Sew Lovely

I was given something. All I had to do was ask. It's absolutely beautiful. I haven't used it yet because it's sew lovely. All I do is stare at it.

This cabinet is marvelous. It tells a story. Tucked safely inside is this piece of art. 

Maybe you're not as amazed as I am. I'm new to the world of sewing and I never imagined I would learn to sew on such a gem. I'm a part of a Freecycle group. Please tell me you've heard of it. It's a group of people in your area that post items for FREE all in an effort to share with others and keep things from filling up our landfills. People not only post things they can no longer use on Freecycle but they also request things they need or could use. I was on the site one day posting some pots that I no longer use when I decided that I would ask for something. Yes I felt weird but I did it. I asked if anyone had a sewing machine that they no longer use. I've been wanting to learn for years, I only got a small taste for it in a home ec class. Sure enough someone answered. 

This someone was very special. They have been repairing and loving sewing machines for over 30 years. She handpicked this machine just for me! She said it was perfect for learning on because it's simple and you couldn't break it if you tried, which I'm still nervous about. She has a variety of machines, antique cabinets and a wealth of knowledge. She said that the new machines are fun with all the 100's of stitches but that they are constantly having problems and just don't last. She even offered to teach me and help whenever I needed it. I feel so blessed! 

This machine is from 1950. Isn't it gorgeous? 

It even came with a manual and an old Singer box full of stuff.
I have no idea what most of these things are or what they do.

I've been working on setting up a new space to create in. I wanted a chair for my new sewing machine 

so I headed to the thrift shop where I found the perfect one for $10; the only thing it needed was a reupholstered the seat. I'm thrilled with how nicely it goes with the machine and cabinet. 

Setting up a new space means going through all my collected stuff and getting rid of things I probably won't use, which is not easy. I had fun going through my great grandmothers sewing basket and sorting through what was originally in it, treasures that I will never get rid of.

It's hard to imagine spending an ENTIRE day ironing but it happened. From what I understand my great grandmother would iron everything from the sheets to the underwear. 

I can't remember when I got this sewing basket but I've always adored it

 and enjoyed using some of the tools inside. 

I've always been fascinated by this thimble. It's so tiny and full of detail. 

If you're wondering what's up with my dirty looking fingers. They've been stained for days from apple butter making! Who knew peeling apples stains your hands? 

Do they even put thread on wood spools anymore? 

 I might be forming an obsession for wooden spools, I just love them. 

It's so special not only having these pieces of history but to use them. I think about my great grandmother and how the yellow thread was used the most and I try to remember what she looked like and the clothes she wore. To think about who used this sewing machine before me and how they probably weren't sewing for fun or as a hobby but because it was a way of life. 

I'm so excited about learning to sew. I've got a few books from the library and have enjoyed looking at projects on Pinterest. If you have any good resources or tips for me please share. This is gonna be fun!