It's Sew Easy: Series 600

Each of the 13 half-hour episodes from this public-TV-aired sixth season of It's Sew Easy features 3-4 segments on sometimes unrelated topics. In one program, for instance, an instructor demonstrates how to use a serger, while another guide discusses princess seams for a “little black dress,” and a couture expert covers adding fluting—curved tucks—to a fashionable top. These presentations are not for beginners—no step-by-step process explains how to finish a project, for example—and for many items (such as a baby pillow that expands to an appliqued sheet for a little one to play on) the viewer is directed to a website for details. Several of the installments also feature products from the show's sponsors, such as sewing machine accessories that turn hems or gather cloth, or a pattern-cutting machine. In addition, the technical qualities occasionally seem amateurish (often the camera can't quite capture what the demonstrator is talking about), and details can be sketchy: “For sewing silk, you can just use regular thread,” one presenter says—but what is “regular”? Optional, at best. Aud: P. (F. Gardner)