Creative of the Month: Liz

Introduce yourself to our community

I learnt to sew as a kid - my mum was a dress maker. I used to arrive home from school and mum would have made surprise new clothes for my dolls. she bought me a second hand Singer treadle machine for my 8th birthday.

I've been sewing ever since I sewed my own clothes (and altered second hand clothes to fit) all through high school and university and then got back into sewing in my 40's when I discovered that suddenly there were a tonne of Indie designers.

I bought a sewing machine and discovered all the new fabric shops now I live/work to sew - I have my own sewing room with heaps of cupboards and bookcases and a couch (and dog bed) for hanging out when I'm not sewing.

love trying new things - jeans, tailoring, swimwear...closet core classes are fantastic for these. inspired by ready to wear - especially Zimmermann - "Zimspiration". also very inspired by the incredible makers on instagram - what a group of people!

Local Inspiration

What's the best seasonal event or festival in your area that celebrates creativity, craft, or textiles?

Newcastle frocktails I guess

Your Craft

Your Sewing Specialties
What kind of sewing do you love most? (Garments, quilting, mending, embroidery, etc.)

Currently sewing a hacked Marilla Walker "Isca" shirtdress with neck and cuff ruffles which I kind of imagine being layering piece - I'm using 8oz washed black denim and it's killing my hands and taking ages but hopefully will turn out ok. there are knitting projects next to every couch/bed

Your favourite sewing pattern
What is your all-time favourite sewing pattern and why?

Um, the Fibremood "Gedda" skirt is a gorgeous design - gathered onto a shaped yoke. I've sewn 6 of them I think.

Current Projects

What project/s do you have currently on the go?

Currently sewing a hacked Marilla Walker "Isca" shirtdress with neck and cuff ruffles which I kind of imagine being layering piece - I'm using 8oz washed black denim and it's killing my hands and taking ages but hopefully will turn out ok. there are knitting projects next to every couch/bed

Dive into the vibrant world of Liz on Instagram: @swimbikeknit