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Why do you sew?
Why do you sew?
I mentioned last week that I went on a little writing retreat.
I packed up our mazda with a week’s worth of food, a bottle of wine, some dark chocolate, and my laptop and booked myself into a teeny little wooded cottage. It was magical, and I plan to do it at least a few times a year now.
While I was there, I did more than just write. I did a lot of thinking – about you guys.
I thought about what a diverse group of people we are. We have girls in high school reading this who are just starting out. We have women in their 80s who have been sewing for many decades. We have single women in college. We have moms. We have women living in big cities, and women living on rural farms.
But what brings us all together is the simple hobby of sewing. Why?
Because here’s what I realized: We’re all going way against the grain here.
Clothes are cheap and plentiful, or at least they can be. Most people are perfectly happy to shell out a few bucks and have someone else do all that labor. It is much cheaper, at least in terms of time but also often in money, to buy something produced overseas in a factory.
But we don’t. Why?
I know why I love sewing. In fact, I’ve been thinking about it a lot and am writing a whole separate blog post about that.
But given how different we are, I want to hear from you. Why do you sew? How does it improve your life? How does it make you feel?
PS: Maddie is holding a little giveaway for The Colette Guide to Sewing Knits right now, so you may want to pop over for a quick entry!
Comments
Danica
April 29, 2014 #
It’s fun! I’m too poor to buy all the clothes I would like to wear and I thought that I could just make them. I didn’t realize that nice fabric costs, too, but certainly not as much as the styles I make if I were to buy them rtw. I figured that if people used to make all their clothes all the time, it wouldn’t be impossible to learn. Thanks to the internet, blogs, and books, I’m progressing in the craft.
Also, I wanted to make tunic-style dresses to wear in the desert where I live. Where to buy one? Oh, I can just make one now!
Darlene
April 29, 2014 #
I sew because I have have recently developed an allergy to synthetic fabric. Haven’t figured out which synthetics yet, there are so many! Definitely polyester. Which is funny as I am a child of the 70s! So I either buy very expensive natural fabrics or sew. It’s very difficult to find a lined garment where the lining is not synthetic. Cotton is my saviour!
Sarai
May 6, 2014 #
That’s so true. Even expensive clothes often have synthetic linings. It makes no sense. I was pawing a $700 Kate Spade coat last year, and the lining was acetate.
tequilamockingbird
April 29, 2014 #
Echoing what other people have already said. Fit is a big reason- I have a build that is plastered all over almost every form of media, but is almost impossible to find modern RTW clothing that fits and doesn’t cost a mint. Regular sizes are too large, junior sizes are too short, and most assume a more straight up-and-down build.
Ditto again on the ethical concerns. Sewing has made me really appreciate just how much time and effort it actually takes to take a piece of fabric to a finished garment, and I honestly couldn’t afford to pay ANYONE what their labor is actually worth in doing so (even adjusting for median local incomes and all of that). Opting out of fast fashion entirely won’t solve the problems created by it, or the problems contributing to it, or the needs met by it in a twisted kind of way, but sewing is one way that I can make it slightly less profitable for enormous industries to exploit people (fabric and notions sources notwithstanding), much like growing my own produce when possible.
As for the general consumerism aspect, I also find that sewing takes a LOT of the pressure off. For the longest time, I had a closet full of things that I only sorta kinda liked, because the whole nature of RTW is not one that encourages taking time to think over whether you really want that particular garment in its entirety. If you see something in a store that you like, and don’t immediately buy it, then there is a very good chance that it won’t be there later on- they may run out of it in your size (if they ever carried your size to begin with), they might sell out entirely, and no matter what they will almost certainly discontinue it soon. It puts you in competition with other women for a limited supply of things that you might not even actually want once the whole demented easter egg hunt that is clothes shopping is over. With sewing, instead of the ‘I’d better grab this before someone else does’ mindset, you get to take as much time as needed to figure out EXACTLY what you want a garment to be, down to every last detail, and then make it happen. Sewing can be a way of taking control back from an industry calculated to drive your choices. I’ve also found that it allows me to make money a less important part of my clothing choices. Instead of being limited to buying the best clothing you can afford, you can spend significantly less on a good-quality fabric (unless you’re making something like a a gigantor fabric-eating ballgown out of silk) and then just invest the time needed to do excellent work to transform it into something exceptional. Of course, this doesn’t make as much sense if you hate the actual sewing process or see it as just a means to an end, but if you find it relaxing and inspiring and interesting and all-around rewarding as I do, then it’s win-win.
Unlike some other people here, I LOVE trends, but not necessarily trends that are currently trendy or the completed garments that incorporate them. Sewing allows you to take what you do love about something and leave behind everything that you don’t and make it genuinely yours.
AND it gives you the knowledge to be able to save much-loved garments from the scrap-heap the moment something rips.
AND is just generally a wonderfully expressive creative outlet, which can be very freeing if you have strong opinions on clothing.
AND its one of those rare pursuits that can be both a quiet, meditative, solitary activity, or something sociable with others. Sewing parties are pretty much the greatest; something about sewing together just seems to inspire so much cooperation instead of the competitiveness that dominates many group activities.
AND AND AND. Completely different relationship with your clothing. Compliments and awe from others are nice perks, too!
So for me, sewing is one of the most well-roundedly positive things that I’ve ever taken part in.
Kriss
April 29, 2014 #
I just love to sew! It is so rewarding to make something, for yourself or for someone special. Being able to make daughters and daughter in laws, sister in laws and special friends wedding dresses or bridesmaids dresses just how they want feels so great. It’s all good.
Mary
April 29, 2014 #
I sew because I became more of myself when I discovered it. Suddenly I had an interest in clothing and fashion like I never have before, but it wasn’t about what I wore or how I looked, but the process of how I got to that look. It was a way to express myself that I’d never experienced before.
Debra Sutton
April 29, 2014 #
I love to sew. I love pretty fabric. I love being inspired by magazines and pinterest and blogs. Some of my creations turn out and I wear them happily and receive compliments for them…however….
