Earlier this year I switched to a new website provider. After 8 years of squarespace, I felt as if I needed a platform that offered a bit more automation and room to grow. Having very outdated website creation skills there is only so much I can do without having to take a deep dive into coding.
In recent years, I have found an increase in the number of books that are both fashion and sewing related that feature kids with black and brown skin. This expanded diversity not only allows kids the opportunity to see themselves in these stories but also helps broaden the perspective of all children by fostering their sense of empathy and connection with characters who might look different from themselves.
Read MoreIn Pattern Making, there are three types of sleeves; set-in, raglan and kimono. All other sleeve styles are developed from one of these three blocks.
However, in this era of globalization, it no longer feels correct to refer to this as a “kimono sleeve”. What then, is an appropriate name for a bodice where the sleeve is integrated into the design instead of a separate piece? “T-shape? Extended sleeve? Robe?
Read MoreRecently I was invited to sit down with Cathy Lewis of WHRV’s Hearsay With Cathy Lewis to talk about my work, my new book, Sew Bags: The Practical Guide to Making Purses, Totes, Clutches and More and what it is like teaching kids (and adults!) how to sew. Here is the podcast link for you to listen and join in the conversation.
Read MoreI teach sewing and design because I believe that everyone possesses some innate creative ability and once you tap into that and discover your passion, it can build confidence that flows into all aspects of life.
These past few weeks, I have had to take a deep dive into my confidence reserve.
As the publication of my book drew near, I knew that it was time to begin to organize a promotional book blog tour. In order for the book to sell, people have to know about it - right? By May, sheer panic set in. Besides the fact that I am terribly introverted and likely would never own a phone, let alone leave the house given the chance, I had to ask complete strangers to read my book and to (PLEASE!) make something from it and share it with the world.
Read MoreI was thrilled by the opportunity to sit down with Sandra Pennecke, of Inside Business, the business journal of The Virginian Pilot, and share a bit about Little Stitch Studio and the work that I do.
Read MoreLast weekend, I taught my first adult workshop of this year. Like with each workshop that I do with children, I learn something new. As I clean up after everyone leaves, I think about what went right during the time and also what I can do to streamline or improve the experience for everyone next time.
Read MoreIf learning to sew is one of your goals for this new year, I have just the classes for you.
Read MoreWould it surprise you to learn that the average piece of clothing is worn only 7 times before it is discarded? Seven times. When I was younger, and considering wether a purchase was “worth it”, I would calculate the Cost Per Wear- and use that number to decide how much to spend on an item of clothing. If I knew that I would only wear something 7 times, it would hardly be worth spending much on. Now a coat, sweater or dress that might be worn a few times a year for many years would be a different story. I have one grey cashmere cardigan that is fairly tattered by now, but it has been in constant seasonal rotation for twenty years. It might have cost me $100 back then, but overtime, just pennies per wear. A new pair of jeans might cost even more than that- but what if they are only worn for a single season? Do you understand my point?
Read MoreI'm excited to share a bit of the sewing workshop that I held at West Elm, VA Beach last weekend. Earlier this year, I heard that West Elm was looking for local crafters to feature. I sent an email introducing myself and telling a bit about what I do. The next thing I knew, we had a meeting and decided to schedule a Spring Sewing Workshop. Thrilled at the chance to collaborate, I went home and set to work designing a fun little project.
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