My first sewing project was a miniature quilt top, made from a selection of indigo-dyed blue squares, sewn by hand. I was seven. I didn’t know it yet, but I’d just learned a skill I’d continue to hone well into adulthood, and perhaps for my whole life.
The start of a passion
After my doll sized quilt, I quickly graduated to more complex projects: appliquéd pillow covers, elastic waist skirts, bigger and more precise quilt squares. As a teen I designed and sewed my own prom dress. I draped fabric on my homemade duct tape dress form to create the pattern, and finished the floor length, pale pink gown with dozens of painstakingly hand sewn satin rosettes.
Skill building
My interest in fashion and sewing followed me into college, where…
