I made this Mini Market Tote with my beginners in mind. When I was planning out projects to teach in class, that Trader Joe’s tote was everywhere—and the markup on it? I couldn’t believe it. So I took that general idea and created my own version. I wanted something with a classic shape that would be beginner-friendly, but still give my students a chance to learn real bag-making techniques. It needed to fit into a 3-hour class block, but still cover things like boxing corners,

This year, I’ve placed a much stronger focus on bag making. We’re still in the first quarter, and I’ve already made more than sixteen bags, many of them in preparation for the bag-making classes I teach at a local sewing school. It was a bit of a realization as I was planning out my classes. If I hadn’t already made the bag I planned to teach, I probably should. Not only to have photos and examples of what my students will aspire to create, but also to ensure I can troublesho

This dress came with a mix of highlights, outtakes, and a healthy lesson in patience. This was my second time sewing Simplicity S9539 , this time using Minerva’s Exclusive Timber Tiger viscose challis , and while I went in knowing what to expect, the pattern still asked for my full attention. It’s one of those makes that looks simple at first glance but really shines only after you put in the work to make it your own. THE PATTERN: This dress is Simplicity S9539 , and this was

Happy New Year! As we step into 2026, I’ve been taking time to reflect on the past year and all the ways it stretched, challenged, and excited me. Last year marked a major milestone in my life: my retirement after serving 21 years and 21 days in the United States Air Force. That chapter represents a profound professional accomplishment. Two decades of sustained service, adaptability, and commitment. Leadership changes, moves across the country and abroad, TDYs, deployments, a

If you had told me a year ago that I’d be hosting my own sewing events — with people sipping wine, cheering each other on, and proudly holding up bags they made with their own hands — I would’ve laughed and said, “Yeah, okay… maybe one day.” It's definitely been something I've wondered about, but actually seeing it come to fruition was beautiful. Hosting this event had been on my heart for a long time. I’ve always wanted to teach bag making — not just because I love it, but

If you’re new to bag making or just want to sew without spending a dime, this one’s for you.

You Don’t Need an Industrial Machine to Sew Better Bags, you just need the right techniques.

What started out as an entry for the KISS – Keep It Simplicity Sis challenge quickly spiraled into something so much better: my new favorite dress. The challenge was simple—make something from a Simplicity pattern—but somewhere between picking and cutting fabric this dress gave-Spotlight. And honestly? I’m not mad about it. THE PATTERN: I used Simplicity 9544, Misses Dresses & Jumpsuits. It’s rated Easy to Sew and has three views. Each view showcases elastic on the sleeves

Some dresses are cute. Others are comfy. But this one? She’s got presence. When I picked this polka dot canvas, I wasn’t playing it...

Sometimes, a piece comes along that does all the talking for you—and these red pants? They’ve got plenty to say. When I started...

I’ve been dreaming of a pair of gardening overalls, so I finally decided to make my own! They have become my backyard staple. Every. ...

Misses Jumpsuit: New Look 6554 I'm always admiring florals on others, but I'm convinced I'm just not a florals girl! But, I am becoming a...

Misses Dress & Jumpsuit: Simplicity 9597 I've been crushing on this dress for so very long. It has been made by so many, using all...

Misses' Dress: New Look 6491 So, I'm finally sharing this shirt I made last year during my deployment to Europe. It was one of first...

Misses woven dress: McCalls 8361 Hey y'all! It's National sewing month and I've been sewing my butt off. This dress is made using Ankara...

This style of bag has been all over my timeline, Pinterest board, I often see someone carrying it when I’m out and about, it’s...

The shacket was all the rave last year, and I think they are still pretty popular. I mean, who knows. I only know that I was a big fa,...