Following the Thread
If you read Part 1, you know I didn’t fall in love with sewing right away — but somewhere between those first uneven stitches and the chaos of growing up, something clicked. This chapter is about how that spark took root — the messy, funny, real beginnings of what would become Sew What by Winter.
🧵 Sew What Are You Going to Do Now?
A Decade of Dedication: My 4-H Journey
For ten faithful years, I poured my heart into 4-H. At the time, it was more than half my life—and let me tell you, that kind of commitment leaves a mark. It shaped my work ethic, sharpened my time management skills, and gave me a deep respect for precision.
Whether good or bad, I knew exactly what it took to earn that big, beautiful purple Grand Champion ribbon (and sometimes that coveted State Fair ribbon, too).
I still have totes and totes of those ribbons and plaques tucked away. They made me feel special then… but now, nearly twenty years later, I find myself wondering: what do I do with them?
🪡 Maybe you’ve got your own “ribbons” tucked away—old achievements, projects, or passions waiting for a second chance.
From County Fairs to College Halls
Thanks to a change in the 4-H age requirements, I was actually a freshman at Vincennes University when I wrapped up my final year. And wouldn’t you know it—after all those years, I decided to pursue a degree in Fashion.
Sewing was a core class, and by that point, I was all in. Funny enough, I didn’t start out loving sewing. But somewhere along the way, I fell for it. Hard.
Dog Clothes, Baby Clothes, and Fabric Frenzies
I started sewing dog clothes and baby clothes for friends and family. I didn’t even have a dog—but let’s be honest, sewing for a pup is way less complicated than sewing for a squirmy human baby. Fewer pieces, faster results!
My best friend’s dog became my reluctant model when I tried selling my creations. I did okay—broke even, mostly—but the real joy came from the process.
And yes, I bought way more fabric than I needed. It was on sale! I had ideas! Have you ever walked into Joann’s Fabric store? It was like a toy store for grown-up crafters.
I didn’t buy plain fabric either. Oh no. I went for shiny, beaded, tie-dyed—anything that sparkled or sang to my soul.
🧶 If you know, you know.
The Dress That Danced with Feathers
Back in college, I soaked up everything my professor taught me and spent hours perfecting my garments. One piece in particular stands out—a long, flowing black dress made from shiny fabric that shimmered with every step.
To give it my signature 4-H flair, I decided to add peacock feathers to the hem. Not just a few—each feather was hand-sewn, one by one, over days of meticulous work. The contrast against the dark fabric was stunning.
And guess what? That dress won Grand Champion locally and advanced to the Indiana State Fair, where I earned 1st Runner-Up out of all categories. I even got a week-long trip to tour Washington, D.C.
Talk about going out with a bang!
Sewing as a Soulful Outlet
Looking back, I’m so grateful I gave sewing a chance. It became a creative outlet, a source of joy, and a way to connect with others.
I learned so much—technically and emotionally—and now I want to share that with you.
🪡 Sewing isn’t just about fabric and thread. It’s a way to piece yourself back together, too.
Once you learn the basics, just follow the lines—literally. Everything is marked for you. Once you crack the code, the possibilities are endless.
Your Turn to Thread the Needle
So here’s my invitation to you: no matter your age, background, or experience level, sewing can be your sanctuary.
I’ll walk you through the basics, cheer you on through the wobbly stitches, and celebrate every crooked seam and creative triumph.
Sew what are you going to do now?
Try this: revisit a moment when you almost gave up on something creative. What helped you stay? What might help you now? Write it down—or better yet, stitch it into something soft.
Coming up next: The turning point.
I’ll share how I reclaimed joy, redefined success, and began building Sew What into a sanctuary.
🌸 Series Navigation
➡️ Part 1: What Comes to Mind When You Hear “Sewing”?
🌿 You’re reading Part 2: Sew What Started It All
➡️ Part 3: Sew What Happened? Life, Love, and the Lost Thread
💌 Join the Sew What Circle
If this story resonated, I’d love to welcome you into the Sew What Circle — a cozy little corner for creative souls. You’ll get behind-the-scenes musings, printable prompts, and gentle reminders to make space for what lights you up.
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