The book begins with a description of the kit you really need, including how to choose your first sewing machine for dressmaking. The second chapter describes how to choose and prepare textiles, and/or alter a paper pattern. This chapter includes a detailed article on interfacing (vital for crisp collars!) At the heart of the book are the chapters on technique. No resource is more thorough in its detailed explanations of darts, pleats, gathers, tucks, shirring, seams (including hairline and Hong Kong), pockets, closures, fitting sleeves, collars and cuffs, and adding yokes and bindings. There is a whole chapter devoted to working with stretch fabric.  And, finally, chapters on how to give your garments a professional finish with instructions for facings and linings.  All the techniques are shown as step-by-step sequences, which you can read at your own pace.