Hi there sewing friend,

The sewing community is a special place, full of people who are passionate about crafting and creating. My journey into this world has been incredibly rewarding, with each interaction enriching my love for sewing even more. From my time working in a fabric shop to teaching beginners online and building my social media presence, I've experienced firsthand the strong bonds and support that make this community so unique. In this blog post, I'll share my story and how these connections have shaped my sewing journey. Let's dive in and explore the amazing world of the sewing community together.

The fabric store

Working in a fabric shop was my first real immersion into the sewing community, and it was an experience that opened my eyes to the diverse and vibrant world of sewing enthusiasts. Every day, I met people from all walks of life, each with their own unique projects and stories. I got to help seasoned quilters find the perfect fabric for their next masterpiece and guide beginners through their first steps in choosing materials. These interactions were more than just transactions; they were opportunities to share tips, swap stories, and build relationships. The shop became a hub of creativity and connection, where the love of sewing brought people together. It was in this environment that I truly understood the depth of passion and knowledge within the sewing community, and it inspired me to become more involved and eventually share my own journey with others.

Night sewing classes

Teaching beginners how to sew during night classes has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of my journey within the sewing community. I vividly remember the excitement and nervousness of my students as they walked into the cozy classroom, eager to learn a new skill. Sharing my knowledge and passion for sewing in person has allowed me to witness the joy and satisfaction that comes with creating something with your own hands. It also highlighted how much community spirt is in the sewing community, as I had several students return to the class even after completing it the previous term, just to be around other like minded sewists. 

Guiding others through their first stitches, helping them troubleshoot problems, and witnessing their progress week after week has been incredibly rewarding. It's amazing to see how quickly confidence grows as students master new techniques and gain independence in their sewing projects. Now with the help of social media, I can still keep in contact with a few of my sewing students that have now progressed onto sewing their dream wardrobes, such an amazing achievement for them to showcase. 

The camaraderie that forms during these classes is special. We share stories about our latest projects, exchange tips on where to find the best fabric deals, and support each other through challenges. Its was in one of these classes where one night we heard about the start of the COVID-19 lockdowns. These classes have become more than just a learning environment; they are a gathering of like-minded individuals who inspire and encourage each other. It's through these connections that I've truly felt the strength and warmth of the sewing community.

Online sewing community

Building a sewing community online has been an enriching journey that has allowed me to connect with fellow enthusiasts from around the globe. Through social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook groups, I've been able to share my projects, tips, and tutorials, while also learning from others in return. The online sewing community is incredibly supportive, with members offering encouragement, advice, and celebrating each other's accomplishments. The comment sections of my posts and videos often turn into vibrant discussions where sewists share their insights and experiences, providing a wealth of knowledge that enriches everyone involved.

Throughout my growth on social media, the sewing community has been an unwavering source of support. Whether it's cheering me on during new launches or offering constructive feedback, their encouragement has been invaluable. It's heartwarming to know that I can always count on this community to engage with and uplift my content, reinforcing the bonds we've built through our shared love for sewing. Building and nurturing this virtual community has been instrumental in fostering my own growth as a sewist and entrepreneur, reminding me daily of the power of shared passion and collaboration.

In conclusion

The sewing community is a testament to the power of passion and creativity transcending geographical boundaries. Whether in a cozy fabric shop, a bustling classroom, or online forums, sewists from all walks of life come together to share their love for crafting. It's truly remarkable how this community supports each other, shares knowledge, and celebrates achievements regardless of location. From teaching beginners in night classes to connecting with fellow enthusiasts worldwide through social media, I've witnessed firsthand the incredible bonds that sewing fosters. The global reach of the sewing community not only inspires creativity but also reminds us of the universal joy that comes from making something with our own hands. As we continue to sew, create, and inspire, let's cherish and nurture this diverse and inclusive community that brings so much warmth and connection into our lives.

On a personal note, thank you to the sewing community that has always been a friendly face to me, be that online or out in the real world. I have had the privilege of being on your timeline, classroom or local fabric store for many years now. It is a position I do not take lightly and am fully humbled by it everyday. 

I want Ford Wardrobe to stand for something more than sewing, I want it to be a place where people become sewists, where people find a sense of community and friendship, where we use our sewing skills to make not only our clothes but also a global difference. Weather we make our own clothes from scratch or mend a rip in some jeans, we are all sewists, we are all apart of the sewing community and, most importantly, we live, laugh, love and learn to sew.

Annie xx