Summary: Well thought out book for beginner to intermediate sewers that want to tackle more challenging, activewear bottoms and tops. Readers may need some extra support beyond the book to complete patterns. Photos of garments needed more care and attention prior to publication, as some weren't flattering/didn't fit well.

Pros

- Well thought-out with regards to structure; beginners and intermediate sewers will appreciate the tone and feel of this book. There's no pandering or talking-down here; everything is accessible, open, friendly and informative.

- Clearly communicates sometimes challenging instructions and concepts, along with pictures wherever needed. I especially appreciated the photos of the "mistake" seams, and how to fix them.

- Inclusive book, in that it openly states it's intended for all.

- Blocks available for download for digital copy holders; with a quick sign in proving you've purchased the item in question, you'll have access to printable "blocks" for each of the patterns listed.

Cons

- The copy I received didn't translate well to Adobe Reader. I couldn't see full images of many of the photos, and some of the pages were blank.

- The photos of some of the final items concerned me, in that I didn't find them appealing or well-fitted. The shorts were the first I took note of - extra puckering in the crotch area, and looseness elsewhere, didn't make me jump to try these out.

- A bit more explanation required regarding the "blocks"; new to intermediate sewers may not understand the difference between these and patterns, as well as how to use them.

Thank you to the publisher for giving me advance access to this book for review purposes. ( )

I don't do much sewing these days but I asked for this book because it is so hard to find sportswear that I like that is not exactly what everyone else is wearing. If you do like to sew and are interested in activewear, this book might be what you need.

Everything is well explained and easily understood. The explanations of different fabrics options are good and the measuring and cutting instructions are clear. A lot of time is spent discussing different kinds of seams and finishing and how to manage if you don't have a room full of specialty sewing appliances like sergers and overlockers. A zigzag machine is pretty much required though.

Experience working with knits and stretch fabric will be helpful here, although not required. Also helpful will be some understanding of how block designs are different from patterns. You can get that with a little online work.

I received a review copy of "Sew Your Own Activewear: Make a Unique Sportswear Wardrobe from Four Basic Sewing Blocks" by Melissa Fehr (F+W Media) through NetGalley.com. ( )