There are certain talents which I admire and would love to have - such as singing - but am sadly lacking in that department. Now while I would also love to play a musical instrument I can learn the skill, if I put my mind to it. Singing, however is not a talent I was born with. Excluding my girl cousin all the women in my family sew or knit or do embroidery. Or all three! My cousin's mom is a professional seamstress. Her sewing is BEE-U-ATIFUL!
When I started high school one of the compulsory subjects was home economics. Sewing and cooking! I was my teacher's nightmare. I burnt the cake - mine and my fellow students. I curdled the bechamel sauce. I jammed my shirt into the sewing machine. My simple quilting was stitched front to back with selvages and cotton thread sticking out all over the place. My poor teacher hoped I would find a wealthy husband who could afford chefs and tailors - then she washed her hands of me. In total despair I turned to my aunt. She and I both have a no nonsense approach to a situation (Unlike my mother who was in tears and locked herself in her bedroom at my first broken needle) Totally undaunted by my mad skills - or lack thereof - my aunt let me choose from any of her patterns and off we went to the material shop. Having full faith in my aunt's amazing skills and patience I chose a fitted skirt and jacket - complete with pleats and tucks and lining. The rest, as they say is history. Thanks to my aunt I am very proud of how far I have come in my sewing ability.
Not only can I make pretty and durable cloth diapers with matching clothing but also beautiful (yes, I can confidentally say that) ladies lingerie and men's jackets. The photos I am sharing with you are children's items which I have made recently for my little boy.
While I prefer making my own pattern and an original item of clothing; I have found Brindille and Twig. They have the most amazing children's patterns - and some adult. Her instructions are excellent and understandable. This is extremely helpful for a beginner. The styles are adorable. My current favourite is this footed romper. I have made a couple pajamas for my busy (as you can see) baby. I have also adjusted the pattern to include a hoodie and remove the feet for a warmer, winter fleece option.
Every week a post titled #NeedleWorkMonday pops up in my feed. I assumed it was knitting - yes, duh as if knitting alone uses needles! Last week 
Sewing is pretty slow going these days. You can tell my walking almost one year old keeps me on my toes. He is such an enthusiastic little boy. I love sewing for him, although living on the homestead the pretties get filthy very quickly.
I am blessed and grateful that my aunt took me under her wing. I am blessed that my sewing has allowed me to branch out to make a small income from this enjoyable skill. For those of you who would like to learn a skill - go for it! As the saying goes: you are never too old. Our incredible brain has the ability and inclination to learn. Sure there are talents that I will never have. No matter how much I may practice singing in the shower the animals still flee! But skills? Now that is a challenge we should never refuse to take on.
