machine, sharp scissors, fabric clips or pins, measuring tape.
• Beginner-friendly: step-by-step plate project to build confidence.
• Optional: embellishments like leather handles, beads, or appliqué for customization.

How do I customize texture, colour, and durability?

Texture and appearance come from fabric choice (cotton, quilting prints, upcycled clothing) and how tightly you wind the fabric around the core. Wider strips and tighter stitches yield firmer sides; looser winding creates softer, drapey vessels. The book includes finishing options—edge treatments, reinforcing rims, and closures—to make pieces both attractive and long-lasting.

• Change strip width or fabric type to alter stiffness and patterning.
• Use dense stitching and tighter coils for functional, load-bearing baskets.
• Add interfacing or a lining for extra structure and a clean interior finish.
• Finish with handles, lids, or decorative stitching for a polished look.

Who is this book for: It's a practical, idea-rich resource for stitchers, quilters, crafters, and makers who want to repurpose fabric scraps into functional home goods and accessories. Beginners will appreciate the gradual plate-to-container learning path, while experienced sewists can use the technique to experiment with scale, mixed materials, and embellished surface treatments. If you enjoy hands-on projects with measurable results and a low-cost materials list, this title provides clear instructions and plenty of creative variations to keep you crafting.