What does sewing mean to you, friends?
Today, I would like to talk about what it means to me!
As I grew up, my mother sewed. Not only did she enjoy sewing, but she was quite skilled at. Even now, at 86 years old and unable to sew, she keeps a few handmade pieces in her closet. They may not fit her thinner frame, but they are too dear to part with. My favorite is a suit made in the early 80’s from ultra-suede. It might be outdated, but is still meticulously sewn and beautifully crafted.
When I was ten years old, my mother finally tired of me standing behind her chair, watching her sew, so she let me try out her sewing machine. We didn’t have money for repairs, during those days, so it was a big deal for me to touch that heavenly machine! I started with straight seams and quickly graduated to doll clothes. By age eleven, I was too old to get a Barbie, but my sister got one for Christmas and I made that doll a complete wardrobe as a Christmas gift. I even got my hands on a real beaver pelt and Barbie got a beaver skin coat. Not only did I sew that one by hand, but my mom helped me cut it out with a razor blade so we didn’t get fur everywhere. Don’t tell PETA!
By the time I entered Home Economics, my teacher couldn’t believe what I was sewing. I finished the first class project—a silly white apron—in record time. However, by 8th grade, I made a fully lined sheath dress. It was purple wool tweed and I wore a long sleeved turtleneck under it. It was the 60’s and I loved the colors. Even better, I got an A!
For my 15th birthday, I finally got a machine of my own—a wonderful used Singer. It was one of the things I took with me to boarding school, my junior and senior years of high school. Good look, too, since I ended up making all of the costumes for our school operettas in both years. (We put on Pirates of Penzance and The Mikado.)
My first husband hated my sewing. I am not sure why, even to this day, but I gave up sewing for those years. After almost 14 years in that rocky marriage, I left with my two young sons. That first year was such a struggle. What did I do for fun or to let off stress? Gradually, I remembered how much I’d always enjoyed sewing. My cousin took me to a fabric store that specialized in designer outerwear fabric, where I bought enough remnants for both boys to have complete ski outfits. I altered the pattern to fit my sons—my oldest was a lanky 6 feet tall at thirteen!—and put the logo from the designer lining on the jacket sleeves. All their friends commented on how wealthy I must be to get them a pair of designer ski outfits. They proudly told their friends that their mom made it! I found my joy again!
Much to my surprise, there was also another man for me. I believed that no one would want a forty-something woman with teenage boys, but I was wrong. What joy he brought to my life, with his encouragement and love.
Eventually, as I hit my mid-forties, the Big 4 patterns stopped fitting me well. What a blow! They had never failed me before, so I couldn’t understand why they no longer fit. Unfortunately, I lived in the middle of nowhere in Saskatchewan, CA, so there was no teacher to consult or internet to learn about alterations from. Finally, I got tired of wasting fabric and took up quilting. At least there were women around me who liked to quilt. To this day, I haven’t found anyone in my community who sews clothing.
Still, I longed to master pattern fitting! One day, I found a Threads Magazine at the library and began my research. In 2006, as a Christmas gift from my wonderful husband, I registered for a sewing retreat with Loes Hinse in Carmel, California. I had enough air miles to fly and off I went. It was an eye opening experience. I didn’t know there were other women in the world just like me! I credit Loes with finding my sewing mojo and my joy once again. She helped me alter her patterns to fit my changing body. They were easy to sew, perfectly fitted, and provided instant gratification. My love of indie designers began on that trip.
Of course, getting a computer and finding sewing forums really helped me understand my new figure. Yes, I had gained weight but that was not my problem. My body was changing in other ways. There were adjustments for all these things: tilted pelvis/recessed pelvis, forward shoulders, stooping back, and forward neck. I seemed to be shrinking across the front, between my arms, while my back was expanding and enlarging. I was always a pear shaped woman, but with the addition of a belly, I’m now a pear-apple hybrid!
Two years ago, I took a class with Lorraine Henry. Another life changing experience! Light bulbs started going off rapidly, as I discovered more figure variations and how to alter for them. Soon afterwards, I also discovered Jenny and her blog, Cashmerette. Her posts about sewing and body positivity opened a new, interesting world for me. There should be no shame in my body and its structure. I did not have figure flaws, just figure variations. It was a joy to watch Jenny, Mary, and their young friends start this collective with that same message in mind. Maybe I had something to contribute to other women, as well, so I started submitting reviews and articles for publication. Through my journey, sharing how I create well-fitting clothes, I soon discovered that I could write!
