The Mini Market Tote: A Simple Bag You’ll Actually Use + Free pattern
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 […]
How Teaching Bag Classes Changed the Way I Choose Sewing Patterns
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. […]
Second Time’s the Charm (Mostly): Sewing Simplicity S9539
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 […]
Reflections on 2025 & What’s Ahead for 2026
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. […]
My First Sip & Stitch event
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, […]
5 Free Tote Bag Patterns Every New Bag Maker Should Try (+ 2 Honorable Mentions)
If you’re just getting started with bag making, one of the best things you can do for your skills and your wallet is explore FREE patterns. When I tell you I learned this the hard way… trust me! I’ve wasted more money than I care to admit on patterns I thought I’d use but […]
Reminder: You Don’t Need an Industrial Machine to Sew Better Bags
Every time I post a new bag, someone asks, “What machine are you using?” Like the machine can make a bag all by itself. And it’s not just a piece of machinery — it’s only as good as its user. And listen… I get it. The sewing world can make you feel like you have […]
Keeping it Simple…and Fabulous: Simplicity 9544
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 […]
This Ain’t a Dress—It’s a Whole Mood.Pattern: Monica Dress by The Fashionable Therapist
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 safe—I wanted structure, sass, and just the right amount of vintage drama. The Monica Dress delivers all that and still leaves room to twirl. It’s giving Sunday brunch and gallery opening. […]
Classic sun dress with a beautiful twist
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 different types of fabrics and so many different adjustments. It took me a while to decide what fabric to use, however, I think this may b my best pattern/fabric combo! […]