I was in elementary school when my mother taught me to sew. The first big project I made completely on my own–a dress– was hard, definitely, but I am nothing if not dogged and focused when I put my mind to something. The pattern had the option of using two coordinating fabrics which I decided to attempt. I made the whole thing scrap pieces from my mother’s ample collection.
I worked for hours and hours on that dress, even adding buttons up the straight skirt. I was so proud of myself, but what I remember most is how proud my mom was. That was the beginning of a lifelong love of sewing.
Fast-forward thirty-something years. I still sew, but my five kids, my former career as a teacher, and my current career as a full-time writer have zapped my free time. Sewing isn’t something I can do everyday or even every week. It’s one of those luxuries I fit in every chance I get.
So what is a fabric-aholic, craft-lover, creative writer girl to do if she can’t actually sew as much as she’d like?
Create a cozy mystery series that revolves around sewing, of course!
Pleating for Mercy, the debut book in A Magical Dressmaking mystery series, features fashion designer Harlow Cassidy, a descendent of Butch Cassidy. She’s all I need to get my sewing fix. I get to research fabrics, fashion, style, and accessories. I get to write about sewing machines, technique, and notions. And I get to peruse bridal magazines, books on Victorian fashions, and anything else that strikes my sewing fancy. It may not be the same as sitting down at my Pfaff and creating a color-blocked dress or a quilted tote, but it works.
For now.
Thank you, Mom!
I absolutely loved your book and finished it in 2 days. My only experience sewing is home-ec in school. I did not enjoy it at that age but have wanted to learn for a couple of years now. Reading your book, the passion for sewing came thru loud and clear. I cannot wait for the next one…and the next….and well you get the picture.
Lori, thank you so (sew?!) much. I’ve received some amazing emails from people who’ve responded to Pleating for Mercy. It fills my heart!
My mom taught me how to sew too. She gave me the materials and let me go! I also learned to embroider. I don’t have time to sew either and I love it! It gave me so much joy to create something. I’ve made formal dresses, costumes, my baby’s nursery stuff, Christmas outfits for my kids. curtains and a duvet cover… We are lucky that our moms shared this with us! I did teach my bff to sew too.
Monica,
I couldn’t agree more! I feel like it’s a dying art sometimes, and my daughter loves it and hates it. I love it, too, and wish I had more time. I’m trying to make the time so I can continue to teach her. I made so many baby clothes, quilts, pillow covers, valances, etc! We are lucky.
I have to admit, I’m intrigued! You’re the first fabric-a-holic I’ve met that turned her addiction into a writing career! Nice job!
I totally adored Pleating For Mercy, finished it in one night. There are many “crafty” cozy mystery series popping up, but this is the only one I’ve found with genuine dressmaking involved. Add in some magic & a friendly ghost & what more could I ask for? For someone with a fabric stash of thousands of yards & to whom sewing is like breathing — well — what can I say — I’m in heaven! Would just LOVE to see Harlow’s dress sketches — that would be the icing on the cake for me!!!! Can hardly wait for the next in the series.. and the next.. and the next!!! Bring ‘em on! (and do give her a shot at dressing Heidi one day!)
I learned to sew in an after school program in 4th gr. Many years later I found myself designing my own patterns. I have taught my daughter to sew as well. She is not as interested, but she has managed to make a couple pairs of pajamas.
I think that incorporating your sewing knowledge into a cozy it terrific. I love the crafting type mysteries.
Hope you like it, Lynne!
Steph, I love that you learned to sew in an after school program. I wish there were more opportunities for kids to keep learning to sew.
Margaret. thank you! What a great idea about Harlow’s designs. Will have to work on that!
Misa, I loved seeing Lola this morning on GMT!!