BERNINA Corporate Blog -
Sewing friends, let’s have a little heart-to-heart.
You know how much I love sharing my sewing projects with you—whether it’s a self-drafted top or a full-on #MeMade wardrobe moment.
But here’s the thing: when people find out that I sew for a living, it often leads them to asking me if I can hem their pants/shorten their straps/fix their broken zip…etc.
And honestly? I don’t want to do that for you. 😅
BUT, I’d love to teach you how to do it yourself!
More Than Just Hemming 🙌
Let’s do a thought experiment. Would you ask a software engineer to fix your Wi-Fi or a journalist to correct your kid’s homework? Probably not!
They’ve spent years perfecting their craft, and setting up a printer might not be the best way to utilise their skillset or ignite their enthusiasm.
The same thing applies when you ask for alterations. Sure, I can mend that tear, but it’s not why I’m passionate about sewing. 💡
Let’s Talk About Creative Joy ✂️🎨
For me, sewing is about the joy of creating something unique with my own two hands, solving intricate design puzzles, endless experimentation, the aesthetic and tactile interplay of colour, pattern and texture and engineering a three-dimensional form out of a two-dimensional plain of fabric, to name but a few things.
It’s engaging, it’s immersive, it’s a way to tap into that coveted flow state (much like in painting or pottery, my other great passions).
Asking me to mend the rip in your pants is like asking your landscape gardener friend to mow your lawn.
They could do it (and probably would, if they were a nice friend), but wouldn’t it be way more inspirational to have your landscaping buddy concept the entire garden; to transform that ordinary lawn into a breathtaking sanctuary oasis ?
Learn, and You’ll Love It Too! 💪✨
Instead of dropping off your clothes for me to fix, why not learn how to do it yourself? Being able to mend and alter your own clothes isn’t just practical, it’s liberating.
Imagine being able to tweak that favourite dress without having to ask for help. It’s like unlocking a new level of self-sufficiency.
Trust me, it’s easier than you think, and once you’ve got it down, you’ll feel so accomplished.
In an age of outsourcing it can be tempting to get other people to do everything for you.
But being able to tackle one’s own obstacles encourages resourcefulness, resilience and self-confidence. Having a can-do attitude goes a long way in life!
Not to mention, the DIY maker community is a pretty cool bunch. We famously occupy the nicest corner of the Internet, so why not join us?! And if you needed any more convincing…
Good for the Environment 🌍
Fast fashion isn’t doing the planet any favours, in fact the textile industry is one of Earth’s main polluters (second only to the oil industry, yikes).
Learning to alter what you already have is a small but powerful way to make a difference.
We are lucky to live in an era of abundance, but that doesn’t mean we get to be wasteful, or lazy!
Remember the slogan from wartime Britain: Make Do and Mend? Let’s give it a 21st century rebrand:
Make do and Mend it Yourself, Please.
Hello Leannelikaiyou have made a lovely blue denim jacket, is it a pattern you made yourself,regards,Lester
Hello! The blue denim jacket is actually the In The Folds Ormond Coat pattern in view B: https://shop.inthefolds.com/collections/all/products/ormond-coat
Please can you tell me where do I find out how to mend and alter my clothes, like you mention teaching me how to do it?
Hi Valerie, thanks for your message! I would suggest exploring the options in your local community, a Google search should bring up some results in your area. This could look like an independently run sewing school where you can try out short workshops, or a course at a college/university/vocational institution. If there is nothing available in person close by, there are plenty of online courses you can sign up for. Try checking out Skillshare or Domestika for example. If you don’t wish to subscribe there are so many free tutorials available on YouTube. If you start there I’m sure it will lead you on a long and interesting journey of discovery. Hope this helps! Best wishes, Leanne
Hi Leanne,I understand how you feel, I don’t know how many have said “Oh, you could sew my wedding dress for me!” or asked me to mend things. For some I do it because I see how they appreciate it and they don’t have the equipment, but I prefer to teach them to do it themselves! There are so many ways this knowledge comes in handy. Also, your article reminded me of an Instagram account I follow, with stories about requests. Reading these stories taught and prepared me how to say No and ask to be fairly compensated for my skills. Here’s the profile in case anyone is interested to read these stories too “Can you sew this for me?”
Thanks for linking to that Instagram account Ramona, I have seen it before and chuckled to myself! 🙂