Life is ongoing and changing. It never stands still. My wonderful husband was diagnosed with inoperable and untreatable cancer, last summer. I stopped working to care for him, but he slept hours and hours every day. So again, sewing is what saved me. I was always right here when he needed me, but sewing was both my sanity and salvation. Some days, I could only manage twenty minutes. I embraced a new slow sewing policy and didn’t push myself. I am grateful for the time we had, over these last months, and grateful that my mom passed this skill down to me. I am grateful for my talent and especially grateful for my sewing tribe of friends. All of you!
Now, my next adventure is beginning. I can make it through anything as long as I can bring my sewing machine, my serger, and my new Shashiko machine!
I so enjoyed reading this. Yes, you can write! And you give me hope in many ways. Thank you.
Thank you for sharing your story! Fit is a game changer. The line that most resonated with me, sewing saved me.
Love to hear more of your sewing journey.
An inspiring post – thank you.
My own sewing experiences have been quite different. My mum did not sew, and I learned at school. This was not a happy experience as we had quite a scary sewing teacher, and I suffered the humiliation of having to make things which I knew would not fit me. But I wanted to wear interesting clothes, and couldn’t get them in the shops, so I persisted. Patterns never fit, and I learned to adapt them by making MANY disastrous mistakes! But I have learned so much from the sewing community online, and I am so very grateful to people like yourself, sharing your amazing skills and experience with us all.
I am incredibly honoured to have so many of you replying to my post. There is something so special about the sewing community. I am currently working on a new Tshirt from a new to me company. I will likely share it in a post. There is so much to do after a funeral. But again the slow sewing policy is in effect, and I need some sanity.
Thank you for sharing your story. It resonates with a lot of us. You are a beautiful woman, and I always like to read your reviews. May this next year’s sewing continue to bring you much comfort (and us much inspiration). Also, I sew on a Singer 401A just like the one in your ad:)
I too am starting to sew again for my 75 y/o body after quitting because of my changing body. Thank goodness for Curvey and Craftsy.
I loved your story and can so relate – sewing for an older, more mature body. Thank you for this post!
Wow! Sewing completely altered your life. I too am thankful for the ability to reach other sewers via internet and continue learning. Unlike you, I put my sewing down for far longer than you but I wasn’t very skilled before I did. The ability to make maternity clothes saved a lot of money and after that, nothing, for a very long time. It wasn’t until I moved overseas that my interest in sewing was renewed. I’ve been in Japan for 4 1/2 years and am now preparing to return home for good. Can’t wait to go to a workshop and get some fitting help. My body has changed drastically and I need help. It hurts when I waste my time and fabric…..
I was reading your letter and smiling. My mother was a dressmaker and she used to call me her business partner. I was the only one of 5 girls who was interested in sewing. My job was to keep the sewing room floor clean and when I was eight she got her first electric machine and gave me her treadle. I sewed for years until the patterns stop fitting me and I also turned to quilting and sweat suits. I want so much to be able to make my clothes and look decent again but I don’t even know where to start. You have inspired me and I hope you stay on the good path.
Thank you for the story, brought back good memories. My mother had a sewing machine just like the one in the picture. Love sewing.
I swear there was an audible SHRIEK when I got to your photo! I know your work! It’s been inspirational to me! I know that model on that porch!
Sometimes sewing is like going to church, and this comments roll is the congregation in the choir. I haven’t had the life you’ve had, but I know all the struggles and joys (and the proud sewn-for sons who have learned to sew). Sewing is a gift we give ourselves. And your words here are a gift to me.
Thank you so very very much.
I love to know who you are. There are lots of Kurtz names in this town. Are you one of them?
I love your story.
This is an amazing and inspiring story! Thank you for sharing it with us.
Thank you for your beautiful story. Many of us have found solace in sewing and the creative outlet it provides during good times and challenging times.
Thanks so much Elaine for sharing your sewing journey and a little bit of your life. I love your attitude!
Thank you so much for your heartfelt story, Elaine! You are a wonderful inspiration!! I am learning to sew for My 65 year-old body with, at this time, more fails than successes. I learn something from each failed project, so I don’t consider those waisted time. I would love to hear more from women sewing for older, larger bodies, especially from you!
