by Diana Schonhut

Created on: March 09, 2009

In this busy day and age with a million demands on your attention and too little time to achieve them all, why would anyone want to do any sewing? It's all about individuality. Sure, these days you can buy whatever fabric items you want - clothes, home furnishings, wall art but unless you can afford an old master or to commission your own piece, someone somewhere has bought the same thing. And it's hanging on their wall too, or sitting on their sofa, or maybe they're wearing it right now. How individual is that?

You may be one of those people what want to have the same as everyone else but, let's face it, most of us grow out of that sooner or later. Although we want to follow the latest trends, we like to think we're not like the rest of the flock and that we have a flair all our own. We have a personality, a unique individuality and we want to show that to the rest of the world, both in the clothes we wear, the items in our homes and the items hanging on our walls. What better way than sewing?

Sewing in the this century is not like sewing has ever been before. Countless patterns to choose for all levels, fabrics you've never even heard of and lots of helpful advice from books, classes and magazines. The internet has opened up a new world of communication and sharing, so you can be inspired by the work of someone on the other side of the world, As for the technology, well, what can't you do? Computerized stitches, sergers and embroidery machines make it exciting to start on even the most basic project. Just think what you can make!

Does it save you money? After adding up the cost of all that technology, the fabric (and the other fabric you just have to buy) it is not cheap. And if you compare the cost of a blouse made in a sweatshop then clearly it is madness to sew your own. But we are not making an item to compare to a flimsy import, but more like a couture garment with hand-finished craftsmanship and personal attention to detail. Try putting a price on that.

Now, I'm not suggesting you have to sew everything you possibly can for you, your family or your home (though many people would, and good luck to them). If you find a perfect pair of jeans I wouldn't bother trying to replicate them and personally I draw the line at sewing underwear. But there's nothing quite as satisfying as finding the coolest fabric and making the perfect top and getting the neckline exactly how you want it. Sure it takes thought, time and effort but aren't you worth it?

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