Ilona, what a lovely story! Although I do not sew, other than for occasional mending, I greatly appreciate the work of those with the talent and perseverance to do so. For that reason I often buy clothing and other items that are handmade for their quality and craftsmanship.
I’m responding today because I wanted to recommend a book for you. It is called “The Lion Women of Tehran” by Marjan Kamali. I just finished it and came away with new admiration for women through the centuries who have worked quietly and facelessly on Persian rugs yet have never received the recognition they deserve. Nevertheless their work is coveted and displayed all over the world.The story itself is very compelling and takes place in the Iran under the rule of the Shah and later under the reign of the Ayatollahs.
The older I get, the more important are these connections to elders. What, I wonder, will connect us to the now-young and the yet-unborn. I’m fortunate to be crafty so I have many options. For others this might be challenging, but still worth the effort.
I have friends who sew, really sew, and make beauty, and I'm amazed and in awe. I can't even sew a hem. I love the visible mending. It's fun and whizical. Happy sewing and teaching your granddaughter, Ilona.
Your distinction between sewing out of necessity versus sewing for joy truly hit home for me. I can remember countless times when I approached a task, whether it was cooking a meal or organizing a space, purely from a utilitarian perspective. It had to be done, so I did it. But there have been moments, often unexpected, when the process itself transformed, and suddenly, the "chore" became something else entirely—a creative outlet, a form of self-expression, even a kind of moving meditation.
It's about perception, isn't it? It's about choosing to see the beauty and the creativity in the everyday acts of maintenance and creation.
Yes, it is about perception. I notice when I'm overwhelmed, my perception is that it's just another thing to do. I can and do have moments when mundane chores are moments of pride and joy. It's all about the mindset!
What a great story, Ilona! I took sewing in Home Ec in junior high and learned valuable skills. I don't have a sewing machine, but can easily hem pants, darn my favorite socks or sew on buttons. When I mention this to friends, I'm surprised that they don't know how to do these simple tasks. Maybe Handarbeit is a lost art, which makes me sad.
I had my daughters in a sewing class when they were preteens, and they made beautiful items I still have. I don't think either of them owns a needle and thread today. Speaking of socks, I purposely buy socks that advertise that they won't get holes, and somehow they still always do. There was a time when I just threw the socks away. But I've gone back to darning them since I finally have a bit more time and it seems so wasteful to get rid of them.
I love this story, especially because the joy of sewing has made its way back to me as well in the last few years. A good well-serviced sewing machine can make all the difference in the world. After many years I bought a new machine and I'm so happy I made the investment. Sewing has now become as important as time in my garden when it comes to calming my senses. I put aside time at least a few days a week for sewing. And speaking of value, the masseuse in our little town needed some new aprons. She asked me if I would make her a few, and in return she would provide me with a few massages. I'm just finishing my sixth apron for her. Good stuff! Oh, and my goodness, that needlepoint that your mother made is absolutely gorgeous. Thanks for sharing, Ilona.
First of all, your mother’s embroidery is exquisite! Your story is a treasure of memories that you can now pass on to your grandchildren. Funny how that Singer sewing machine was so popular “back in the day” as my son loves to say. I took lessons at our local Singer sewing center as a pre-teen and won a contest for making a dress but I did not enjoy sewing. My twin, on the other hand is the creative half. She is very artistic and I am the science-based half. We complement each other well. I thoroughly enjoyed this, right down to you making clothes because you’re 5’10”. I used to be 5’11”, so I certainly understand that clothes dilemma. Sew on, Ilona.
Thank you, Jan. I love how you and your twin complement each other, each with your own unique skills and attributes. I'm curious-- are you identical twins?
We are fraternal twins and barely look like sisters. Other than both having curly hair, we look very different. I look more like my brother who is 8 years younger. Genetics, funny stuff.
An inspiring read! My mother fled her home country of Canada, and her very traditional crafty mother. She left behind any desire to do handiwork herself, although she did try to knit a single afghan throw for maybe a decade. Other than a spell of embroidery fever when I was 11, I've been handiwork free, and now also filled with regret about that. My kids are all much craftier than me, and I wonder if it's too late for me to start making things with my (slightly arthritic) hands?? Oy vey. The only thing we are missing here is a photo of you in the dress!
