Today, I am sharing something very different from cardmaking for me.
Many years ago, my Dad bought me a second hand Singer
treadle sewing machine for a birthday present, so that I could have a go at making
clothes for myself, as back then in the late 60's I was a chubby teenager,
and there wasn't the variety of larger dress sizes in the shops as there are today.
Many years ago, my Dad bought me a second hand Singer
treadle sewing machine for a birthday present, so that I could have a go at making
clothes for myself, as back then in the late 60's I was a chubby teenager,
and there wasn't the variety of larger dress sizes in the shops as there are today.
I had really enjoyed needlework classes at school, so I managed to make myself
some A-line dresses with my machine, having help from an aunt who
was a also dressmaker and machinist.
Sadly, the machine was given away when we moved house and from
that time to now, I haven't touched another one.
Since watching all the series of The Great British Sewing Bee on television,
I have been really keen to have a go again.
Luckily one of my niece's was also interested to learn, and she found us a three week
course of beginner's sewing machine classes held in Brentwood, Essex at
Beautiful Things Craft and Sewing Classes
Claire, who owns the business and teaches not just sewing, but also knitting and
crocheting took six complete beginners, and managed very easily to teach us to
sew three items, using different techniques.
sew three items, using different techniques.
Firstly, a quilted box...
Secondly a tote bag...
and lastly a zipped cushion cover...
My niece and I loved everything about the classes, the friendly atmosphere in a
comfortable studio, with Claire who is a brilliant teacher.
Following the classes, I have ordered an electric sewing machine from Claire,
which I'm just waiting to arrive. After having lots of practice on it,
which I'm just waiting to arrive. After having lots of practice on it,
I can't wait to get started on some more projects!
Claire also runs online classes for those who perhaps are unable to attend
classes or live too far away. Those details can be found HERE
Thank you for visiting my blog today, I will be back on Wednesday with a card.
Janice x
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ReplyDeleteIt was a pleasure to teach you. Thank you so much for your lovely post.
ReplyDeleteFantastic makes Janice, I love the box especially. Looking forward to seeing what else you make with your new sewing machine when it arrives.
ReplyDeleteSue xx
Oh Janice, how wonderfully fun for you! Your projects are amazing and I am in love with the fabric you used to make the quilted box. I can't wait to see more projects from you when your new sewing machine arrives. Do share!! These are all marvelous!
ReplyDeleteAll three sewing projects are fantastic! I personally wouldn't have started with those for a beginning project but kudos to you and the instructor for stepping up! But then again I've worked with 7th-12th graders! :)
ReplyDeleteBeautiful sewing projects Janice.
ReplyDeletePam x
Wonderful sewing projects Janice, I have no talent in that area.
ReplyDeleteHugs Diane
FANTASTIC! I have a love/hate relationship with fabric, I would love to work with them but I think they hate my touch lol These are gorgeous. I love that print on your sweet little basket! I think you may be able to put lots of crafting items in your pretty tote....and perhaps that fab pillow will be sitting on your craft chair! So happy your Niece went with you too. This is a beautiful and FUN post! Love it!
ReplyDeleteSuper sewing projects Janice, I especially like the cushion cover - beautiful fabric.
ReplyDeletePauline - Crafting with Cotnob
x
Janice your projects look great, I really love the quilted box, I do enjoy sewing too, but my cardmaking has taken up most of my free time, glad you were able to find somewhere fun to take a class and that you were able to share that with your niece, always nice to have fun time together with family!
ReplyDeleteGorgeous creations, love the little quilted box. I hope you enjoy your refound sewing talent. Emmax
ReplyDeleteThree beautiful projects and love the idea of the quilted box
ReplyDeletecarol x
Super sewing projects, Janice. Sounds like you and your niece had a fun time at the classes. xx
ReplyDeleteOoooh this looks like fun! I'd love to have come had it not been a tad far for me. Love what you've made. Shabneez x
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