As we near the end of 2019, I’ve been reflecting on what I’ve accomplished this year. The after school club and holiday workshops have continued to flourish and the children have made some wonderful things. As well as honing their sewing skills, the children have had a chance to design and plan their work, learn new hand stitches and occasionally use the sewing machine. We have made a variety of things including drawstring bags, wall hangings, heart pictures, embroidered insects, pencil cases, coasters and decorations.
Alongside these classes, I have tutored a student studying GCSE textiles who hadn’t really used a sewing machine before. It has been interesting to work with an older student helping her understand the skills needed to create samples for her project work.
I have also completed some private work including some stunning sheer curtains, some loose chair covers, cushions both new and repairing some much loved old ones and some home accessories such as place mats and napkins. I have also been commissioned to make a number of items for people either for themselves or to give as gifts such as bags, make up bags and Christmas stockings.
Talking of Christmas, I was delighted to be asked back to create items for Christmas @SproutArts which had around 39 different artists and creators producing work for their Christmas market.
To round the year off, I was commissioned to make 50 shoe bags for an events company to give their clients as a Christmas gift. Although a huge number to make, I still felt I was able to take care and time with each one to make sure they were not rushed. The company were delighted with them and thought that their clients would be too.
So looking back, I can see how lucky I am to be able to fulfill my passion for sewing by making such a wide variety of different things. I love that I’m able to pass on my love and skills to other people particularly children who I have watched develop and improve their sewing over time.
I wonder what’s in store for 2020?