I just came back from Paris, I was there for two weeks on my own just cruising around. No monuments to rush to(I’ve been there 4 times). I just wanted to look in the shops and sit in cafes and parks. I walked around the Marais where so many designers have lovely little boutiques and beautifully made things. Just gorgeous. I went to a shop called La Droguerie which was divine. It had some lovely fabric, patterns, trims, buttons etc and wool. It made me feel inadequate.
While I was there I bought some things at shops like Uniqlo and Cos.These things were well made and really affordable prices. When I came home I threw out a lot of my clothes and I’ve stopped sewing. I have lost heart. I need to get inspired again.
I think my sewing needs refinement..better finishes.
I hope my love of sewing comes back. Maybe I need to do a course on finishing garments properly. Does anyone else have this problem?
PS I AM IN AUSTRALIA.
francesca
April 30, 2014 #
Your Comment… *try taking a course on Craftsy.com – there are loads. and make sure you press your sewing constantly as you work. I’ve seen so much badly pressed stuff – bumpy hems etc – which could have been nice with a good pressing.
Courtney Ostaff
April 30, 2014 #
What francesca said. Good seam finishes are often all about the ironing (and corresponding pre-washing). When I started getting serious about my sewing, I bought vintage pressing hams, and wooden pressing bars. That, plus an ironing cloth and some good starch, made a world of difference.
Mons
April 29, 2014 #
Holy!! This post sure has lengthy comments!!
Well, I really just want to say learning to sew changed my life. I used to be very insecure about my size and really just mostly wore boy shirts because I couldn’t find something that fitted propperly. Going to stores was a nightmare!!! Plus my dad was always commenting on how tight my clothing was when I was wearing something I thought was nice…
Sewing gave me the opportunity to discover myself.
s j kurtz
April 29, 2014 #
There are a lot of wonderful answers here, and I’m doing a lot of head nodding in agreement, but yours sums it up.
“Sewing gave me the opportunity to discover myself.”
So true. Thanks.
Laurie
April 29, 2014 #
Wow! So many inspiring comments…I could read them all night! I was introduced to sewing when I was in high school in a home ec class (I’m sure I’m revealing my age here!). I loved the creative process, but lacked the patience and support to continue. I tried sewing my kids’ clothes when they were babies, but not much out there for baby boys in the 80’s. Due to lack of time and support, I let it go for a long time, using my machine only when necessary, like sewing hems and repairing seams.
I was introduced to quilting about 5 years ago and my love for sewing was reignited. I love the colors and textures of fabric, and enjoy imagining what the final project will look like. And oh, the possibilities!
I am now beginning to sew my own clothes, for real this time. Like so many others who have commented, I am a 50-something woman who is most definitely not skinny and also short, so it is nearly impossible to find clothes that fit. I love the idea of making clothes that fit AND that I like! What a concept!
Sewing is relaxing and frustrating, and amazingly rewarding. I still get a huge thrill and great satisfaction when I look at a final project that I created and think: “I actually made that!” It’s great to have this skill, even if I’m not a professional!
Thank you for bringing this topic to the forefront. Clearly you have tapped into something that really speaks to the creative energies of so many!
Kristen
April 29, 2014 #
I’ve sewn for different reasons at different times in my life.
When I was a child, sewing was something my brother and I learned from my grandma. My brother liked the idea of making his own fun pillowcases. I loved the process of picking out a Barbie doll pattern, cutting out the pieces, sewing it together, and creating something new. As I grew older, I got rid of most of my dolls, but I’ve kept the outfits I remember making with my grandma.
During my late teens and early 20s, it was about creating costumes. I wanted to dress up with my friends for anime conventions. Nowadays it’s easier to find pre-made costumes, but back then you had to make it yourself! I also made the occasional curtain or craft for my mom.
Nowadays, I sew because I want clothes that reflect my style and fit me. Like some of the people have commented before me, it can be hard finding clothes for tall people, especially in larger sizes. Many sites carry tall pants or jeans, but not skirts! I have so many skirts that I love the style or pattern, but not the length.
I imagine as I grow older, my reason for sewing will change yet again! I love that this is one hobby I will never grow too old for.
Stacey Williams
April 29, 2014 #
What a great question – I love hearing why other people sew, everyone has a different reason or combination of reasons. I started sewing about 5 or 6 years ago but I was raised by sewers so it is something I have always been around – perhaps it was inevitable!? I started sewing because I have a tricky to fit body shape and was sick of cheap clothes that never fit right or were never available in the right colour! This is still one of my main motivations to sew but it has grown to be so much more than this. Now I also sew because it brings me joy and a sense of mastery, something that is essential to my well being. Plus, this hobby is something I share with many female relatives and friends and sewing is a way for me to connect with these loved ones, especially my beloved grandma and mum. For me Sewing = Love! OXOX
Penny hooper
April 29, 2014 #
I love the options sewing gives you and the fact that I can confidently walk down the street knowing mo one else is wearing the same thing I am. I just love sewing, I love inspiring friends and family to also sew just like my mother did for me.
Jennifer
April 29, 2014 #
I sew for a few practical reasons. I can get clothes that really fit properly, and that can be simple and yet beautiful because they are nicely shaped. I can also build a wardrobe to suit my taste, rather than to be on trend, and hence have clothes which last far longer because they don’t go ‘off trend’ so fast.
At times in my life I sew because I need to cultivate skills beyond career skills. It’s so easy to become limited by what I ‘do’ for a job, but I am so much happier when I feel broadly competent in other areas of life. Right now I’m between studying/jobs and in a slow and waiting period, but sewing has helped me to feel that this time off is still productive, and that even without exercising my career skills I can engage in something skilled and useful.
Sewing is also valuable to me because it teaches a kind of love for the finished garment which isn’t predicated on price or even ‘how good it makes me look’. Rather sewing makes me more able to value my clothes as the product of labour (my own included!), and to value them for the stories attached to when I made them, where I obtained the materials and where they came from.
