After nearly 30 years working, I decided to take a break and learn to do all the things I didn’t have time for. How many of us have that goal upon retirement? The first item on this crafting bucket list was to learn to sew, or re-learn it. I took Home Economics in the 7th grade and actually failed the sewing portion but thankfully I did pass the cooking part with a final grade of B.
This sewing ability, the art of it, runs in my family. Both my mother and aunt were brilliant at it. I wore my “F” for FAILURE at sewing like a scarlet letter and carried this shame all of my life. I was convinced I had no aptitude for it. But as in most things, all it takes is a good teacher and a desire to learn.
I have always wanted to learn to quilt. My friend Ann had heard about a class being offered in the area and she invited me to join her. The quilting class got me comfortable with using a sewing machine again. The teacher we had was encouraging and patient. I was so proud of my log cabin quilt in the beautiful batik colors I had chosen. It hangs in my home office and it reminds me that I can be creative and that I am not a failure after all. I love its calming colors. I am happy when I look at it even now, several years later.
The quilting class gave me confidence to want to try patterns again. I had always been intimidated by traditional sewing patterns with the all the tissue pieces. I think that is why I like Mary Mulari’s patterns so much. The first one I tried and continue to use to this day is her Church Lady Apron Pattern. I think I have sewn so many aprons that I have gone through three of the same pattern. I own several others of hers that I will try in the future. They are simple to follow. The instructions are very clear and the reversible apron is absolutely adorable and makes a wonderful gift. That fabric combinations are limitless. Full disclosure that any links I provide may earn me a commission at no additional cost to you.
