New Beginnings

Whilst sitting hand sewing a  Roman costume for my daughter a few months ago, I commented to my husband, "I could do this in 2 minutes if I had a sewing machine." The idea for my Christmas present was born and on December  25th 2015, I unwrapped a shiny new machine, a book on sewing projects some thread and some fat quarters.

 

 

I had learnt to sew many years ago, firstly at home from mum and then I  learnt dressmaking at school. I remember very well the sewing projects I made, starting with a simple top and wraparound skirt, then moving on to pyjamas. I also remember the excitement when I realised that with these new found skills, I no longer had to rely on the choices that were in the shops, I could start to craft my own clothes, based on my own tastes in fabric and style. Through my teenage years I spent many a happy afternoon, creating my own clothes, adapting or embellishing those I no longer wore and developing my dressmaking skills.

Sadly my departure to university (away from mum's sewing machine) then the move into full time work, marriage, children and family life meant that there was no time for sewing, apart from the occasional costume, repair or alteration, all by hand.

The excitement I have felt since getting my machine has been so real and palpable, although as yet unfulfilled as we have been busy entertaining and visiting family since Christmas Day. I have pored over websites for patterns and fabrics, read blogs avidly, and contemplated my first projects. I have purchased a pattern and some fabric and now can't wait to start.

I want to share this voyage of rediscovery, and hope that my renewed interest leads to some exciting results.