There was a time when I sewed to save money. I was just out of college and had more time than I could even imagine now on my hands and very little scratch. I took my pennies and bought a cheap sewing machine. Then I haunted the fabric sales and put together a stunning wardrobe (at least that's how I remember it).
It seems since then however, the world has gone all topsy turvy and now the price of the fabric alone is higher than the price of a finished garment! Never mind the thread, buttons, ribbons and rick rack to make it extra special.
I suppose it's still cheaper than buying something from a high end designer, but it's way more than the sale rack at Marshalls.
And still, I forge ahead because sewing is no longer just about saving money, I suppose. It's the satisfaction of taking a flat piece of cloth and turning it into a (hopefully) flattering skirt, shirt or dress. It's also about being able to make what I want the way I want, although I'm still working on that aspect of it.
This post is sparked, not surprisingly, by a trip to the fabric store. I'll admit that I'm not a math whiz, and that is part of my problem, but the bill was 30 percent more than I expected!
So here's my commercial:
one yard purple tinker bell fabric: $9 (at 25 percent off)
thread: $2.50
one spool of Bright green ribbon: $3.99
Happy child in swirly new dress: priceless
3 comments:
I doubt there is a hobby left that is about saving money. :) Woodworking. Pottery. Sewing. Knitting. Spinning.
If you start sewing a lot again, you will soon find yourself with quite a stash of thread and other notions (hopefully, all purchased at a JoAnn's / Hancock's 50% off sale.) I can't tell you the last time I paid full price for anything at either of those stores. And speaking of which, all notions at JoAnn's are 50% off (Friday-Monday) and Hancocks are 50% off on Monday only.
I've given you an imagination award. See my blog for details!
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