Great story – thank you! I always love to see what you’ve been making. I’m back to sewing and fitting my new 63 year old body after having given up with sewing for awhile. I’m coming around to the fact that I just need to work with what I’ve got, and not worry about what I used to have. Sewing is fun again!
Thanks for sharing! Your story is so inspirational and I enjoy reading all of your posts.
So much of your story rings a bell with me. Your gifts and strength are an inspiration to all women especially who live away from big cities and resources. May the rest of your journey takes you down many lovely paths meeting lovely people who can enrich your life and you theirs. Thank you for sharing! First husbands who hate our love of sewing just make us more determined and better at our craft…I had one too but I left after 21 years.
Elaine, this was beautifully written. Your story is such an inspiration!
So enjoyed your post – encouraging and uplifting in so many ways.
Elaine,
Your story is an inspiration. You have changed right before my eyes from a person closer to my age and body type who sews to a strong, determined woman of depth who sews. Thank you for sharing your story.
Thanks for sharing your wonderful story! Wishing you the best and looking forward to seeing more of your posts.
Oh Elaine – your story really touched me. I love all the articles you write for the Collective, but this one was so personal and moving. Hugs to you – I’m so sorry for the loss of your beloved and wonderful husband. g
Wonderful story, thanks so much for sharing. So sorry to hear about your husband. I’m in Kindersley myself but did 15 years up in LaRonge. When I first started sewing I quickly realized that sheets were my best bet for fabric in an isolated Northern community. My kids went to school in clothes made from sheets many times but like yours they were proud rather than embarrassed. I also used sewing to help me quit smoking years ago when I dove into making a quilt for my oldest out of all the scraps I had accumulated. Loved reading your story 🙂
Thank you for sharing your story. Although I am still in what you would describe as regular clothes and fit it’s an ongoing battle with exercise and a somewhat restrictive diet to keep my shape. At over 50 I do notice the broader back too, I just thought it was a weight thing. Sewing is the only thing I ever really excelled at. My mother always said, when I was a teenager, it was my blessing and curse to be good at too many things but excell at none. Then I started an apprenticeship at a tailor and found my mojo. Finishing first in class and now 30 years later having my own pattern company is such a joy. Projects are like a separate world to me. I enter and the time just stops literally for me. I am sure the ladies that sew know that feeling, thinking it’s 11 am checking the watch and it’s 3pm. So thank you again for sharing.
It has been such a joy to read your articles. I am 5″8″ tall, have size 11 feet, the same measurements, same body type as you do and am 63 years old. Believe it or not I am an RN that retired 2 weeks ago here in Ontario. The sewing blogs usually showcase younger people so I don’t have a sense of what is appropriate for me in the sewing world. When I see you model the clothes you have made using Cashmerette patterns it confirms for me that they are beautiful and age appropriate. Cashmerette and you have inspired me to be more positive about my changed body and given me inspiration to sew clothing that not only pleases me but actually fit my long arms and “pear-apple” body. Again, thank you Elaine and Jenny for changing the sewing world one pattern at a time!
Oh my! I have a twin. Here’s to the joy of sewing.
Elaine I so enjoyed hearing your story. Sewing and crafts have been such a life saver for me too. No matter the circumstances it seems my sewing machine brings me relief and a little escape from the problems in life. Also when there is no problems it is just fun.
I am not good at written instructions, I had to learn by doing and making mistakes. My mom taught me the basics and I started sewing when living in an RV with my year old daughter as Dear Hubby had to go from job to job. I remember throwing things away I first made and walking right down to Sprouse Ritz to buy more material and start again. Now I sew for all my family at different times. I am 66 but still have problems reading how to adjust patterns. U-tube is a life saver for me. It was just wonderful to hear your life with sewing.
Nina
Thanks for sharing your story, Elaine. I’m sorry to hear about your husband, hope you continue to find comfort and inspiration from sewing.
Great story. I think we live in a parallel universe because I quit sewing about the same stage of life…when patterns no longer fit me. I kept sewing only to mend things and make curtains and other home decor projects. When I retired in 2010, I bought new Babylock serger and a portable sewing machine, joined ASG and have had fun ever since. The online sewing community is rich with talented people who are generous in sharing. So glad you are one of them. Thanks.
Thank you Elaine for sharing your hope-filled story.
Your story brought tears to my eyes. <3 <3 Thank you for sharing. You're wonderful!
Elaine, you shared your story in such a beautiful and inspiring way.
