Black & White Publishing, an imprint of Bonnier Books UK, has acquired Serena Sews, the sought-after guide to the craft from Great British Sewing Bee 2021 winner Serena Baker.
World rights for Serena Sews were acquired from Geraldine Woods at Yellow Poppy Media by Alison McBride, publishing director at Black & White Publishing.
Celebrating Serena’s passion for repurposing and ‘refashioning’, Serena Sews is a how-to on creating sustainable styles. Readers will find stunning photography and designs with projects for every level. Serena provides lessons on must-have skills and key pieces of kit, bringing her knowledge to the page for readers to learn and build confidence.
Her advice on techniques and practical skills allows readers to tailor their designs with their own style and create long-lasting items. Serena has easy-to-follow guides that move away from fast fashion to create a unique and versatile wardrobe. Whether resourcefully upcycling a pre-loved item or creating something brand new from extra material, Serena Sews will have readers creating clothes that will be cherished for years.
Serena is the youngest ever winner of The Great British Sewing Bee at 22 years old, praised by the judges as the ‘most technical seamstress’. She studies medicine at the University of Edinburgh but is self-taught in the craft of sewing. Her blossoming style and passion for sustainability created show-stopping designs on the BBC One show. Serena Sews is her first book.
Alison McBride said: “Serena wowed the judges with her artistic flair and inspired a wave of sewers in the process. Bringing fresh life back into the craft, Serena became loved by viewers new and old. Serena has encouraged so many people this past year to find happiness in the hobby and we are really excited to be working with her to share her talent. Serena Sews is full of unique projects and fantastic tips for becoming more sustainable. Whether you’re new to it or a seasoned sewer, this book has lots of inspiring things for you to do.”
Serena said: “Writing this book has been such an overwhelming, exciting and fun experience. The process, from designing these patterns to sewing the garments and finally writing the words, has consumed my thoughts for many months. I cannot wait to see the finished article and to share my sewing journey and designs with the world.”
Serena Sews will be published in June 2022.