So funny I would read this today. Yesterday, I was gathering up supplies in my art studio that I rarely use and thinking about my habit of putting away and taking back up hobbies. I bought a large bin and was emptying drawers but determining not to really "get rid" of any of it in case I wanted to use the supplies again in the future. I stood looking at my beloved sewing machine. I thought..."should I get rid of that?" After all, I haven't sewed anything other than a repair for a very long time. I used to really enjoy sewing. I began sewing clothes when I was 18 (simple hippie garb) and then sewed intricate clothes for my daughter and niece (they each had velvet coats and bonnets filled with embroidery). I did cross stitch, needlepoint, and quilts, even hand quilting some of them. I loved it all. But I haven't done this for years, trading in my needle for my paint brushes. This post has changed my mind, Ilona. I'm keeping my sewing machine. And I'm going to remember how to use it. I love that word, "Handarbeit." Your mother's needlework is exquisite!
You are the whole package, girl, simply amazing. You design your own fabric, paint, draw... what don't you do? Yes, get that sewing machine out! How lovely your daughter and niece must have looked in their velvet embroidered coats and bonnets.
What a gift this story was to me, Ilona! My mother was a seamstress, knitter, and needlepointer all rolled into one. As I read your post, it brought back the beautiful handiwork she engaged me in. For a long time, I knitted baby hats and sewed my children's play outfits, particularly holiday wear with matching fabrics. It was fun, creative, and, oh, so appreciated. I even cross-stitched baby items for friends. Now, my creativity has shifted in other directions, such as writing and volunteering, but perhaps it is time to revisit some of those old skills?
Time is scarce even at our age. My mother used to do needlepoint while she watched TV. I'm not able to do that. I have to concentrate on one thing or the other. The point is you make time when you want to do something, and I think you need to water that seed a bit, Candy!
I also used to sew - my mother always sewed some of our clothes and when I was in 8th grade I was sent for sewing lessons. From there, every fall I sewed some of my clothes and these were “filled in” with clothes from the store. For me, what happened was lack of time and also it started to get more expensive to make the clothes (pattern, material buttons, zipper etc) along with the time. I’ve always enjoyed doing crafts and now that I have some time, I’ve been doing more. It’s a way of relaxing. I think if I shared it somewhere- linkin or anywhere it would be more of a “job” to me.
Clothes got to be so inexpensive, didn't they? You easily spend more for something similar at the store. I'm starting to view what I wear, including the clothing, jewelry, and accessories, as more of a work of art. Your outward appearance transmits a message whether you care or not.
I very recently returned to embroderiey and needlework after a 45 year absence, I have been delighted to discover that substack and other forms of media have creators who share their incredible ideas and work. Pulling out my sewing machine is next.
I am also delighted by embroiderers on Substack. I subscribed to Elin Petronella a while ago, and was blown away by her embroidery art. She is leaving Substack, but I hope to enroll in one of her online classes. Since you wrote about other embroidery creators on here, I searched and subscribed to some new ones. Thanks for the inspo, Beverly!
What a wonderful piece which highlights the joys of self generated creativity, industriousness, thrift, and artisanship.
My grandmother was a wonderful seamstress and often took great delight in making elegant dresses for my mother. I buried my mom in one of these creations complete with sequins and brocade and she looked like a queen at her wake. On this day 34 years ago, she died at the young age of 59. Your piece today brought back so many warm remembrances. Thank you so much, my
Hi TBG! Nice to hear from you. What a lovely sendoff for your mom, to be adorned in a dress made by her mother. So fitting, so profound. Thank you for sharing 💙
Ilona, what a lovely story! Although I do not sew, other than for occasional mending, I greatly appreciate the work of those with the talent and perseverance to do so. For that reason I often buy clothing and other items that are handmade for their quality and craftsmanship.
I’m responding today because I wanted to recommend a book for you. It is called “The Lion Women of Tehran” by Marjan Kamali. I just finished it and came away with new admiration for women through the centuries who have worked quietly and facelessly on Persian rugs yet have never received the recognition they deserve. Nevertheless their work is coveted and displayed all over the world.The story itself is very compelling and takes place in the Iran under the rule of the Shah and later under the reign of the Ayatollahs.