And as others have also said, it provides a feeling of continuity with past generations in my family – practically all the women. I have some sewing supplies that are inherited, and so many skills I learned from others. Even though my life is vastly different from my grandmother’s, sewing is one way of participating in an experience we both share, despite the changing decades.
shiree dyson
April 29, 2014 #
Sewing gives me life! Thats why I sew it makes me feel connected to those who came before me. I love the art of making, I love building and I love construction all those loves fall under sewing.
I being in the zone of making, often times it the process that most excites me and not the final piece. I do enjoy those moments when at some point during the day I look down at the outfit I am wearing and realize, hey I made everything I have on my body, that feels awesome In those moments I usually kick my walk up a notch and walk a little taller.
Izy
April 29, 2014 #
I started to sew because I had clothing which needed mending. Then I started to make aprons as gifts for friends & family. It was enjoyable to apply 3 dimensional thinking, it provided my mind with a creative outlet.
Now as I get better I sew to make garments that fit properly. It feels good to put something on that moves with my frame. Likewise dress modern classic according to where I am in life personally & professionally.
Laura Lee
April 29, 2014 #
I started sewing two years ago because my life had changed and I had to find something to cope with a medical condition. It changed my life. Not my medical condition, the sewing. There is part of me that loves the fact that I am independent of trends, the mall, and what other strangers are telling me to wear but the bigger part is this. I adore fabric. I love the differences in texture, smell, stretch, color. I am crazy about patterns, not only pre made or trying my hand at tweaking my own. From the process of unfolding a piece of fabric, carefully pressing it and laying out the pattern…all the way to seams, facing, hems, zippers and elastic, I am intoxicated. The sheer number of variations possible on even one item is endless, as evidenced by the beautiful submissions on your flickr group. From cotton to silk, large or small I just look at the smile on everyone’s face and I can see the same thing. A way to uniquely express who we are and experience an empowered sense of joy along the way.
Nicoletta
April 29, 2014 #
why I sew? good question! I started for fun, with my granma like 10 years ago and I’ve always loved dresses. I think I was charmed by the diy method, the fact you could have what you really want and not what everybody else had. And I feel sewing is one of those skills do need to evolve and stay with us for a long time: having someone else doing what we are supposed to do is comfortable, but it leaves you completely lost when you need something.
Paola
April 30, 2014 #
I started sewing for myself a few years ago in my early 40s. No clothes purchase I have ever made has been as satisfying as the experience of conceiving of and producing an item of clothing. None, ever. My clothes are not perfect by any means, but the means of acquiring them I find more affirming than the experience of shopping, where you are forced into a box that some corporation wants to put you in. Hate that. That’s why I started sewing, and that’s why I will continue to sew.
Sarah
April 30, 2014 #
I learnt to sew in my early teens but I didn’t start really sewing for myself until 2 years ago.
I became involved in a consumer rights movement which criticised a company for releasing a product which wasn’t what was promised in the preorder. The experience shone a light on the way businesses deflect criticisms by hiding behimd sales stats. I realised that the only way to influence poor business practice is to stop spending money. I chose to sew as a result because I decided slave labour wasn’t something I could passively support.
This coincided with a dissatisfaction with the fit of RTW. I’m petite and pear shaped trying to establish myself in a corporate career, I can’t afford to wear ill fitting clothing or pay for a tailor.
I know sewing isn’t a perfect solution, fabric manufacturers undoubtedly use similar labour, but I’m removing a link from the chain and I strongly believe that conscientious fabric manufacturers will become common as sewing gains popularity.
Well fitting clothes and sumptuous natural fabrics are awesome benefits to making a stand against slave labour.
Louise K.
April 30, 2014 #
Sewing for me is a kind of mindfulness. It takes concentration and focus to make patterns and sew, but there’s also a lot of room for thinking, or rather not thinking and just observe all the thoughts that pass by in my mind.
If I’m sad or stressed out, I can’t sew, then I knit. It’s easier to do and it takes up less brain capacity so to speak. Sewing makes me happy and I love all the items I’ve made over the years. They are unique and express me as I am. I’m proud I can sew and of all the things I’ve made. Sewing is fun :)
Emma
April 30, 2014 #
I ask myself this question all the time! It still surprises me that I love sewing and knitting because no one else in my family does! I think I love it so much because it’s such a contrast to my day job (I work in a hospital). I love that it allows me to be creative and achieve things that are tangible.
Sien
April 30, 2014 #
I started sewing because they don’t seem to make skirts long enough to cover my bum anymore. I was pleasantly surprised when I picked it up so quickly, even without classes. It is also a lot more rewarding to be complimented on something you made vs. something you only bought.
Another reason I started sewing is so I could help out the costume department of my show choir since we have a very limited budget. Seeing my creations up on stage is immensly satisfying.
Laheeb
April 30, 2014 #
Your post really got me thinking , I always thought that sewing is something I was created with. I was born with a love to sew. Never influenced by anybody. Nobody in my family is crafty or creative. After much thinking I concluded:
1- I love sewing because I have a creative mind that is unable to look at things in a flat form.
2- it has a calming effect and gives me the sense of accomplishment that nothing else does
3- the idea that I can have whatever I want whenever I want and at the price that I like gives me the sense of control and gratification. Let’s rephrase it: I see a piece of clothing on a fashion show I can’t afford it in real life but I can find a similar fabric, pattern and have my own with added touches to suite my taste and create something that is as unique but mine and on my rules ” pretty controlling hah”
4- it really makes me different in a good way and I don’t look at myself as a consumer .
5- I love the challenge and the process specially when things aren’t going right and I leave it to think about it and return with a light bulb over my head and a smile on my face.
Helen
April 30, 2014 #
I think I sew for two reasons: one meaningful, one shallow.
The shallow one, is that I’m picky. I have quite specific ideas of what I want in clothes and have come to despise shopping, as I always end up with garments that are ‘fine, I suppose’. I came to sewing out of a desire to alter clothes I already had, then discovered that I could also make my whole garments myself without much more difficulty.
