Reflecting on 2025
As the year draws to a close, I find myself naturally reflecting — not just on what I’ve made, but on what sewing has given me beyond the finished garments, patterns, projects and workshops. As always or me, sewing has been a constant thread running through the year, offering creativity, calm, challenge, and connection in equal measure.
Sewing as a Space to Pause
In a world that often feels fast and noisy, sewing has continued to be my place to slow down. There’s something deeply grounding about the rhythm of stitching, measuring, cutting, and pressing. It asks for focus, patience, and presence — things that can be hard to come by in everyday life.
This year, more than ever, sewing has reminded me that it’s okay to take things one step at a time. A seam doesn’t have to be rushed. A mistake doesn’t mean failure. Sometimes unpicking is just as valuable as sewing the seam in the first place.
Some projects came together beautifully; others taught me far more than I expected — usually the hard way. Fit issues, fabric choices that didn’t quite work, or techniques that needed refining all became opportunities to learn.
Sewing has a wonderful way of building resilience. You learn to problem-solve, adapt, and try again. Those skills don’t stay at the cutting table — they quietly filter into the rest of life too.
The Power of Handmade
There’s a particular satisfaction in wearing or using something you’ve made yourself. Handmade pieces carry stories: the fabric you chose, the adjustments you made, the moment it finally came together. In a culture of fast fashion and instant results, sewing continues to feel like a small but meaningful act of resistance.
Community, Connection, and Shared Creativity
One of the greatest joys of sewing this year has been tutoring and teaching others. Classes, workshops, and one-to-one sessions have been a huge part of my year, and they continue to remind me that sewing isn’t a solitary pursuit — it’s a communal one.
Supporting students as they build skills, tackle tricky techniques, and grow in confidence has been incredibly rewarding. Whether it’s helping someone achieve a better fit, understand a pattern, or simply trust their instincts at the machine, those moments of breakthrough and pride never get old. Teaching and learning side by side continues to be one of the most rewarding parts of my work.
Looking Ahead
As I look towards the new year, I’m carrying these reflections with me: to sew with intention, to embrace imperfection, and to keep creating space for creativity and rest. Sewing doesn’t have to be about productivity or perfection — sometimes it’s simply about joy.
Thank you to everyone who has shared a stitch, a conversation, or a moment of creativity with me this year. Here’s to another year of learning, making, and finding calm at the sewing machine.
Happy sewing — and happy new year.
Sewing With Me in the New Year
If you’ve been thinking about learning to sew, developing your skills, or carving out some creative time for yourself, I’d love to support you. From relaxed beginner-friendly sessions to more in-depth workshops focused on fit, technique, and confidence, my tutoring is all about making sewing accessible, enjoyable, and empowering.
You can find details of upcoming classes and workshops, or get in touch to discuss one-to-one tutoring. Let’s make the coming year one filled with creativity, curiosity, and beautifully handmade pieces — stitched at your own pace.