INSPIRATION

The heart of my hometown, Middletown, Ohio inspired me to become part of the Pendleton Art Center. The revitalization of our downtown and nostalgia for the old buildings and history of Middletown led me to the Pendleton. I knew I wanted to belong to a community that creates and grows, and inspires others to do the same.

MY STUDIO AND PASSIONS

You'll find a mix of vintage and upcycled clothing in my studio. I use my sewing skills to give garments new life by upcycling clothing and vintage fabrics, and sometimes incorporating vintage sewing patterns from the 1940s, 50s, and 60s. I love to use a discarded men's shirt to create a new ladies blouse or little girl's dress.

BACKGROUND

My mother taught me to sew on an old black Singer sewing machine. I was lucky enough to find an exact replica of it at an estate sale, in perfect running condition. It's in my studio now! As a schoolgirl, my friends and I took summer sewing lessons at a Singer Sewing Store. And I've been sewing ever since, making my own clothes, and sewing gifts for others.

SHARING THE LOVE

Sewing is a creative expression of style that teaches patience, problem solving, and resourcefulness. I teach sewing in my studio to teens and adults. I hope that sewing skills make a difference for them, as it did for me.