The meaningful (?) reason, is that I love feeling that I can do things myself, skilfully and effectively. It’s the same reason I love to garden, do my own home repairs, cook and make my own beauty products. Inherent in all those skills is a lot of knowledge that I feel robbed of when I palm them off to someone else. And I get a great sense of wonder when I learn just how much work, concentration and intelligence goes in to making, say, a wooden desk by hand.
Blogless Anna
April 30, 2014 #
I fall asleep at night thinking about sewing… patterns, fabric, making plans, considering the makes & words of the fabulous online sewing community. My wandering thoughts are filled with creativity and fun rather than angst, anxiety, hatred, personal problems and global issues. Sewing gives me the chance to block out the unwanted and to focus on all the things I love about life.
Joanne
April 30, 2014 #
I can’t really remember why I started sewing (It was only last year!) but Sewing Bee was on the TV and I thought it might be nice to try, fast forward 12 months and I have become completely obsessed.
It has given me a confidence I never knew I needed, in every aspect of my life not just sewing. Must be something to do with being able to MAKE something, I don’t actually care that half of the stuff I have made so far doesn’t even look right, the process of making is why I do it.
Also I wouldn’t say that I have any particular ‘body issues’ but I used to try on RTW and feel so disappointed as if it were my body that was the problem, now I try it on and can immediately pinpoint where it doesn’t fit, not because my body is ‘wrong’ but because the clothing is wrong. I am sure we all know how good that can make you feel! I would even go as far as saying every teenage girl should learn how to sew, just for the body confidence it gives you, I am no longer a size 10, I am a set of complex measurements that change regularly and that is absolutely fine by me.
I often try RTW stuff on now just to remind me how well my sewing is coming along, FBAs are my new best friend and they don’t do those in RTW.
Elle
April 30, 2014 #
1) My mom sews (retired Home Ec. teacher, actually) and since I’ve moved away from home as an adult, getting to ask her opinion and talk fitting adjustments and fabric shopping on the phone has made us feel closer.
2) I like being able to make the EXACT clothing items I want. I remember being in college and searching what felt like the whole internet for a long sleeved hunter green knit dress and coming up dry. Now I can make one if I want to (and I might in the fall).
3) I like the idea of voting with my dollars. If I’m not spending as much or any money on fast fashion, maybe I can help change the world and inspire more people to shop ethically or improve conditions for sweatshop laborers the world over. A drop in the bucket but still a drop.
Katie Emma
April 30, 2014 #
I enjoy the process of sewing, and I feel a great sense of pride when I can wear something I’ve made that fits well and matches my sense of style. I’m still new to sewing and while it’s frustrating to not have things turn out perfectly, I love that there’s so much to learn, and having aha! moments are so great.
Deanna
April 30, 2014 #
I think part of it for me was the challenge (and it is still very challenging, need to work at it more to get better at it), but also the lovely fabrics out there, especially in my favorite fabric store in Duluth, MN, Hannah Johnson Fabrics. Those bright and exciting colors speak to me.
Your patterns make it fun!
Susan
April 30, 2014 #
I hated sewing when I had to take it in high school. Ugh, the ugliest skirt ever, and who wore skirts in the 70’s? After graduating from college in the early 80s I couldn’t find a job and had to move back in with my parents. My mom sewed and we had a fine fabric shop just down the street. I took tailoring classes there and learned to love sewing. I am an engineer and the whole process appealed to me. Then, I went back to school and to work and stopped sewing. Once I had my second child, a girl, I started sewing again because clothes that I liked for her were just too darn expensive. I had to buy a dress for her and they were either cheap, pink and sparkly, or lovely and expensive. I spent $40 for a lovely little corduroy dress that I knew she would out grow in a couple of month. But, I took it home, (she usually wore her brothers hand-me-downs and people kept thinking she was a boy before I started sewing for her!) figured out it was an easy dress to sew, got out my used Bernina that my mother bought for $50 and started sewing again. Now I make custom coats for people now that my clothes closet is full. I love making fun innovative clothing that fits. I often reuse pieces that I sewed in the past, or buy something from a used clothing store and restyle it.
It keeps me tuned in with my manufacturing past but taps into my artistic side. I love it and get lots of compliments on my clothing.
Catherine from Canada
April 30, 2014 #
Why do I sew?
My sister and I had a great conversation about this after my first visit to Mood while visiting her in NY. My sister is talented and creative, a successful advertising company owner, with an art degree. She is always beautifully and uniquely dressed, her homes are beautiful. She sewed all her clothes in high school while I was doing the jeans and work boots thing, but hasn’t done any sewing for years.
Yet, except for a brief flirtation with some saffron wool, she had no interest in the fabrics and the possibilities at Mood, while I only stopped when I couldn’t carry any more (and just KNEW I’d have a heck of a time getting it all in my luggage!)
We decided and agreed that it was a difference between process and outcome. I’m more about the process, she’s more about the outcome. I enjoy the creative process of matching pattern to fabric, of tweaking the fit and finish to make it truly me and mine, of spending the hours slowly bringing a vision to life. Outcome is important to me – I want/need clothes to wear, but it wouldn’t be as satisfying without the process.
Whereas my sister enjoys the creative process of, I guess, assembling a vision from finished parts, of sketching and planning what she wants – be it landscaping, an ad campaign or an outfit – then putting the pieces together, and often, having someone else do the work. She doesn’t need the process to enjoy the outcome.
And I think that’s the difference between all sewists and our sisters.
We make a Renfrew, they buy a t-shirt from Target, or Talbots or whatever. We both have a t-shirt.
We buy the fabric on sale, and re-use a TNT pattern. They buy an inexpensive t-shirt from Gap or AE. We’ve probably spent the same $, we both have a t-shirt.
Unique style, fit and value can be had, if you’re willing to pay for it. I pay with hours, my sister pays with $$. We both have a t-shirt.
Anyway, that’s my take on it; process and outcome. (and a growing list for my next Mood trip!)
