project 06
MAKING CLOTHES

Making quilts is a little like making books: you are fastening flat pieces of something to other flat pieces. If you get your measurements right and take your time, these flat pieces should fit together and cooperate to achieve the final product. Attach something that is four inches long to another thing that is 4 inches long? Piece of cake.

​

​Sewing clothing is a whole other animal. You are asking flat pieces to join with other flat pieces to make something that curves and wraps. You are trying to make a six inch piece fit a four inch piece with precision and grace.  When it works, it's like magic - a transformation that requires high concentration and plenty of practice. I have learned this from my grandson -- a guitar player, college student, and magician.

​

Yes, I make things for myself, but the greater pleasure is sewing for other people, particularly when they are charming, patient, and adventuresome. I have three of these in my life – my daughter Kirstin, my friend Alice, and my other friend Alice. I particularly love the start of a project – choosing a pattern for a dress or top or jacket, and narrowing down the fabric possibilities.

​

One chilly season it was a marathon of luscious waffle-box knits in a pattern that suited everyone. This summer we had a love affair with a simple pinafore-style dress in both crisp linen and fluid linen. Now as winter approaches, one of the Alices is talking about a long, romantic coat in woven mink. Stayed tuned for that phenomenon!,

​