Since we landed in Asheville a mere 4 weeks ago I've been in sewing heaven. For years, and I mean years, I've wanted to learn to sew garments. I know what you're thinking. Everybody wants to sew clothes since Project Runway hit the airwaves! It's true!! Here in Asheville there is actually a fabulous garment fabric store called Waechter's. They have yummy silks, wools, brocades, batik rayons and silks, corduroy. They have it all!! I am going to the shop every Friday for what is called "sit and sew." This is a brand new activity at the shop and is a well kept secret, so far. I've been the only one there for the last two Fridays so I get one-on-one with Elaine, a wonderful seamstress, teacher, and quilter too!
So far I've made a Gore Skirt with 6 godets (aren't you impressed that I even know these terms?!!) out of silk noil, a full length robe to wrap myself in after a shower, made out of a luscious knit (my first project on a knit) and this Friday I am embarking on a lined Parisienne Flapper Coat circa 1930's designed by "Decades of Style." I'm using a Persian Lamb fabric with silk for the lining. Could you just die?!! Oh, I also whipped up a set of lined curtains in silk dupiani for the living room. Since I'm a seamstress now, I NEEDED a serger, of course. So off I went to the shops in town that sell these scary little, yet powerful machines to see which one to get. After much angst, I am happy to be say I am the proud owner of a Bernina 800DL, 4 thread serger. It actually arrives the end of this week. What is great when buying a Bernina product is the support from the local shop. I went to Asheville Cotton Co., the Asheville quilt shop extraordinaire, and Robin, the owner, hooked me up. I'm getting all the serger mastery classes a girl could ever ask for, for FREE!!
I've included a picture of my skirt, and also of the Persian Lamb I am going to make the coat from. If only you could feel the fabric. On the retreat front, things are happening there too. Our first Energy Retreat with Sharon Schamber is next month, so I'll be off to Payson for 4 days. My new website design is up and I love the blue chick logo Laura Jane from ChickenScratchStudio designed for me. Check it out! www.silverrainmgt.com
Until next time, Amy
