The purchase I made at Overstock.com was a gift for a friend. I already own the book and found it so very useful that I thought my friend would enjoy it as well. I wanted to try sewing my own Halloween costume and to teach myself sewing. It was extremely helpful with information on what tools you will need to begin, types of materials, different techniques for hemming, and many, many pictures. The last third of the book includes many different projects including: pillows, clothing, and many styles of curtains.I had only used my sewing machine a few times prior to this project mostly sewing hems for curtains. Nothing too complicated. I finished my costume in time for Halloween including the zipper and buttons! It was quite the accomplishment for myself.