I have had an interest in sewing since adolescence. My mother purchased my first Singer sewing machine and a seamstress was born. I fastened many small projects including pajamas, sweat pants and skirts. In high school, I excelled in Home Economics class, my favourite subject. A decade later, I enrolled in the University of Manitoba’s Pattern Drafting class which was very beneficial when family and friends requested having fitted garments.
Pressing on, I gathered more knowledge and confidence when I was hired as a certified instructor for MacPhee Workshop for the creation of adult wool parkas complete with nylon shells. Manipulating the heavy wool when sewing was physically demanding.
Some years later, I registered for a Fashion Design course, hoping to design my own collection. After I graduated, I was offered a teaching position for the beginner class which I accepted and taught a couple of semesters before the school closed unfortunately.
My interests shifted and I caught the quilting bug. I took classes, watched on-line videos, and purchased a long arm quilting table, all to be able to fasten my own quilts. What I realized was that I really missed teaching. I was fortunate to offer evening classes via the union’s Continuing Education program at St. Boniface General Hospital. I created a 6 week quilting course which ran for five years, every spring and fall. It was immensely gratifying!
More recently, I have been a member of the Textile and Fibre Artists of Manitoba (TFAM) for the last 5 years. I have been experimenting with all types of wool and trying new techniques obtained from online videos, books and TFAM members. Most of my framed artwork are landscapes, inspired by my husband’s photography, some nature, mainly butterflies and still life. I am continually challenging myself by creating new products with fibre and find it both relaxing and rewarding!