15 July 2023
MAKING STUFF
There are two questions that I am asked most:
1)How often (much) do I work?
2)What is my favorite thing to sew?
The first question is easy to answer. I am incredibly driven and self motivated so putting in twelve hour days when I am in production mode is pretty simple for me. Yes, I do get tired, but I blast really loud music and just keep the machine going. It helps that I am extremely organized. I select my fabrics (for whatever product I’m going to be making), I cut the fabric to size (bowls require strips, aprons require four different pieces, etc.). I wind about ten bobbins, set out my thread spools, thread the machine, and start going. The iron is set up and on, and the scissors, pins/clips etc. are all laid out on the production table. I put a fresh needle in (different projects require different size needles), and I’m off. I do take breaks (my eyes get extremely tired) where I sit on my lovely window seats and look out over beautiful Ocean Blvd. Once I can focus my eyes again, I’m right back to work. I can keep this going seven days a week for about three weeks. The beauty of my work situation is I can then take time off and travel, wander on the beach, catch up with friends, etc. The cycle starts up again once I’m refreshed. I’m not sure this would work for everyone, but it does for me.
The second question is harder to answer. I don’t make products that I wouldn’t use or have in my home. I describe my textile products as usable “art.” I have always thought that you should surround yourself with things you find beautiful yet completely functional. I have never understood the concept of “saving” clothes, dishes, quilts/linens, etc. for “special occasions.” The everyday becomes much for beautiful and joyous if you are using or wearing something interesting. So….I make things that I love and enjoy having around. Sometimes I finish a bowl and think “I can’t sell that….I know just how/where I want to use it.” So it remains with me!! My textiles are meant to be used everyday. My goal is that all my customers enjoy using my aprons, bowls, quilts, etc. and love having them in their homes.
Hilary
5 July 2023
Hello Friends, neighbors, customers, fellow artists, stalkers from my past…you know…everyone,
After a long, three-year hiatus, I am emerging back into the hustle and bustle of the virtual world. The pandemic was rough on everyone and I had an additional (horrific) medical situation which I am just now getting adjusted to. So…the time has come to revamp, redesign, and reimagine my business in this new reality.
I’d like to thank the many, many customers who found my artwork and textiles….through the internet, my static website, word of mouth, shops in Chincoteague Island, etc. Your interest in my work was warming, and the purchases kept my small business chugging along. Not only did I maintain customers, my base seemed to expand every year…..so thank you.
As you can see, I have a newly designed and simplified website. Enjoy!! I hope to add additional blog postings, pics, maybe some videos on a regular basis. I’m not sure the world is ready for videos of me….but we’ll see. I will be ramping up my social media presence (Instagram/Facebook) and my online shop will open in early September.
“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.” (Helen Keller).
Let’s hope it’s a good one!!
Hilary
