I'm learning how to sew!

I know. It is so hard to believe. Rebecca - sewing? Are you sure? Yes, I'm sure. I'm ashamed that I've waited all these years to learn when I had plenty of opportunities to learn from my mother when I lived at home, but for some reason, I just wasn't ready. But - now I am ready and willing, so I'm taking sewing lessons from my neighbor and friend Kathy. She teaches a class out of her home each Thursday. This Thursday was the first class that everyone in the class was going to be making the same thing - a custom pillowcase. Kathy sent out an email earlier in the week letting us know the materials that we needed in order to complete our pillowcase. I was so excited - I went shopping and picked out my fabric and ribbon - I just knew this pillowcase was going to be great!

So - first we had to learn how to measure and cut. I know that I'm an accountant, but this has to be one of the hardest parts! I think it is one of my least favorite things about sewing so far - the math! I need my calculator!

Next we had to start the actual sewing. Well, of course of had to load the bobbin and thread my needle. For the first time ever, I did it all by myself! I was SO proud (this is BIG for those of you who don't sew!). Second, we learned how to do french seams. Unfortunately, I don't really remember what these are, but they give your project a really nice, finished, professional look. It takes a little extra time, but it does look nice. After that, I had to sew on my trim, which happened to be 4 inch satin ribbon (not easy to sew). At some point, I got really frustrated - see below:

Eventually, I got the hang of it and got into a groove and figured out how to sew on the ribbon without messing up. Before I knew it, I was almost done. Kathy kept encouraging me and kept pushing me and BAM- I had a pillowcase! I was SO proud! I have enough fabric for 3 more, so I guess I better get busy!