Back to the drawing board

Something I love about Facebook is the ability to connect with like minded people. I can join a "group" and chat with people who have the same interests and get inspired to be a better mum/wife/business owner/seamstress. But it does have its downside, one which has lead me to make some tough choices.

Over the last week, I have been stalking one of my favourite sewing groups and watching for great sewing creations to inspire me. One lady posted she purchased a handmade outfit with flaws and was disappointed. In the end the handmade business replaced her item with their apologises but it was some of the comments from other members that had me doubting myself. Instead of feeling inspired I felt that I wasn't good enough. One comment in particular stayed with me. The handmade industry has boomed thanks to people like me, without degree's in fashion and accreditations and as a result are sending out poorly made items. A member of this group, that no doubt has helped many a n amateur sewer learn their craft and feel confident to share their goods with the wider community, made it seem that untrained people shouldn't be selling.


Yesterday, instead of sewing, I examined my clothing items, which I wanted to soon share, and picked apart their flaws. I have no idea if those flaws really exist or if I am just being too critical but as a result I will not be releasing my clothing at this stage. Seeing some of the comments from sewers, who also buy handmade clothes, complain about the quality has put me off completely. I'm not saying they are right or wrong, just the fact that something I made to being enjoyed would be so critically judged doesn't make me want to put myself out there.

The cute shorts I am so proud of, were already being sold at sample costs, so they will be released, however, all the other clothing items will not be for sale. I will, for now, stick to my softies and dolls and continue to make clothes for friends and family and perhaps look into some education classes. Being the best I can be is important and will perhaps give me confidence to face the critics.

I know this will cause some disappointment but I hope you will all continue to support us and our softies and hopefully next summer we will be ready to take on the handmade world and perhaps the critics.

xo C