Looking back and looking forward
During the second lockdown in October, my business mentor (aka hubster!) suggested I look back at all of the lessons and customers I have taught to date. I was amazed to discover that I have taught 78 different students in the last 3 years for a total of 892 hours! Yes, I went back through all of my diaries and added them up and yes, it took a long time!
The lessons have ranged from getting a brand new sewing machine out of the box and starting with the basics, all the way to shirt making masterclasses and lining a coat. I've taught patchwork, quilting, embroidery, toymaking, all manner of cushion covers, fancy dress costumes, copying your own favourite dress, sewing with stretch fabrics, sewing with wovens, different zip insertions, buttons and buttonholes, even hen nights (knickers!) and birthday parties. We've made baby clothes, toddler dresses, jeans, pyjamas, hoodies, sweatshirts, t-shirts, joggers, masks (so many masks!), we've upcycled and even made costumes to run the London Marathon in (2019). I even went international this year with my first student learning in France via Zoom. If you'd told me I'd be teaching in another country at the start of 2020 I wouldn't have believed you! We've laughed together, we've (not!) cried together - even though we might have felt very frustrated with that zip! We've made friends and found our tribe of fellow creatives - and I've loved every minute.
I just want to say THANK YOU. For dipping your toe into the sewing waters. For spending time learning with me. For all of your kind comments on the pics I post on social media (and for my wonderful family for patiently taking those photos again and again). For giving Zoom a go - and sticking with me when the tech failed (yes, I was still on speaker). I am proud of each and every one of you and what you have achieved.
My After School Sewing Club has gone from strength to strength and one of the girls has secured a place at a London Fashion College. They are fearless in their creativity and they keep me feeling young. Once we open up again in person I would like to start a new beginners After School Sewing Club so do get in touch if you would like to join (age 8+)
The ladies who started my Thursday Crafting Classes on Zoom in April have also been a highlight of the year for me. We started with embroidered felt easter eggs and seaside bunting and ended the year making a wrap dress! Now, that is what I call a sewing journey. I've loved seeing their confidence grow and their beautiful makes on our little Facebook group. I have also picked up some handy fabric shop suggestions from them - learning works both ways.
I'm starting the New Year on Zoom again - with classes to make a simple shift top and a v-neck blouse. Both of these classes are suitable for those at the beginning of their sewing journey (although some basic sewing machine skills are required). The first class starts on 7th January 10.30-11.30am and I would love to see you. Please do get in touch if you would like more info.
2020 is a year we won't forget in a hurry. But I think that this strange and difficult time we're in now is just an 'in between time' (a bit like the limbo between Christmas and New Year). I am excited to see all of my wonderful customers again and hope we can all get together in real life before too long.
Happy Sewing and Happy New Year!
Jo xx
