Sew Comforting

Ever since my children were born I had wanted to learn how to sew. I remembered my grandmother sewing and my mother did as well some when I was a child. My grandmother had to stop as I got old enough to become interested because she had a condition called Macular Degeneration that affected how she could see. My mother just didn't have the time to sew anymore let alone teach me. As the years passed I kept thinking off an on about how I wanted to learn to sew. My mom passed away when I was 22 so as I got older learning from her wasn't an option. I was a single mom of two and didn't have the time or money to learn and I had pretty much decided it was something I wasn't going to learn.

I finally bought a machine when my kids became teens and figured with the internet I could learn by watching videos online. Much to my dismay I wasn't successful. So I stored that machine away and allowed it to collect dust. A couple years later I had finished college and one day the community college booklet came in the mail with continuing education courses and there on the back cover was an ad for a sewing class that met on saturdays for 6 weeks and was only $41! I decided that clearly it was meant to be. I had the weekends off and they had always been during the week in the past. I had a friend from work who also wanted to learn so we signed up together for the class.

On day one we walked in with our iced coffee from Starbucks and machines along with the supplies from the supply list that had been sent to our email before the first class met. We were greeted by the sewing teacher and she radiated such a positive energy and warmth. She was tall and lean and a personality that fit her tall stature.

By the end of the six weeks I knew how to sew. Of course being a good sewist takes time and effort, but I learned the basics and the foundation I needed to continue to learn. I also gained a friendship with my sewing teacher who still encourages me. I've now been sewing for a few years and I still wouldn't say I've completely mastered sewing, but I have improved and and continue to learn new techniques. I battled with self confidence issues ever since I had been in an abusive relationship, and each time I finish a project it helps my confidence to be boosted. I've since upgraded to a more fancy sewing machine and I recently added an embroidery machine to the mix.

There is something comforting about the process. I start with long flat pieces of fabric, iron the wrinkles out, cut it into flat shapes and create beautiful things I can share or gift to others. I hate ironing in any other scenario, but when it comes to sewing there's something about it that brings a bit of peace to my mind.

If you're struggling with self esteem, anxiety, or many other things try out a hobby and if there's something you want to learn don't wait! Just jump right in! You may surprise yourself with what you can accomplish.