New Book Empowers Beginners to Sew with Confidence and Creativity

"Sewing Basics for Beginner Costuming” by Michelle Elliot Winchester Launches November 11th, 2025

Library Tales Publishing proudly announces the release of Sewing Basics for Beginner Costuming by Michelle Elliot Winchester, a friendly, thorough, and inspiring guide designed for aspiring costumers, theatre enthusiasts, and crafting novices alike.

Drawing on over three decades of professional costuming and university-level teaching, Winchester’s new book offers a clear, approachable path for anyone eager to bring characters to life through sewing—no prior experience required.

“Sewing can seem intimidating,” says Winchester, “but once you understand the fundamentals—how to thread your machine, choose fabrics, and construct with care—it becomes a joyful act of creativity. This book is for anyone who’s ever dreamed of making magic with a sewing machine.”

Inside the book, readers will discover:

• Foundations of hand and machine sewing explained with warmth and clarity
• Tips for working with specialty fabrics, trims, and fasteners
• Budget-conscious costume-building strategies for schools, theatres, and cosplayers
• A complete glossary of must-know sewing terms and tools
• Encouragement and safety advice from a seasoned theatre costumer

With a tone that’s equal parts teacher and creative mentor, Winchester’s book transforms what can feel like a daunting skill into an empowering, accessible craft. Perfect for classroom use, community theatres, and creative hobbyists, Sewing Basics for Beginner Costuming promises to become an indispensable reference for generations of makers.

About the Author

Michelle Elliot Winchester began sewing at age nine and created her first costume in fifth grade. Over the past 30 years, she has costumed productions for high schools, community theatres, universities, and summer stock programs. Winchester holds an MFA in Costume Design and Technology from the University of South Dakota and has taught courses in Costume Design, Costume Construction, Stage Makeup, and Theatre History at the university level for over two decades.

She currently resides in Greentop, Missouri, where she continues to teach, write, and inspire a new generation of costumers and creators.

Publication Details

Title: Sewing Basics for Beginner Costuming
Author: Michelle Elliot Winchester
Publisher: Library Tales Publishing
Publication Date: November 11, 2025
Format: Paperback & eBook
Length: 109 pages
Genre: How-To / Costume Design / Sewing

Availability

Sewing Basics for Beginner Costuming will be available through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Bookshop.org, and Library Tales Publishing. Review copies, interviews, and media materials are available upon request.

For review copies, interviews, or speaking engagements, please contact: Press@Librarytales.com