Meet the Maker: Sew Today, Clean Tomorrow

Meet the Maker - Sew Today Clean Tomorrow - Andrie Designs

As a member of the two pretty poppets team, it seemed inevitable that Lisa would hunt me down for a Meet the Maker interview. I tried to run, but was no match for her lion-like prowess (in other words, she sent me an email).

We decided that it might be fun if I interviewed myself, because if there’s anybody that loves to talk about me, it’s me. I’m also getting the impression that Lisa likes to do other things between releasing patterns, like sleep and eat. I know, I know…selfish.

Without further ado I introduce you to…Me. *Ahem* I mean, Rachael from Sew Today, Clean Tomorrow.

Meet the Maker Sew Today Clean Tomorrow- two pretty poppets
Pattern: Stand Up Clutch by Andrie Designs

Tell me more about myself (I totally LOL’d when I wrote that)

Like many of us in the handmade world, I started sewing when my daughter was born about five years ago. I’d always been interested in craft and had dabbled in crochet and jewellery making. It wasn’t until I stopped working to become a Mum (or should that say, “stopped getting paid to work” haha) that I decided to pursue my interests more.

With a background in many facets of Information Technology, including training, it was no surprise that I started a blog with the goal of creating tutorials and patterns that might be of interest to fellow newbies. From there I’ve moved from sewing, to quilting, to bag-making and here I stay…for now.

Meet the Maker Sew Today Clean Tomorrow- two pretty poppets
Pattern: Stand Up Clutch by Andrie Designs

When did I start bag making?

I’ve been making basic totes since I started sewing, but only started making more complex bags about 18 months ago. There was a bag swap that I had joined so it was a great opportunity to just let my creativity go nuts. I had such a great time that it wasn’t long before I started hoarding bag patterns…and occasionally even making some of them.

The swap bag was so successful I ended up teaching a class for it at Frangipani Fabrics here in Tasmania, Australia. That’s when I was really bitten by the bug. It gave me a whole new appreciation for sewing and renewed my love of teaching. I think they may have created a monster that day.

Meet the Maker Sew Today Clean Tomorrow- two pretty poppets
Pattern: Stand Up and Tote Notice by Andrie Designs

What’s my favourite part of bag making?

I love that I learn something new with every single bag I make. Be it a brand new technique, or a simple trick to perfect an old task. I really enjoy watching my skills and knowledge improve through each and every bag.

I also love the books. Seriously, I’m a craft book-aholic and bag books are the best!!!

What’s my least favourite part of bag making?

Having to give the bags to their new owners. What’s with that??? I spent the time making it and chances are it’s the best one I’ve made to date, why do I have to give it up? It just doesn’t seem right.

Of course, the smile from the recipient, when I finally hand it over, makes it all worthwhile.

Meet the Maker Sew Today Clean Tomorrow- two pretty poppets
Pattern: Hang About Toiletry Bag by Andrie Designs

Do I have any bag making tools that I can’t live without?

My Clover Wonder Clips. I love my glue, double sided tape, hammer, hole punches and many of the other toys I have stashed away, but my Wonder Clips are number one. They’re the only tool I absolutely must have on hand when making my bags.

What advice would I give to someone new to bag making?

In the immortal words of NIKE (or someone from their advertising team anyway): Just Do It. Jump in and give it a go. Once your first bag is finished, research some of the things you struggled with and try again. Research, sew, research, sew, research, sew. Yes, you’ll probably stuff up at some stage, or many stages. We all do. Learn from your mistakes, keep sewing, and eventually you’ll be a bag making whizz.

Meet the Maker Sew Today Clean Tomorrow- two pretty poppets
Pattern: Statement Clutch by Andrie Designs

A huge thanks to me for taking the time to be interviewed by me. Just kidding. The thanks goes to you for taking your precious time to read all about my bag making life. I hope you enjoyed the story. If you’re interested in seeing more of my work, I can be found at:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/sewtodaycleantomorrow

Instagram: www.instagram.com/sewtodaycleantomorrow

Blog: www.sewtodaycleantomorrow.blogspot.com.au

Rachael xx

Meet the Maker Sew Today Clean Tomorrow- two pretty poppets

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