Happy Birthday Grove House :-)

Check out my new wearable advertisement

(though I’m not sure all the animals in my garden are looking for sewing lessons… oh well, it is really fun to wear.)

I’m not sure how many of folks read these periodic musings by a haphazard writer, but I am excited to sit down and share some reflections.  It has been just over a year since I held my first class at Grove House Sewing Studio.  Back then (oh so long ago) I was full of anticipatory emotions - hope that I could meet the needs and interests of this community, wonder about if it could work, and a bit of worry that I couldn’t answer all the questions that might come my way.  

I have now supported well over 100 sewers or sewists (whatever you feel like saying) and it has been a total joy (and reviews are thankfully positive).  In the studio, we all lose track of time and just sew.  The space is sometimes comfortably silent as everyone deep in focus, filled with laughter as we discuss the geometry of crotches (trust me there is a lot to think about when making pants or shorts), surprised with exclamations or groans as a difficult task is tackled or a mistake is made, or punctuated with a “YES!” as someone conquers a skill.  There are standing ovations, group-wide consultations on fabric and fit, and a mood of camaraderie and creativity.  

As this chilly spring progresses I have found that because I am so engrossed in sewing most days of the week, my “me made May” energy is being spent on supporting other sewer’s goals and digging through the weeds that have colonized my garden.  I have also spent a bit more time volunteering in the community.  However, last week I did put together a new pair of pants for myself that I am yet to feel good about (something is weird at the hips) and yet another pair of black pants for my son (who really only wears black pants).  I have been slowly working on a linen shorts jumpsuit for my daughter and I keep a quilt project nearby at home so I can meditatively hand quilt as I attempt (and fail) to try and shake my phone addiction.

But mostly this Me Made May is about this me-made business and what creative ways I can keep it fresh and fun for me and for all of you - including an August SEWING CAMP! Come spend a week sewing and see your skills soar!