Thank you for the recommendation. I will be listening to the story on my daily walks and report back!
Ah, there's nothing like good old fashion "Handarbeit" to soothe the soul in this madcap materialistic world.
Thanks for picking up on that, Frederick. Yes, it feels like something sacred, a way to fight the establishment.
The older I get, the more important are these connections to elders. What, I wonder, will connect us to the now-young and the yet-unborn. I’m fortunate to be crafty so I have many options. For others this might be challenging, but still worth the effort.
I'm so happy I didn't miss this post.
I have friends who sew, really sew, and make beauty, and I'm amazed and in awe. I can't even sew a hem. I love the visible mending. It's fun and whizical. Happy sewing and teaching your granddaughter, Ilona.
Nice to hear from you! I missed you.
That's such a nice thing to say!
So funny that you say that because I’ve been doing the same!
I loved this! Can't sew, but I sure do admire people who develop their talent to produce amazingly beautiful things.
Thanks! I'm having fun with it.
Great! I’ve decided why do anything if it’s not fun, I’m too old to do boring 😁 Have fun, Ilona!
Your distinction between sewing out of necessity versus sewing for joy truly hit home for me. I can remember countless times when I approached a task, whether it was cooking a meal or organizing a space, purely from a utilitarian perspective. It had to be done, so I did it. But there have been moments, often unexpected, when the process itself transformed, and suddenly, the "chore" became something else entirely—a creative outlet, a form of self-expression, even a kind of moving meditation.
It's about perception, isn't it? It's about choosing to see the beauty and the creativity in the everyday acts of maintenance and creation.
Such a great article. 🩵
Yes, it is about perception. I notice when I'm overwhelmed, my perception is that it's just another thing to do. I can and do have moments when mundane chores are moments of pride and joy. It's all about the mindset!
What a great story, Ilona! I took sewing in Home Ec in junior high and learned valuable skills. I don't have a sewing machine, but can easily hem pants, darn my favorite socks or sew on buttons. When I mention this to friends, I'm surprised that they don't know how to do these simple tasks. Maybe Handarbeit is a lost art, which makes me sad.
I had my daughters in a sewing class when they were preteens, and they made beautiful items I still have. I don't think either of them owns a needle and thread today. Speaking of socks, I purposely buy socks that advertise that they won't get holes, and somehow they still always do. There was a time when I just threw the socks away. But I've gone back to darning them since I finally have a bit more time and it seems so wasteful to get rid of them.
I love this story, especially because the joy of sewing has made its way back to me as well in the last few years. A good well-serviced sewing machine can make all the difference in the world. After many years I bought a new machine and I'm so happy I made the investment. Sewing has now become as important as time in my garden when it comes to calming my senses. I put aside time at least a few days a week for sewing. And speaking of value, the masseuse in our little town needed some new aprons. She asked me if I would make her a few, and in return she would provide me with a few massages. I'm just finishing my sixth apron for her. Good stuff! Oh, and my goodness, that needlepoint that your mother made is absolutely gorgeous. Thanks for sharing, Ilona.
I love that barter! You are so lucky, Sue. Aprons seem easy to make — no armholes or zippers. Do you agree?
Yes, aprons are the easiest! I actually love wearing aprons so it's fun to sew them.
First of all, your mother’s embroidery is exquisite! Your story is a treasure of memories that you can now pass on to your grandchildren. Funny how that Singer sewing machine was so popular “back in the day” as my son loves to say. I took lessons at our local Singer sewing center as a pre-teen and won a contest for making a dress but I did not enjoy sewing. My twin, on the other hand is the creative half. She is very artistic and I am the science-based half. We complement each other well. I thoroughly enjoyed this, right down to you making clothes because you’re 5’10”. I used to be 5’11”, so I certainly understand that clothes dilemma. Sew on, Ilona.
Thank you, Jan. I love how you and your twin complement each other, each with your own unique skills and attributes. I'm curious-- are you identical twins?
We are fraternal twins and barely look like sisters. Other than both having curly hair, we look very different. I look more like my brother who is 8 years younger. Genetics, funny stuff.