Michael
April 30, 2014 #
I was at Mood Fabrics last week. I spent two hours buying shirting alone. Now to fire up the Brother from another mother and get busy rather than just admiring the lovely fabric in my stash.
Courtney Ostaff
April 30, 2014 #
Yes! You are so right: “it was a difference between process and outcome”
Sarai
May 6, 2014 #
I totally agree, it’s all about the process for me.
Part of that is the self-discovery that comes with it. Each time I make something, it feels like a fresh experiment with my own style and identity.
Shopping just doesn’t do that for me.
Kate Hampshire
April 30, 2014 #
What a fabulous thread. I have spent ages reading everyone else’s thoughts and probably can’t offer anything new, but my sewing is a form of therapy. I love hiding myself in my sewing room at night after a stressful day at work and creating something magical. I have always hated buying anything if I could make it, cakes, meals, clothes, even to the extent of growing my own fruit and vegetables. Sometimes I get all my fabric stash out and look at it all, refold it, and put it back- so comforting!
I can’t wait to retire so I can do much more sewing and indulge myself. I have just decided to have 12 months without buying any clothes for ethical reasons, but it’s more the challenge I shall enjoy. It certainly won’t be a hardship.
Michael
April 30, 2014 #
And a few guys, don’t forget. My very first attempt at making a shirt was courtesy of you and Peter Lappin of male pattern boldness. So I have your book, mainly for techniques, and I read your hints and your links and I thank you. Brava!
Sarai
May 6, 2014 #
That’s awesome, Michael! I love hearing from the guys. I’d love to hear from more men about how and why they started to sew.
Courtney Ostaff
April 30, 2014 #
1) I enjoy it.
2) I like the custom fit.
3) It’s a relatively fast way to feel productive. (vs, say, knitting, or learning a foreign language)
4) I get something practical out of it, so I don’t have to feel wasteful of my time.
5) I can make something that is otherwise unaffordable to me (plus size silk dress for a wedding)
6) I enjoy getting better at something I can take tangible pleasure in.
Michelle
April 30, 2014 #
I sew because I can’t remember not sewing. As a little girl, I would hand sew doll clothes, hold-back ties for my curtains, pillows, etc. The bug just never went away ( Thanks mom for exposing me to sewing!). Every time I finish a piece, it makes me feel like I can do something or like I’m good at something! ( Or it depresses me and I stop for a while, lol). I love to create; baking, drawing, painting, sewing, composing, writing. I think sewing is just another form of creation for me. I’m amazed every time I take a few yards of cloth and turn it into a piece of clothing. It’s crazy! I would much rather sew things that I can wear, that I like ,that fit me well rather than throw money at cheaply made things. I would rather spend my money trying to get really, really good at this and gaining confidence and so much else. I have to say though that the best thing about sewing now that I’m an adult is this super duper online sewing community including you. Thanks SOOOO much for all you do!
Molly
April 30, 2014 #
I sew because it allows me to create and be creative. It is meditative and analytical–both of which help me. I love creating an original piece of clothing or household item. I also like that I can create useful things from used clothes/sheets/etc, and from new fabrics. I can make presents for children, bags to hold things–so quickly (much easier than driving 15 miles to buy a present or a similar item). I love that aspect also.
Toni
April 30, 2014 #
I took up sewing as a form of therapy. As a child, very few of my clothes weren’t hand-me-downs. I always wanted something chosen for me with me and my tastes in mind. I remember asking to choose something once, only to be on the receiving end of a tirade, being asked who did I think I was and what made me think I was so special. So, for a very long time (I’m still working on this), I believed that my needs, tastes, and wishes either A) didn’t matter or B) were burdensome.
Every time I shop for beautiful fabric or sit at my machine (not as often a I’d like), I have to smile because, finally, I’ll have something just for me. Sewing is helping me heal.
Andrea
May 1, 2014 #
I love this. Beautiful.
Sarai
May 6, 2014 #
This made me tear up, Toni. We all should feel special and deserving.
Megan A.
April 30, 2014 #
I hate sewing! There. I said it! I hate almost the entire sewing process. The only two reasons I continue to do it is because I love fabric and like to have clothes that fit.
Mary
May 1, 2014 #
I for one applaud your honesty :).
Nayla
May 2, 2014 #
haha Megan thank you for your honesty. That made me laugh.
Sarai
May 2, 2014 #
Hilarious. I’m sure your are not alone, Megan.
amy
April 30, 2014 #
Wow, I dont think I’ve ever really thought about the answer to this question. I started sewing because I wanted to learn how to make clothes. But now it’s so much more than that. Sewing is almost second nature to me. I love knowing that I can create almost anything to wear using my own to hands (and my trusty elna). I am constantly inspired by the fashions I see around me, in magazines, and on the runway.. and because I can sew I feel I can acquire almost any look I want without spending too much $$. Fashion becomes wildly and endlessly attainable. I am also a big “green sewer” – I use vintage fabric, refashion old things, and since I work in the garment district I’ve saved many remnants from the landfill (my fabric stash is HUGE and I don’t think I’ve spent more than $50 bucks on the whole thing!) – so sewing for me is not only a way to save money and still look great, but also another way to recycle and respect mother earth.
My relationship with sewing is still growing and ever-changing, but I think (and hope) it will be around for a lifetime. I plan to even pass it on to my children.
Sue Augustyn
April 30, 2014 #
Hmmm, what a great opportunity to actually think about why I sew–I remember as a child being fascinated watching my mother sew and wanting to learn myself. I was taught to sew on a treadle sewing machine and sewed on it for many years. It is now retired for a more modern electronic model. I remember going to the Montgomery Wards store in San Francisco where they had miniature mannequins with beautifully made dresses and I wanted to do that! (I actually wanted the little mannequin as well)
However, as I think about it, the real reason is the entire process and the element of surprise that seems to be inherent in any art form. From the perusing pattern and fashion magazines and imagining how I might create a particular look to the trip to the fabric store to search for the perfect material it all makes for it’s own excitement. Then there is the satisfaction of learning a new skill, and I am constantly aware of how much more there is to learn.