Thank you!
Oh my goodness you write beautifully! How exciting is it to know that you still have not yet plumbed the depths of what you are capable of?!?!
Serious light bulbs went off at the term “slow sewing”-YES! I really no longer sew to get a new garment for tonight, I sew to experience it-I love that term.
Thank you for sharing your story. My condolences on your lovely husbands cancer. I’m glad for you both that you’ve found a way to comfort yourself and him as and when he needs it, with your sewing.
Thank you for this lovely article. I really enjoyed hearing your sewing journey, as well as your discovery of new love. Best wishes to you as you start the next chapter of your life.
What an awesome and inspiring story. Kudos to you for your positive outlook, growth and love of life (and sewing!). I just want to hug you. 🙂
Thank you for this beautiful post Elaine. I loved reading your story! I too left sewing behind in my early twenties but for my 60th my husband suggested a return to sewing (having heard all my stories about how much I loved it at one time!) so that’s what I did and what an amazing, interesting and yes exciting journey it’s been over the past year and half 🙂
Thanks for sharing. Your story made me cry!
Elaine, thanks for sharing your story, I loved reading about your sewing journey. The Big 4 stopped working for me as well. I turned to Burda and that led me to googling for help with the instructions. That’s when I found everyone online – I thought I was a lone sewer.
I’ve enjoyed all of your reviews. Hope you keep sharing.
Thanks for bringing us all into your life Elaine. Sewing is the thread that binds many of us it seems. You and I had the discussion before about the “shrinking chest” effect on one of Katherine Tilton’s patterns, and it has made me aware of the other changes age brings. (Sigh) I always look forward to seeing your reviews and contributions to the Curvy Sewing Collective. Wishing you happiness and many happy sewing hours from a fellow Canadian on the West Coast.
You’re story is wonderful! I so enjoyed reading it – thank you. Sincerely, Louise
What an inspiring story, thank you for sharing it with us!
Your strength is amazing!! I hear you about body changes! At forty I gained over a hundred pounds because of thyroid cancer. While most of it is now gone twenty years later, my shape has been changing constantly! If I get my adjustments in order, in a few months there will be different ones. I’m sure it’s a test of some kind!! This Curvy collective has been an inspiration for me and I am sure a new generation of sewers. It’s good to see this trend. The younger generation has their priorities straight- less, but better.
I also find my piece of mind in my sewing room. I can be anything and do anything I want. I can explore, be challenged, learn, succeed and fail as much as I want to. It’s been my solace since I was five years old draping doll clothes from mom’s scraps on my Barbie doll. While life has gotten in the way from time to time, I know I can always find my way back to me.
How inspiring! Thank you for telling your story.
It’s such a relief to know that I am not the only one with the shrinking upper chest ( the girls are still the same size- they are just too tired to do more than droop!!!), the broadening back, which I put down to hours hunched over a sewing machine\quilt or computer. As for my tummy, let’s just not talk about the changes there just learn to merge sizes on a pattern.
I agree with you, sewing gives me an identity and so much pleasure maybe it should be only available on prescription.
I’ve so enjoyed your posts to this blog and your work is exceptional. You boldly go wherever you wish and try every and anything you that catches your eye, brava! Now that I’ve read your story, I’m inspired to get back in the swim with my sewing and creating. Yippee!
Thank you for this. Wonderful and moving!
Elaine, your sewing story is beautiful, very moving indeed, I feel so honoured that you chose to share it with us.. Your boys must’ve felt so special and so loved that you made such an effort to give them the clothes they wanted. Sending you very best wishes from the UK xxx
Thank you for the hugs. Elaine
Hugs!!!! You look marvelous. I feel very similar about sewing being my salvation. It brings me closer to my memories of my mom and grandma teaching me on the old singers. My husband says it makes me glow! I hope so, since it also makes me forget about making dinner! Thank you for sharing your journey.
Interesting! When I first married my second husband he often commented on how happy I was…..I must have been sewing! I would look around the house to see if I had left any mess that might have given me away, like threads or scraps of fabric. There was no evidence except my happiness. Or maybe a glow. ?
Elaine- you inspire me ! Even though I am a sewing instructor for beginners , I do not challenge myself to keep up with those changes you describe with our figure. I am encouraged with each post . Thanks!
It is the little tweaks in the pattern that make the difference in the fit and feel. Try one or two to see what happens.