The Clothiers...

Those that make and sell clothing. I've always believed that if you want something done right, you must do it yourself.  I'm not sure if this is a motivating factor that drives those who produce their own clothing. Why sew, then? When I ask around, many say that they have been taught how to sew at an early age from their mothers and grandmothers. It's second nature. Many find it a form of relaxation and socialization. The sewing circle comes to mind, where family and friends gather to sew and talk stories. Some like to crochet at the beach, others hand stitch while watching television. It's something that can be done anywhere at any time, which makes it convenient. I'm amazed how these talented people can perform this difficult task, while at the same time holding a conversation. I'm not wired that way.

If you have ever produced something, and we all have in one form or another, you will identify with the emotions involved. It starts with the rush one gets in having an idea that you plan to actualize; thinking about it, planning it, and creating it to make it real; tweaking it and improving it until you are satisified; then enjoying and appreciating what you have just accomplished, perhaps looking at it over and over with the idea of improving it the next time. Man, I just want to create something! Oh, I am. I'm doing it right now.

We are all good at something. These people that I am writing about are good at lots of things, but it is their sewing, crocheting, knitting and embroidering that I am focusing on. These are their stories:

Carol of Coventry minored in art at the University of Bridgeport and considers herself to be an "artsy" type person who sewed a lot in her youth. I was told that she made TEN bridesmaid gowns for her wedding! Okay, I'm impressed. We have a serious sewer here...

One thing leads to another, and knitting has finally become a passion of Carol's. I say "finally" because nothing is easy. In the beginning of this learning curve her first project, knitting a baby blanket, "came out terrible." As a self-taught knitter Carol had to rely on books which were written for right-handed people. Carol is left handed.

It's not possible, when looking at a finished product, to know what it took to get the point of starting the project, no less turning out a work of art. We don't just arrive. It seems as if we must experience failure before we attain success. The learning curve is one of life's most difficult but rewarding challenges.

Carol turns out the most beautiful knitted capes you will ever come across. Her pastel rainbow poncho cape, made of machine washable homespun acrylic, is my favorite. The learning curve never ends and Carol is "learning new things every year." I can't wait to see her next creation.

Jimmy Halloran is Co-Owner of ConnecticutHandiworks.com, an online retailer featuring handcrafted items made in Connecticut.

  jimmy130@live.com  /  860.942.7571  /  PO Box 26 Hampton, CT. 06247