Why do you sew?

Why do you sew? What motivates you to spend hours in your sewing room, perched over your cherished sewing machine?

I’ve written about this before (both here and here) but I was thinking about this again as I was working on my latest project.

In addition to sewing because I like to be creative, and because I literally like to make things for other people, I also sew because it’s a way to get exactly the outcome that I want.

I’ve been looking for a particular style of tunic top for my daughter for a while. I looked at all the usual retail stores, and even searched through Etsy. But just recently I found a pattern that was exactly what I wanted and I had my ah-ha moment – I can make this in ALL the colours, and even play with different fabrics!

AN ASIDE: What is your favourite part of a sewing project? I confess… cutting out fabric patterns and pieces is NOT my favourite part of any project. In fact, if I’m stalling to get something done, it’s probably because I’m on that step of the process! But I digress…

I love the simple look of this tunic dress. Pair it with tights, a sweater in the winter, it’s the perfect outfit for play, brunch meet-ups, and more.

I had this linen fabric on hand and it was great to work with for my first time through this pattern. I can see a lot more of these dresses in my sewing future.

And, I love a dress with pockets. I was joking around with my friend because you know “kids these days” and technology – we noticed that the pockets would fit a smart phone perfectly – LOL! Don’t worry… I don’t let her walk around with my phone (unless it really is one of THOSE days). But my girl sure loves to FaceTime with Grandma and Grandpa.

One of my favourite details about this is all the gorgeous edge and top stitching.

To keep all my seams and edging precise, I used the AcuFeed Flex Dual Feed Holder with AD Foot. It’s quickly becoming my go-to sewing machine foot. It keeps all my fabric from bunching and pulling.

It even  has gorgeous gathering fabric at the neckline.

Do you have a favourite pattern?

And what about your favourite go-to sewing machine foot?

And finally, who’s started their Christmas sewing?

Editor: Trina is one of our regular artisan bloggers on janomelife. I’m sure you enjoyed this post as much as all her others – over the years – on janomelife? Perhaps you’d like to do a search for these if you missed them……you will have a reading and sewing treat in store for you if you do!