There’s nothing like a good sewing course to really get me going.
No, not like that! I mean, to ignite my imagination and open my mind to all the new possibilities that await.
Yesterday I went on one of those courses.
I was at Coles Sewing Centre for my long-awaited instructional day on my new sewing machine, the lovely Sapphire.
When I first got her we had a bit of a bumpy start, Sapphire and I. But now, I blame only the manual. Sapphire can do no wrong. I am utterly in love.
See that stitching in the photo at the top of this post? I did that! Or rather, Sapphire did. (To be strictly precise it was one of her cousins – Coles provide the machines on the course, so my own Sapphire stayed at home).
We did lots of other stuff together, too. Buttonholes in one easy step – amazing! Embroidered patterns – wonderful! And a whole array of fancy-dan techniques.
Our instructor, Rose, was brilliant. She is the absolute repository of all knowledge when it comes to Husqvarna machines. The day was packed with tips and tricks, as well as settings and techniques.
And there was plenty of eye-candy around the place to inspire, too, from books and magazines, to beautiful threads and fabrics.
And then there was the work on display…
I wish I could give full credit to whoever created these lovely pieces. They certainly inspired me.
Some people had travelled half way across the country to attend the course. I feel very lucky to have Coles virtually on my doorstep. (Though they also do mail order).
It certainly won’t be the last time I’m there.
Now that I’m a member of the Gold Thread Club, I get discount on all sorts of lovely bits and bobs. I treated Sapphire to a few new gadgets and suchlike, which I’ll be trying out over the weeks to come. And my Christmas list is certainly growing.
I’m all fired up to start sewing again today. Can’t wait, in fact.
Firing on all cylinders, as they say.
I’ll let you know how Sapphire and I get on. ♥
Learning how to use a sewing machine is something I’ve never managed to do, I can do many types of craft, but that one will forever elude me, and such pretty things you can make with one too *sighs*
Oh, you probably just never had the right teacher Shana Rae! I bet Rose would have you sewing in no time – and wondering why it took you so long! She just has the knack of making it all sound like such commonsense that you can’t help but find it easy!
My problem is lack of coordination, my brain/foot/hand all go in different directions at different times!
Those stitches are gorgeous … I predict a beautiful future together for you and your new darling 😉 … Bee xx
I can’t actually do those lacy cutwork stitches at home yet without buying a special winged needle – I resisted on that one, but I did buy some other things to do special applique stuff with, which I’ll be trying out soon!
Wowzers that is so exciting! I think a new sewing machine is top of my Xmas list…a small contribution from many family members will hopefully add up to enough, though I don’t know if I’ll be able to stretch to a sapphire of my own! Looking forward to seeing what exciting directions you explore with yours. xx
If you get one Rachel make sure you go for a dealer that provides support, like Coles does. I’m sure there’ll be somewhere good in Bristol. It really does make all the difference to know that if you can’t make head nor tail of the manual you can phone someone up who is happy to help!
Sounds fantastic! I love hands-on courses. I’m going on a two day intensive sewing course soon, taking my sewing machine with me, and am so excited! There’s so much I want to do, but am currently clueless – am hoping this will make all the difference!
A lot depends on the teacher, but I would say you can’t fail to learn loads in a full two days! Have fun!
Oh I’m so happy for you! (And perhaps a bit jealous! :D) I wish you many, many hours of bliss with your machine!