I love looking at RTW for inspiration and, of course sometimes I do yield to temptation.
So I guess as I think about it, I just love the art of sewing.
To those of you who live in the Pacific Northwest, one of the best places for inspiration is the Maryhill Museum where they exhibit mannequins from the 1940’s Paris Runway Show. They are dressed in exquisite couture garments including hats, gloves and shoes, so lovely.
It’s nice to be in the company of so many dedicated sewers. Thanks for asking the question, “Why do you sew?”
Helen
May 1, 2014 #
Such interesting comments, so many ring true with me also, sewing is great! I have sewn since I was a wee girl, occupied in many a school holiday and on rainy days by mum, aunt and both grandmas, from learning to make patchwork , dolls clothes and embroidering motifs on various bits and bobs. Now I am in my mid thirties and I still love to sew, not only to make unique well fitting pieces, but for a sense of personal achievement.
I was recently made redundant and ventured into the world of self employment as a jewellery designer-maker and have had to watch every penny I spend- so clothes shopping is pretty much non- existent for me, so have challenged myself to make as much of my summer wardrobe as possible, it’s made me a lot more conscious of what I really need.
Chris
May 1, 2014 #
My friend asked why we bother to sew when there are so many garments available in the shops and these are a few of the reasons I came up with (in no particular order):
Trying to get something to fit
I don’t want to meet up with someone wearing the same garment (same fabric doesn’t count)
Better than doing housework
Occupational therapy – takes my mind off other things
Keeps my brain active, working things out (not sure how effective this is)
Good excuse to spend loads of money on equipment, fabric etc etc
Meeting nice people
Being able to make something that you can’t buy in the shops to my own specification
I enjoy a challenge!!!!!
sue
May 4, 2014 #
and I am one of the nice people you met! I am very glad about that :)
Enrique
May 1, 2014 #
Dont forget us men who sew!! Not only women sew. Why do i sew? I sew for me. I love nice clothes i want clothes thats fits very nice its not easy finding clothes foe us choosey men. I love being creative. I want to make beautiful clothing not only for me but also for my future wife.
Fien
May 1, 2014 #
I’m sixteen years old, but I stitched a little bag for the first time when I was nine. I started sewing because I loved listening to the noise (or sound) the sewing machine made when my mother repaired the clothes of my father, brother, sisters and me (who were mostly bought at cheap confection stores and they still are, just because we are a middle class family). My grandmother’s profession was seamstress. She learned it when she was about fourteen years old and made clothes for people who ordered them. When she was in her thirties she stopped sewing for other people, so that she could help my grandfather with their farm. But she still made clothes for their six children. Because of the divorce of my grandparents, I didn’t see my grandmother for about ten years. I first visited her again when I was twelve. Then I saw a sewing machine standing in her appartement and all the beautiful clothes she made herself. That inspired me to still go on with sewing. I also have a very talktive aunt who sews amazing things and when she shows me what she made I always become kind of jealous. But afterwords, it makes me want to sew more and more. When I am stuck sewing something, I go over to her place and then she solves everything like it is nothing. When she does that I keep my eyes wide open. I hope that one day, I will become as good as they are. Because of the circumstances I can only visit my grandmother one time each schoolholiday, but I make sure that I wear clothes I made myself then. She’s always very happy when I show them to her and it makes us both proud. So in the first place, I sew because it makes me happy. I also get a lot of compliments from teatchers, fellow pupils and even strangers when I weare my selfmade clothes to school. So that’s an advantage. That way, sewing is very good for your selfconfidence. I’m aged sixteen so at this moment, it is become very important to be different from the rest. And what’s a better way to do that then sewing? There are also a lot of classmates who want to learn how to sew. If there’s one thing that I hate, it is the fact that fashion magazines, media and big confection stores make us look all the same. During summer last year, I saw seven girls at school who were wearing the same white dress from Vero Moda at the same day and that’s something that makes me want to puke. I just came from a tree day long school trip to London. And when we had some spare time in Oxford Street, I went to Foyles (because I am olso a big book lover) and there I found a “Ecologist guide to fashion” by Ruth Styles, which is a very interesting book. In the mean time ALL (really all of them) the girls when to Primark and some of them came back with even two of those big brown bags. That’s one thing that makes me feel very angry and powerless. About a year ago I started hearing the truth about cheap concept stores like H&M and Primark. So now I am more consious of what I wear. Over less then two years I have to find out what I want to studie and I am seriously considering to do something about that problem. In the ideal world in my head I will become the women who gave the world its very needed big wake up call and I continue the Fashion Revolution that I started then. But I am talking about utopia, still. I do hope that things will change. That just the common man in the street will realise what is really happening and that fashion stores will eventually change their way of working. You may say I am a dreamer, but I am not the only one.
Greetings from a little village in Belgium.
Nayla
May 2, 2014 #
Oh wow! Good for you. Sounds like you’re on the right track. And no you’re not the only “dreamer”
Julia
May 1, 2014 #
I think most of the people I know think I am pretty crazy for sewing my own clothes, especially whilst studying for a PhD. However, I think one of the main reasons I am really enjoying learning to make my own clothes is that it is a great contrast to my research, which is going very badly at the moment! Sewing just works! I might find some processes difficult, but there are so many great resources available that I feel like I can sew anything as long as I can find good instructions. I don’t think it is a coincidence that I taught myself to knit when I was in the final year of my first degree! Clearly I need a creative outlet.
Sewing also really satisfies the problem-solver in me-I love engineering solutions, and going from that 2D paper pattern to a 3D wearable garment is a joy, that is not getting old yet.
I also love the creativity involved: Being able to make exactly what I want in any colour/fabric, customise or draft patterns, and being able to make clothes that fit (although I’m not so good at that!). I also like that I have some control over the origin of my clothes, although admittedly fabric sourcing is still an ethical minefield.
