Why I Still Make Clothing
Posted by Annette on Thursday, March 22nd, 2012
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When I was young, sewing was a fairly utilitarian thing and still taught in schools. I didn't have to wait, though, as my mother had me start sewing buttons on doll clothes when I was a toddler. From there I progressed to sewing my first dress when I was 10, dived in to a project on my own at 11 (which I ruined!), then received my first sewing machine as a gift at 12. Yep - it was a Singer. (I have since progressed to a wonderful Pfaff!) In later years, sewing became a creative pursuit for most of us and quilting became the usual craft that was practiced. But, I kept making clothes. Do I always save money? No. Overseas labor costs and mass production now make "store bought" clothing quite economical in most cases, although quality is often sacrificed. We did save a bundle making my daughter-in-law's wedding veil last Spring and there are still many ways to save by making your own great quality clothing for special occaisions. But that is not why I still make clothes.
Currently on my sewing table: Simplicity 2447 and September Light designed by local artist, Lida Enche for In The Beginning fabrics. I sew clothing because I LOVE doing it. Did I say that loud enough? I LOVE MAKING CLOTHES. In the privacy of my sewing room, my life is transformed from mom, wife and employee to SEWING DESIGNER. I cannot think of a more fulfilling transformation. I love picking out fabric, finding a pattern, planning the end result and then modifying it along the way. I never follow the pattern exactly because I don't have to - I AM the designer! The process is magical. Lengths of fabric, tissue paper pattern pieces and a vision in my mind all come together to create a garment I will love forever. The joy of wearing something I made is indescribable. I feel like a fairy princess and I am always watching for when the red carpet will suddenly roll out in front of me. I am certain that everyone knows and admires what I have made. Silly? Nope. This is my "escape" of choice and it has a very good end. It's healthy and more economical than anything else I could do to revive my creative spirit and, as I said, I LOVE it! Give it a try! Maybe you have horrid memories of the shift you made in Junior High. Maybe everyone has told you that you have to sew a certain way. Maybe no one else in your life makes clothes. Maybe you're afraid of fit. But, this is your life and your dream and you can make anything you want any way that you want. Be bold! Head to one of our stores, buy fabric, pick out a pattern and see what you can create. It may not be perfect the first time, but enjoy the journey and keep at it. We have marvelous teachers and lots of skilled sewing staff members who would be glad to help and I'll be SEW proud of you. I bet I'll be able to hear your joy loud and clear wherever you are! Let me know how it goes! ~ Annette |
Comments
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Thank you, Annette, for spotlighting my fabric collection in your post! I can't wait to see what it looks like when you are done. Happy sewing!by Lida Enche on 23 March 2012 at 4:36 p.m.
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You are SO encouraging, keep it up!!!!by Julie on 22 March 2012 at 4:04 p.m.
