Think home sewing is hanging by a thread? Not according to Beth Huntington. We talked to Beth about her blog The Renegade Seamstress (www.chicenvelopements.wordpress.com) and how the traditional craft is making a fashionable comeback.
CW: Tell us a little about yourself. How did you become interested in crafts and particularly sewing?
Beth: I’m a schoolteacher, and to me, there’s nothing better than inspiring people to become creative. As a young girl, I’d pore over craft magazines, wanting to make everything I saw. My gracious mom proudly displayed all my funky projects. She also patiently taught me to sew. I’m pretty sure my first project was a pillow to complement my bedroom’s yellow walls and lime green carpet.
CW: Why did you start a blog and how has it evolved?
Beth: I began blogging about two and a half years ago on a whim. I’ve always wanted to direct eye-candy magazine photo shoots, and my blog’s tutorials were the next best thing. I had no idea how much fun it would be, all the wonderful people I’d meet and the great challenges it would bring me!
Now, my blog has become a place where people can learn how to whip up modern outfits from outdated clothes, and upcycle home decor with some simple sewing. And the opportunities keep coming. I’m creating content for other websites and craft companies. Plus, I’ve authored a brand-new book, The Refashion Handbook: Refit, Redesign, Remake for Every Body. Writing it has been one of the best experiences of my life.
CW: What kind of relationships do you have with your readers and what are some of your most popular projects?
Beth: My subscribers are the best on the planet! I couldn’t ask for a more supportive and encouraging community. My maxi dress and skirt are among my most popular posts. And my ’60s dress refashion (the result of watching too many episodes of Mad Men) is a hit on Pinterest.
CW: Could you give us a virtual tour of your sewing room?
Beth: I just moved into a space that was an artist’s studio, and there are some wonderful ghosts there. I decorated it totally in thrift store chic with a dash of vintage ’60s and ’70s. My next dream is to create a spot where friends can get together and enjoy crafting parties.
CW: What’s your opinion of the future of home sewing?
Beth: Home sewing is absolutely making a comeback. Many young sewers are picking up needle and thread for the first time, and experienced seamstresses are dusting off their sewing machines and creating like crazy. I’m excited to see sewing become an important part of our lives again.
CW: If you were stranded on a desert island with a tiny craft bag, what would you want it to contain?
Beth: Definitely a needle and thread, so I could sew some cute outfits from palm tree leaves. I’d want to be the most well-dressed castaway ever.
CW: Do you enjoy other crafts or hobbies?
Beth: When I’m not sewing, I might be skiing in winter or wakeboarding in summer. I also love to scrapbook and make cards, refinish furniture and do DIY decorating in my new studio.
Check out Beth’s craft tutorials for How to Sew Piping and a versatile DIY pencil pouch. For more information about Beth and her blog, visit her at Renegade Seamstress.