When I finished my basement a few years ago I had LOTS of flouresant fixtures put in , with multiple switches , so I can turn on various amounts.
When they were installing they called me to come look ... I am sure the electrician wanted to reduce the number of fixtures as it was really really Bright . I took one look and said ... that exactly what I want ... "its brighter than daylight". They thought I was nuts ... but I love it!
Do be careful with placement , as all center of the room fixtures will still create some shadowing at the perimeter of the room when working . Since most of us put our sewing machines on the wall plan for a fixture at the wall of that area. Also concider where your cutting area and ironing board will be located.