Joyful Heart

Consistency is key in order to achieve. With a plan and an accountability system you will see the results you desire for the work. I have a longing to learn and explore fine dressmaking, so every Wednesday I have been fortunate enough to play atelier with Jill Andrews. Her knowledge is extensive and her joy contagious.

It is also a delight to spend time in her fashion lab to see where her ribbons and boning are kept. She is just as excited about my heritage machines and encourages me to give them power and turn them on. I have not threaded the needle yet to my painting with lace dresses. Perhaps today will be the day.

Even if it is a matter of going through boxes to find the lace and the rest of my tools that is a beautiful start. The next step is to make fabric cards so I can begin the Elsa Fitzgerald design and development work. When you get overwhelmed and do not know where to begin choose two easy yet important steps you can take today. Don’t allow the compounding mind keep you from doing the things you love.

We are always pretty tired after long days, but then we pull out the fabrics and have such joy when we explore.

This rare collection of fine vintage fabrics she has is amazing and the best part is I get to see her design them into garments in real-time.

Jill has also introduced me to beautiful gowns and designs to spark some joyful inspiration.

Our sewing machine friends. I hope to power up my Wilcox and Gibbs in our next episode.