Ever since I can remember I have used a needle and thread to make things. I still have a collage picture of a clown I made while in junior school and can remember my teacher showing me how to do blanket stitch!
When I was 11 I started dressmaking lessons at Grammar school and bought my first sewing machine (with the help of my mum). Mum took me to the local electrical shop and bought my machine on H.P. (or on'tick as we say in Wigan) for £40 ... I then paid her back at £1.25 per week, from the money I earned doing a paper round. I made most of my own clothes and later, began sewing for others .. designing clothes and making wedding dresses, bridesmaids outfits and christening gowns. I was never taught how to make patterns ... I just did it!
Over the years I made many of my daughter's clothes and taught myself more crafts, including crochet, tatting, embroidery and bobbin lace making. However, I virtually gave all this up 25 years ago to become a full time primary teacher! I never realised the amount of time I wouldn't have, NOT to do the things I love! I loved my job, but it took over my life. Then, a few years ago, following a long period of ill health and knowing I would never be able to work full time again, I began sewing and lace making again ... that is: bobbin lace, tatting and crochet. For many years, I had been thinking about doing a City & Guilds embroidery course, but hadn't been well enough to do it ... NOW I COULD!
There ... that is a potted background of ME ...Stitching Butterfly, because I LOVE BUTTERFLIES and SEWING!
Over the years I made many of my daughter's clothes and taught myself more crafts, including crochet, tatting, embroidery and bobbin lace making. However, I virtually gave all this up 25 years ago to become a full time primary teacher! I never realised the amount of time I wouldn't have, NOT to do the things I love! I loved my job, but it took over my life. Then, a few years ago, following a long period of ill health and knowing I would never be able to work full time again, I began sewing and lace making again ... that is: bobbin lace, tatting and crochet. For many years, I had been thinking about doing a City & Guilds embroidery course, but hadn't been well enough to do it ... NOW I COULD!
There ... that is a potted background of ME ...Stitching Butterfly, because I LOVE BUTTERFLIES and SEWING!