Mary
May 1, 2014 #
A little over a year ago, I suffered some fairly extensive memory loss–I lost most of my memories for the 2 years before that. As I started to come back to myself and assess the damage, I realized that I no longer knew where about 1/3 of my belongings, including most of the clothes in my closet, came from. This was deeply unsettling, and made me realize how much material objects are linked to identity for me. I think maybe I’m just really materialistic–not in the sense that I want the most expensive or highest-status or newest stuff, but in the sense that I rely on the things I own to tell me (and everyone else) who I am.
I’ve always liked to make things with my hands. I’ve been a knitter for almost 15 years, as well as a baker, a quilter, a spinner, a maker of butter–I just like to know where things come from in that intimate way that can only come from making them yourself. Some things, like butter and yarn, I don’t find (personally) to be worth making myself; but I like knowing that I *could*.
Then there’s the fact that, for me, acting morally means not just trying to behave ethically in my personal relationships, but also trying to be a consumer in ways that don’t hurt others. So my husband and I try to buy locally, and only to buy ethically produced chocolate, for example (which is crazy hard and expensive, don’t get me started. Also, I always fail when it comes to Cadbury eggs).
So sewing is sort of the nexus of these things for me: it’s a way to think deeply about and ground myself in the things that I own and wear; it’s a way to learn the ins and outs of our material culture; and it’s at least a little less evil than participating in the fast fashion merry-go-round.
Sarai
May 2, 2014 #
What an incredible story and perspective.
Nayla
May 2, 2014 #
I started sewing mostly because in all areas of my life I like to be self-sustainable. I dreamed of a day I wouldn’t have to rely on shopping in a mall to obtain clothing that I liked to wear. I loved the idea of making my own clothes. I don’t like the idea of mass-production of cheap clothes. I like to take things slower and make a good quality garment that fits well, lasts and isn’t a clone of everything else in the mall.
Elizabeth
May 2, 2014 #
I am new to your blog and have been following the wardrobe architect series. I am a college student and I started sewing through 4-H when I was 11. I started with quilts and found my love of sewing clothing in high school. I sew for a lot of different reasons. My clothes are unique and they fit. I love being creative and sewing fulfills that creative urge. It helps me deal with stress I have from being in school. When I sew I can forget about the things that have been stressful and just sew. I enjoy the process of starting with a piece of fabric and ending up with something wearable. It is so great and I hope to be sewing for a long time. The sewing/blogging community is so wonderful and supportive too. They help keep me going.
Ann
May 2, 2014 #
I started sewing because I once saw a pretty blouse, way too expensive for me, and thought:I can do that myself. I was about 16 when I started. I’ve never stopped sewing and I’m often glad, that I could fullfil almost every fabric- dream, whenever I wanted to.I love fabric, it’s an addiction to me! I’m 48 now,I live in Germany.
April B
May 3, 2014 #
My grandma was a tailor, who did a seven year apprenticeship in pre-war Britain. (I still have her treadle Singer sewing machine.) Something about her inspired me. I loved sewing but only got to take it as an extra ‘O’ level in sixth form, as it wasn’t considered sufficiently academic to be one of my main study areas for my 16+ exams. I adore the process of creativity; the colour I choose, the fabric I choose, fitted for me. It’s got harder over the years to find accessible decent fabric. John Lewis in London used to be a mecca but is now a sideshow. I am so pleased that sewing is having a renaissance in the UK, and that sewing blogs have let me find other like minded women, as opposed to being the ‘odd one out’. My clothes are nearly all still RTW as I run my own business and two teenage children, but when I do make time to sew I just LOVE it!
Laurel
May 6, 2014 #
You are right about finding good, reasonably priced, ethically produced fabric. It’s challenging.
Ro
May 3, 2014 #
I sew because I want a wardrobe of well fitting, beautiful, quality clothes, which I couldn’t get unless I paid someone else to make them for me! Ready to wear items rarely fit properly, and trying to find the exact combination of colour, style, fit and material, at a price I can afford is just introducing too many variables. I enjoy the process of construction, customisation and design. It’s very satisfying, and there is always more to learn. Funnily enough, after years of claiming zero aptitude (I come from generations of highly skilled sewists) and avoiding it like the plague, necessity made me give in, and I find I have a good level of natural ability.
Ro
May 3, 2014 #
Oh, and my first real sewing machine (Grace) has helped me enjoy sewing a lot more. She’s a 1951 singer 201k. I had to overhaul her a bit, rebuilding the tensioner and then it took me days to balance the tension. But, oh myy, I love the sound she makes, the precision, and her perfect stitches. For me, this has taken sewing from just construction to something altogether more. (More what? I don’t know. I almost want to say ‘sacred’)
Caroline
May 4, 2014 #
I sew because I grew up with sewing. My mother was a seamstress, she made clothes at home for a bridal shop. In her spare time she made clothes for me and herself and taught me sewing. Very few clothes where shop bought back then as clothes in shops where very expensive, and fabric was a lot cheaper. And we where allways proud of our “home-made” clothes. Now I sew because I don’t like the clothes I can afford and I don’t like the circumstances in wich they are made, I don’t want other people to suffer for my clothes. I think sewing is clever, it is a skill that helps you to “survive”. The clothes and things I make reflect my personality. And ofcourse I sew because I think it’s fun too,…:-)
nadia
May 4, 2014 #
I sew clothes because I find the whole process to be truly gratifying. I’ve always wanted to be able to sew my own clothes just for the glorious feeling of knowing that I made them. I am a late bloomer in sewing, just starting out, and I started with learning how to sew basics (pillowcases, bags etc) but my goal was always clothes. I am having so much fun (also frustrations at times!) learning about clothes.
I find that I don’t really buy clothes anymore ever since I started learning how to sew (basic) tops because I cannot wait to make my own. so many ideas!
I also realized one thing: I am more interested to sew clothes for my own personal use (or for a family/relative) than making it into a business. I just realized this when I noticed I was more excited to finish my seams with french, flat felled, hong kong style than actually buying a serger. I stayed up all night and days reading and finding out about how to finish seams!
