Hi, Stacey here today to tell you about why I sew. Honestly, this should really be titled, “Why Don’t I Sew” because I could probably ramble on for a book’s length about why I do sew.
1. Zippered Dragon Vest 2. Schoolboy Vest 3. Angry Bird Backpack 4. Cowlneck Bimma Sweater
I started sewing to keep my creative juices flowing after an abrupt life change from full-time teacher to stay-at-home mom as an expat in a foreign country. After having an entire school’s worth of teachers to interact with each day, as well as my own students, the stay-at-home life felt extremely isolating. In those first years of living overseas, it felt like my entire life revolved around wiping snotty noses, changing diapers, and meeting the demands of caring of a family. Add the stress of a new culture and language and I was begging for a creative outlet. Some thing that was wholly mine and sewing fit the bill.
1. Prepster Pullover 2. Bear Hoodie 3. Hulk Inspired Convertible Pants 4. Winter Wonderland Collection
Things are a little different now. Now that two boys are off to school full time and one is in half day Kindergarten, I have a little more free time. I still sew as a creative outlet but it also fills a burning desire to learn more and perfect the sewing skills I’ve acquired. I love the act of taking a piece of fabric, designing a garment, and molding it into my own vision. There is something so affirming about creating a wearable garment. I gain a feeling of accomplishment from each and every piece I finish and even more so when I come across something that’s been a challenge (aka; the seam ripper appeared a LOT.)
1. Bimma Sweater and Harem Pants 2. Lillestoff Dragon Vest 3. Dachshund Pajamas 4. Inverted Triangle T-shirt
The contacts and friends I’ve made also drive my sewing. It’s wonderful to have found a community of women with the same interests, whose own projects inspire me to continue pushing myself as a seamstress. I add things to try to my list of things to sew every week- doubly so when it’s Kid’s Clothes Week.
Sewing is one of the great passions in my life. It’s something that can break me out of a funk and always challenges me. Sewing makes me happy and that, truly, is the most important reason I sew.
How about you? Why do YOU sew? Do you have trouble finding ready to wear clothing that fits well? Do you sew for a sense of stress relief? Do you sew for your business or because it makes you happy to give handmade gifts? I want to know. Why do YOU sew?
