For hobbyists; Soft Furnishings: Ideas and Fabrics by Designers Guild, by Tricia Guild. New York: Farrar, Straus & Giroux. $14.95 (paperback).

Here's a great new book on home accessories which has everything one could want in a craft or sewing book. There are sections on making sheets, curtains, and cushions. Other chapters discuss lampshades, blinds and upholstery. One called "Small Things" explains how to line baskets, cover picture frames, and make little bags.

The directions are so clear they can be understood the first time through, and the illustrations really are illustrations. Some show details of construction we've only seen demonstrated by an expert seamstress. The sewing guide gives instruction in the basics of seams, hems, and handstitching. It also explains special techniques for calculating fabric lengths and mitering corners. But that's not all. It's an idea book full of projects any seamstress can use.