Brand spanking new sewing machine

I'm about to embark into the world of sewing again. It's been over 15 years since I laid down my pinking shears, bias tape and shoe boxes stuffed with old patterns. Why did I give it up and why am I taking it up again? Both tough questions.

My introduction to sewing was in Home Ec in seventh grade, but it was mother who taught me and my two sisters all the important things we needed to know about sewing. How to lay out the pattern on the grain of the fabric, to press (iron) every seam before moving on to the next step, to hand baste the hem, and how to take turns on the one sewing machine the four of us shared. I learned to love to sew and for the next twenty three years I stitched everything I could including my wedding gown, my daughter's layette and many of her clothes when she was younger than ten. I took a two-year apparel design course at our community college where I learned to make a tailored wool coat. I mean I loved to sew!

And then I got busy with other things, which is entirely another story, and I stopped sewing. Cold turkey.


Two years ago I gave away my old sewing machine that I had bought in college. The inexpensive model from JCPenneys that was to get me by until I could afford the top of the line. I gave it away because it was taking up space in my closet floor and I thought maybe someone out there might by happy to sew with it. Then last year I felt like I might want to sew again. Not my wardrobe like last time, but perhaps some simple things like a tote bag or decorating journal pages with fabric. Nothing too complicated.

My husband put a brand spanking new sewing machine under the Christmas tree for me this year. I have to admit that I picked it out ahead of time and steered him right toward it. It's capable of sewing button holes in a matter of seconds and has more embroidery stitches than I might ever use. When I opened the box I was surprised at how light weight it is, I can lift it easily with one hand unlike the heavy metal one my mother shared with us. It feels like a new toy. I'm savoring the instruction booklet which is unlike me. I know that threading the machine and winding the bobbin will be like reconnecting with an old friend. And with my mother.