Hi Neighbor!
As a young girl, I learned how to sew, first in 4-H where I was taught basic stitches and how to sew buttons on a shirt, and then in Home Economics class where I was taught more advanced skills like how to make actual clothes. There is no need to relive the terrible terrycloth short set I made in junior high, all the rage of the decade, but let it be noted, I learned how to sew.
Fast forward to present day where I was recently challenged to bring my limited talents out of retirement for one evening of camaraderie and fun.
A few years ago, I was fortunate to meet the owner and creative genius behind Christine Shirley Sewing and Design Studio during a workout at my gym. Paige, a smart, savvy young entrepreneur, is passionate about sewing and is introducing this craft to young kids up and down the Main Line. Guess what? It’s popular! A hot ticket for summer camps, mini camps on weekends, and Girls’ Night Out (GNO)for moms like me who want to sit behind the machine once again.
Last week, Paige invited a group of women from our gym to her studio for a GNO event. Barely recognizable to one another donning makeup and street clothes, we were giddy and ready to get started. Patiently, Paige guided us through how to operate the sewing machine, including threading the needle and the bobbin, and how to be gentle on the pedal. Once the group mastered these skills, we practiced on scrap pieces of cloth to get the feel of the machine. Next each participant selected bright patterns of material and once again followed her instructions to create a small, cinched pouch to carry our heart rate monitors from the gym. Colorful, creative, genius.
Surprisingly, I remembered some of the routine and order to prepping the sewing machine but also noted how much easier it is to move the cloth under the needle using today’s sleek machine. The best part was watching a community of women come together to create something for themselves using their own hands. The joy in the room was contagious.
This charming studio is located in the heart of downtown Wayne and will soon be celebrating its tenth year in business. To find out dates and to sign up for camps, visit the Christine Shirley website. Don’t forget, it’s a perfect outing for moms, too!
Still stitching,
Jackie