An inspiring read! My mother fled her home country of Canada, and her very traditional crafty mother. She left behind any desire to do handiwork herself, although she did try to knit a single afghan throw for maybe a decade. Other than a spell of embroidery fever when I was 11, I've been handiwork free, and now also filled with regret about that. My kids are all much craftier than me, and I wonder if it's too late for me to start making things with my (slightly arthritic) hands?? Oy vey. The only thing we are missing here is a photo of you in the dress!
There are a lot of photos out there somewhere...I have to talk to the bride and find out where those photos landed! If she sends me one, I will share.
Regarding it being too late to learn something new, you know it isn't. Don't be afraid to be a beginner again :)
So funny I would read this today. Yesterday, I was gathering up supplies in my art studio that I rarely use and thinking about my habit of putting away and taking back up hobbies. I bought a large bin and was emptying drawers but determining not to really "get rid" of any of it in case I wanted to use the supplies again in the future. I stood looking at my beloved sewing machine. I thought..."should I get rid of that?" After all, I haven't sewed anything other than a repair for a very long time. I used to really enjoy sewing. I began sewing clothes when I was 18 (simple hippie garb) and then sewed intricate clothes for my daughter and niece (they each had velvet coats and bonnets filled with embroidery). I did cross stitch, needlepoint, and quilts, even hand quilting some of them. I loved it all. But I haven't done this for years, trading in my needle for my paint brushes. This post has changed my mind, Ilona. I'm keeping my sewing machine. And I'm going to remember how to use it. I love that word, "Handarbeit." Your mother's needlework is exquisite!
You are the whole package, girl, simply amazing. You design your own fabric, paint, draw... what don't you do? Yes, get that sewing machine out! How lovely your daughter and niece must have looked in their velvet embroidered coats and bonnets.
My obituary will state, "A jack of all trades, a master of none." LOL
What a gift this story was to me, Ilona! My mother was a seamstress, knitter, and needlepointer all rolled into one. As I read your post, it brought back the beautiful handiwork she engaged me in. For a long time, I knitted baby hats and sewed my children's play outfits, particularly holiday wear with matching fabrics. It was fun, creative, and, oh, so appreciated. I even cross-stitched baby items for friends. Now, my creativity has shifted in other directions, such as writing and volunteering, but perhaps it is time to revisit some of those old skills?
Time is scarce even at our age. My mother used to do needlepoint while she watched TV. I'm not able to do that. I have to concentrate on one thing or the other. The point is you make time when you want to do something, and I think you need to water that seed a bit, Candy!
I also used to sew - my mother always sewed some of our clothes and when I was in 8th grade I was sent for sewing lessons. From there, every fall I sewed some of my clothes and these were “filled in” with clothes from the store. For me, what happened was lack of time and also it started to get more expensive to make the clothes (pattern, material buttons, zipper etc) along with the time. I’ve always enjoyed doing crafts and now that I have some time, I’ve been doing more. It’s a way of relaxing. I think if I shared it somewhere- linkin or anywhere it would be more of a “job” to me.
Clothes got to be so inexpensive, didn't they? You easily spend more for something similar at the store. I'm starting to view what I wear, including the clothing, jewelry, and accessories, as more of a work of art. Your outward appearance transmits a message whether you care or not.
I very recently returned to embroderiey and needlework after a 45 year absence, I have been delighted to discover that substack and other forms of media have creators who share their incredible ideas and work. Pulling out my sewing machine is next.
I am also delighted by embroiderers on Substack. I subscribed to Elin Petronella a while ago, and was blown away by her embroidery art. She is leaving Substack, but I hope to enroll in one of her online classes. Since you wrote about other embroidery creators on here, I searched and subscribed to some new ones. Thanks for the inspo, Beverly!
What a wonderful piece which highlights the joys of self generated creativity, industriousness, thrift, and artisanship.
My grandmother was a wonderful seamstress and often took great delight in making elegant dresses for my mother. I buried my mom in one of these creations complete with sequins and brocade and she looked like a queen at her wake. On this day 34 years ago, she died at the young age of 59. Your piece today brought back so many warm remembrances. Thank you so much, my
dear bud.
Hi TBG! Nice to hear from you. What a lovely sendoff for your mom, to be adorned in a dress made by her mother. So fitting, so profound. Thank you for sharing 💙