Fact. As with many of my ideas, this one came from a casual conversation with some friends over a glass of wine, possibly in my kitchen I can't honestly remember. Maybe it was more than one glass. Hey ho!
Our comprehensive survey - four slightly tipsy women and their mates - concluded that many people have a sewing machine at home but haven't a Danny La Rue what to do with it. When one friend quipped "Wouldn't it be great if we there was a local expert who could teach us?', aaaaaand then they all stared in my direction, I thought "Actually, they might be on to something".
Add one flustered neighbour ringing my doorbell one evening who was having 'a bit of trouble' with her sewing machine. In a fit of thriftiness and blind optimism she had agreed to make the costumes for her children...all three ... for the school play...the next day.
I figured that it was time to don my proverbial sewing cape.
Never one to shy away from a new challenge (Flamenco style wedding dress with 14 metres of fabric, anyone?) I set about making plans.
I love teaching - I love textiles - and I LOVE teaching textiles. This seemed like a wonderful opportunity to combine the two without leaving my cosy home!
We'll chalk that up as a WIN.
I have never described myself as an 'expert' but I do know my way around a sewing machine. I like to think I have a way of working that gets the point across without it being (too) baffling and is fairly good fun. What's the point if it isn't?
Naturally we all started with a welcoming cup of tea. It's the law apparently.
My lovely clients were keen and enthusiastic and we had a LOT of laughs! They even did their homework!
Jo and Lea made a fabulous zipless cushion cover. Jo would like me to highlight the fact that she made the back panels match. On purpose. Honest!
- Christmas stocking complete with funky border, finished!
Kirsty made a Christmas stocking for one of her boys so successfully she's making another one as I write. So clever!
Now no self respecting Sewing Course would be complete without a congratulatory certificate. My ladies are ready to go and wield their talent as fully fledged Sewing Warriors!
I'm so PROUD of them! *sniff*
There is something really special about creating. That overwhelming sense of achievement - gained from doing something you never thought possible - takes some beating....in adults as well as children *turns death stare towards the current Education Secretary*
I raise my glass to Jo, Kirsty and Lea, my FIRST Sewing Warriors. May they share their zest for crafting with many more!
Sewing classes are popping up everywhere - as the combination of penny saving and new challenges kick in. If this whets your appetite, why not make finding a local sewing class your New Years Resolution?
You're WELCOME!
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