While The Complete Book of Sewing from DK has nice photo images, The Reader's Digest: New Complete Guide to Sewing has better step-by-step instructions for various tasks, like trimming a neckline with piping, and includes more decor sewing projects, such as a small quilt. I probably reference the Complete Guide to Sewing most often and would recommend buying the newest edition rather then the older because of the improved clarity of the illustrations. I also have the Coats and Clark's book, Garments for Beginners. This book has very, very detailed color photo instructions for a few specific projects like a basic T-shirt or elastic waist skirt. Not a whole lot of style but good for practicing knit fabric techniques. The more comprehensive Reader's Digest tome includes similar instructions for items like a dressy pant or blouse but the steps are less in-depth.

Finally, Donald McCunn's How to Make Sewing Patterns complements the fit and alteration sections of the "guide" books. The author thoroughly explains the concept of patternmaking in relationship to the body. He provides complete mini sample information on techniques for basic alterations or adding interesting details to existing patterns, such as a raglan sleeve or mandarin collar. While some of the steps and illustrations were mystifying at first, it helped to actually try a sample and see how it worked. After I make the design or fit changes on my paper pattern using McCunn's book, I look to Reader's Digest on how to finish the garment.