P.s just bought your laurel pattern :) I cannot wait!!
Lorraine Cunningham
May 6, 2014 #
Sewing is my life! I learnt to sew when I was 12 years old, and was instantly hooked. I love how it feeds my creativity and stretches me mentally. I also love that there is always more to learn. I studied fashion design at university and went on to work in industry and loved every minute. The opportunity came for me to return to work at my old university as the fashion technician, and I sew and make patterns every day at work and pass on my experience to the students. Forty five years later, I can’t imagine not sewing and making patterns. I love the thrill I get when I wear something I made twenty or so years before and I know it will last another twenty years.
Joh
May 6, 2014 #
I loved this topic. I have been sewing properly since I was 8. I now have an adult job with lots of responsibility and the way I deal with stress is to sew. When I was a kid if I was in trouble I used to think about how patterns went together. And as an adult I do almost the same. 15 minutes of sewing if worth 10 hours of massage!
I can’t imagine not sewing.
Robin
May 6, 2014 #
To sink into the creation of another garment is so exciting I wish I could sew all day every day !!!
Nadine
May 6, 2014 #
I learned how to sew when I was young from my Mom, then took lessons from a woman in our neighborhood that used to teach all the girls how to make clothes. I used to sew all kinds of things when I was young, but then, as I grew older, fell out of sewing (but find matching holiday boy/girl outfits and, looking at the outfits available, realized that did, one year, make a costume for our local Renaissance festival). The reason I got back into sewing was my two Chihuahuas, which I love dressing! I got frustrated trying to many of them I could make myself. My Mom bought me a sewing machine for my birthday and I started making my own patterns and clothes for Chewy & Lilibell. My boyfriend and a friend, after seeing what I was creating, gently encouraged me to start selling the clothes and Lilibell’s Couture on Etsy was born. I don’t sell the clothes to make money, I do it because I love creating and it’s a way for me to get my designs out of my head and into reality. Plus, I also donate a portion of each sale to two of my favorite rescues.
Sabrina
May 6, 2014 #
I sew for several reasons. I’m petite and very slim (I think I’m a US size 0 on my upper body and a bit bigger on my hips) and I could never find anything I liked that fit well. The quality of RTW that I could afford was terrible. And, of course, I wanted to sew.
I also cut my own patterns, and having a design go from something that is a drawing to being a real-life garment is like magic to me. I also like that I can use industrial sewing and pattern cutting to get professional results from logical methods.
Being able to sew and cut patterns also enables me to start my own indie pattern company (which I am doing) and provide my own income doing something I enjoy and am good at. It gives me a sense of confidence, security and hope for my future.
Sara
May 6, 2014 #
Sewing is so much more than just putting a garment together. It is the result of a process of thinking about need, enjoying the process of choosing the pattern, the fabric, the colours, the styles of pattern and styles of fabric design, the processes that have gone into place before the fabric was even produced… I could go on and on. Sewing encourages us to read, to comprehend, to nut things out. Sewing is a sense of community, linking with other sewers, being able to be part of sewing groups and sitting with others sharing ideas, thoughts, experiences all with a common link. Having the common thread of sewing means people who are isolated can still be part of a happy, creative community online from anywhere in the world. We can share different cultures through sewing. Sewing keeps our brains active with calculations, making 2D into 3D, understanding the technology of sewing machines and their ever increasing potential to do such much at our hands. Sewing is ethical in that we think twice (three/four/five…) times before a purchase of fabric as opposed to impulse buying of a product made by slave labour. And best of all, we get to make a garment and enjoy that real sense of achievement when we wear it, knowing we made it ourselves.
Madeline Chard
May 6, 2014 #
I sew for practical reasons…I am 6 sizes bigger on my athlete’s shoulders than my hips/waist. I also sew because I appreciate quality and find it difficult ot buy clothing which has good quality finishing and is made from good quality natural materials. I was taught to sew by my mother and grandmother, and when I finish a garment I find myself secretly wondering if they would be proud.
Nadine Johnson
May 6, 2014 #
I was told by my grandmother I was not a good cook at the age of 9 . So she taught me to sew. I took to it like a duck in the water. Been sewing ever since. I could sew every day if I had the chance. I enjoy the creating my own patterns while using more then one fabric choice. Vintage table cloth are my favorite.
Jasha
May 7, 2014 #
I’m loving this discussion! I sew because I used to long for gorgeous local designer clothes in boutiques and feel it was impossible to justify spending that much money on one skirt. I knew that it couldn’t be that hard to make them. Then I found I enjoyed the creative challenge, the puzzle you mentioned, of customising patterns with fit, pattern, fabric, texture, cultural reference. Then I discovered hand sewing through Alabama Chanin, and stencilling and dyeing, and I realised I could make my own fabric too! So my clothes could be a complete reflection of my creativity. I feel so much more myself in my own garments. I feel more confident and relaxed, and appreciate myself more. It helps me like who I am.
Isis
May 10, 2014 #
– i’ve never been interested in following trends, so find items in shop boring, predictable, lame, and not what i’m looking for.
– i can be very particular with what i want, so by making i get exactly what i want, rather than settling for second best with items in shops.
– i LOVE the planning, researching and designing side of making my own garments.
– i’m good at it so it gives me pleasure.
– my mind enjoys the problem-solving & construction side of things.
– i love making, particularly useful things (ie i consider myself a Designer rather than an Artist), and sewing is one of the first making ‘techniques’ i was taught, so it has continued.
– i don’t want to support Big Biz
– i believe most RTW clothing is made un-ethically
– i’d rather spend the time myself, than paying someone for the labour.
– i really enjoy knowing garments i have are handmade, imperfect, and unique.
Lize
May 10, 2014 #
I sew, because I love creating something of my own, something unique. I aim to distinguish myself from my peers. Another reason is: whenever I go shopping, I n-e-v-e-r find exactly what I’m looking for.