Sewing studio days begin again.
When I started fashion sewing again, about 15 years ago, I was thrilled to discover a national organization, the American Sewing Guild, with chapters all around the USA. There are chapters in major metropolitan areas and then more local neighborhood groups within that chapter. I was still working at the time and like many of you, did not know people who appreciated the art of sewing. So perhaps three times a month I would drive to meetings from 10 to maybe 30 miles away just to meet up with others who shared this passion. Over time I made friends who were interested in fashion sewing also, attended several national ASG sewing conferences and still love going to sewing retreats.
Now I'm retired and have more time to sew but I still need and want the social side of this hobby. I belong to two ASG chapters, the Fort Myers, FL one and the Northern VA one. Unfortunately the closest FL neighborhood group for me meets on an invconvenient evening. So last year I decided to start my own "sewing studio days" for any interested local friends. I sent an email to the creative, local sewers I know that I would have two days a month, from 10am-4pm, when I was going to be at home in my "studio." They are welcome to come, sew, bring patterns to fit, share ideas and questions. I have drinks but if you want lunch, bring a brown bag. What a hoot! Sometimes there were two of us, sometimes there were seven of us, all the time there was creativity, excitement and lots of help.
Now I think I know what was missing for me for so many decades. I learned to sew out of necessity and I felt almost apologetic for having home made clothes. I didn't even know there were sewing and tailoring classes....and would have doubted my abilities anyway. I had to unlearn that approach and focus on the fashion, friendship and camraderie I find among sewers (sewists?)
Yesterday sewing studio days resumed at my house. Here's the one friend who was able to attend. I cut out and made a muslin of Vogue 1100 in that dreadful twill above. I have a few adjustments to make and I'll be ready to cut it out of "good" fabric. Not sew lonely anymore, just happy for so lovely friendships new and old.
What a wonderful idea for a get-together! You're lucky to have the space to do it. So often one does need a helping hand at fitting, or even an opinion to move things along. Blogs are a wonderful way to connect with people, but face to face will always be better. Either way - it's so much more fun to share sewing, than to plug away by oneself.
ReplyDeleteOh I hope one day this winter, I have a chance to drive down for a studio day with you and your other sewing friends. I've looked for ASG in my area, and find nothing nearby. Booo. And I agree with you and Irene who say blogs are great, but FTF is better.
ReplyDeleteThe pattern you are making the muslin for looks very stylin... can't wait to see it made up.
What a lovely idea!
ReplyDeleteI would love to have a sewing group near me where I could get together with other women who love to sew. Blogs are a good way to connect with other people and I love sharing in what other people are making and doing.
ReplyDeleteI too would love to be able to have sewing friends nearby. Blogs are great, but there's a lot more to enjoy in person with people who share the same hobby and passions. I'm in North MS, NO ONE I know sews or appears to have any interest in doing anything with it. boo-hoo.
ReplyDeleteMartha