What do I love about me? My ability to create.
I have always been one to look at an object and automatically start to think about how it was made, and how I can re-create it.
I started my creating journey with the help of my Great Grandma and her patience to teach me. Every summer I would travel to down to California and she would teach me to embroider, crochet and hand sew. I loved it! I always went back home with so many ideas and projects that I had no clue where to start – I was overjoyed at my new talent!
My elementary school teacher new the importance of basic living and also taught sewing frequently. I made my first pillow when I was in 2nd grade and helped embroider quilt blocks when I was in 4th grade. I thought it was so fun and better yet; I was getting graded on it! Of course I aced them 😉
In high school I went “hippy” and started making my own clothing. If you are into the Phish scene then you will know exactly what I am talking about: hand made patchwork clothing.
(These are not my photos, but might as well have been! I borrowed them from Etsy)
I developed a passion and love for creating during my high school years. I cherished my sewing machine and was always sewing! Screw parties, I had clothes to make!
Even though I had a solid start to sewing basics, I self taught myself how to create and sew. I never picked up a pattern, took classes or asked for help. I did have a few sewing books for reference but it was all trial and error. The best way for me to learn is to do it, and keep perfecting it!
After I grew out of my “hippie” stage I started looking at the world of quilting. Quilting is so much different than sewing clothes! You have the be exact and precise or the entire creation will be wrong.
I couldn’t stand it! I hated all of the measuring, the cutting, the worry… but I stuck with it and started to LOVE it!
I have now created my own patterns for quilting that are made just for me and my brain. I have hard time understanding patterns for some reason… it has always been easier for me to look at a picture, deconstruct it in my head and write down my own interpretation. Sometimes it works and sometimes its a huge failure – only another reason to try again!
I must always be creating in my life. I do go without for periods of time but eventually I start to crave it.
But it goes beyond sewing: I love all kinds of art.
I love to oil paint, yet haven’t done it in years. Draw, scrapbook, knit, crochet, embroider, jewelry, journal, poetry, acting/drama. I have always been drawn to visually stimulating environments and events.
It will always be a part of me and I am so proud of my ability’s.
Here are some of my creations:
Now I sew for me, Jordan, family… and I do have an small online store. I would love to be paid to sew! I have always gravitated toward children’s items – even before J came along.
It’s a healthy hobby for me as it allows me to BE ME at all times. I feel more like myself than at any other time – needle and thread in hand.
Show yourself some love today and be proud of your abilities!
The Clean Eating Mama 