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 like every one 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 surgers 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.

Melissa Fehr knows her active wear! She not only sews her own but she actually works out in it too. This has allowed her to tweak her designs over the years so that they are easy to sew and comfortable to wear. Her book, Sew Your Own Activewear, is the only resource you need to produce your own workout wardrobe – even the pattern blocks are included.
Fehr's instructions are thorough and comprehensive. She explains exactly how to achieve the look you want. She has provided explanatory diagrams and lovely photos of the finished product to help you along. Also included in the book, are her pattern blocks, all you need to add is thread and fabric . She guides you through several variation for each of the pattern blocks. Using Fehr's book and your creativity you will never buy RTW active wear again!
Highly recommended for the active home sewist!

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 exercise for my job. As I become more aware of practices behind clothing manufacture the more interested I am in making my own active wear. I also have broad shoulders and large upper arms and like the idea of making tops that actually fit me. My first project will be leggings with side panel pockets - these have no zips and can be wide enough to fit a travel card. I would have liked some more sports bras but perhaps that will be Melissa Fehr’s next book? The production quality wasn’t as slick as a DK book, the photos not as professional but the proof of the pudding will be in the finished product. At this stage I give it 4 stars ⭐️

Wow, this book has a lot to offer! Although I've not used any of the techniques here yet, I will absolutely feel ready to tackle activewear clothing. I especially love the inclusion of different types of seams and which fabrics to use and which to avoid. The patterns are very well-written, too. The one thing I disliked was the fabric designs chosen; I found some patterns hard to imagine what they would look like if they were made with fabric I would choose.

Thank you to the author for aming this book for beginner sewers like myself. There were terms I had heard before while sewing or read but no one ever explained them to me as clearly as the author did.
She gives advice on non traditional sizes and how to work around those sizes.

Mom of 4 I needed some simple easy patterns and designs I can start and stop without feeling like I am lost when I start a few days later.
Thank you to Netgalley for the advance copy.

I can't wait to start my new sewing project!

Oh, this book is just wonderful! It is a fantastic, comprehensive guide on how to properly fit activewear. I was really pleased that it showed you how to make adjustments when your garment isn't fitting right. Five stars alone for that. I am buying this book as soon as it comes out. Great for intermediate seamstresses.. Maybe even advanced people could learn a thing or two.

Written in a practical, easy to understand and follow style this book should be a hit with sewers of all ages and levels. Four basic blocks are provided but if making your own sewing block isnt for you a link is included to download patterns. All the sewing essentials are included to help you to make your own unique sportswear with a professional finish.
This book is perfect for sewers who want to make their own comfortable fitting activewear. The patterns suit a range of skill levels and multiple items produced using the wide variety of fabrics and prints available.
Written in a practical, easy to understand and follow style this book should be a hit with sewers of all ages and levels. If making your own sewing block isnt for you a link is included to download patterns. All the sewing essentials are here to help you to make your own unique sportswear with a professional finish.
This book is perfect for sewers who want to make their own comfortable fitting activewear. The patterns suit a range of skill levels and multiple items produced using the wide variety of fabrics and prints available.

Thanks for letting me review this book. I thought this was a great book for sewing activewear when there are not many books or patterns for this type of clothing. I saw several pieces that I would like to sew in the future.