Emily's sewing journey: Finding Creativity, Comfort and Community.

Emily wearing one of her makes

One of my favourite parts of running Create and Sew Studio is seeing how sewing becomes more than just stitches and fabric - it becomes a source of comfort, creativity, and connection. Today I’d love to share the story of Emily, one of our lovely regulars, whose journey with sewing started with a pair of curtains and has grown into something truly inspiring.

From curtains to confidence

Emily, 36, grew up surrounded by sewing. Her mum, a home economics teacher, often stitched up school costumes and other projects at home. Years later, Emily found herself wanting simple white curtains for her bedroom and, with her mum’s old machine at hand, decided to give it a try.

“I armed myself with YouTube and my mum’s sewing machine, but I just couldn’t get it to work,” Emily recalls. “Sadly, I couldn’t ask my mum for help as she had passed away a few years earlier. A friend mentioned Create and Sew Studio - and the rest, as they say, is history. With Dawn’s support, I not only learnt to make the curtains, I discovered a new passion.”

Sewing through life's ups and downs

For Emily, sewing quickly became more than a hobby. It became a way to feel close to her mum and to support her wellbeing.

“Learning to sew helped me in my grieving process. Sometimes I sit with a completed project and think about how proud she would have been,” she says.

Emily was also diagnosed with MS in 2018. Sewing has given her both flexibility and fulfilment on good days and bad:

• On good days, she enjoys cutting and preparing fabrics.

• On challenging days, she can slow down, hand sew, or finish smaller tasks.

“It’s almost meditative,” Emily shares. “Even on a bad day, I can still work on something, and sometimes I might even finish a project - that really lifts me.”

Projects filled with meaning

Every project Emily takes on carries its own story. She’s made bunting for her sister’s wedding, created a quilted anniversary keepsake, and even transformed leftover scraps into a full quilt with the studio’s support.

One of her most meaningful contributions has been making mastectomy pillows. After hearing about them being made at the studio, Emily began sewing them for a friend - and has now made more than 75 pillows. “I still love making them,” she says with pride.

Finding a community at Create and Sew Studio

When asked about her favourite thing at the studio, Emily smiles: “Dawn is so friendly and approachable. I don’t feel like I’m asking any old person for help - I’m asking a friend.”

Through classes, one-to-one sessions, and the welcoming atmosphere, Emily has found not only new skills but also confidence and a sense of belonging. “Whenever I’ve joined in, the community spirit has been wonderful. Everybody is so lovely, encouraging, and supportive.”

Words of wisdom

Emily admits she still gets nervous when starting new projects, but her advice for beginners is simple:“Just start. The amazing thing about sewing is everything is reversible… apart from the cutting! Don’t over-challenge yourself at first. Build your confidence step by step.”

She also reflects on how creativity has reshaped her life:“I never saw myself as creative, but now I’m always thinking about which fabrics work together. To be able to gift something I’ve made - especially with fabric that holds meaning - makes my heart so happy.”

For anyone navigating grief, illness, or big life changes, Emily offers reassurance:“Don’t bottle things up. Talk about your emotions. With MS, know that you’re not alone - find your tribe.”

Sewing as a source of joy

Emily’s story is a wonderful reminder that sewing is more than just a skill. It’s a way to connect with loved ones, nurture creativity, and find strength through life’s challenges.

Here at Create and Sew Studio, we’re so proud to be part of Emily’s journey - and we can’t wait to see what she creates next.

If Emily’s story has inspired you, why not come along and start your own sewing journey with us? We’d love to welcome you to our studio.