Home sewing is booming again. Inspired by sites like Etsy, Craftsy, Pinterest, and CreativeBug, by the continuing popularity of Project Runway and other fashion shows, and by the ever-growing DIY movement, there are more than 35 million sewists in America. Now, for this new generation that wants to make their own clothes, express their fashion sense, look great, be creative--and save money, to boot--comes Amy Barickman's The Magic Pattern Book, an illustrated guide to creating a one-of-a-kind wardrobe from six magic patterns.

What makes a sewing pattern magic?...