In Stitches!

Today not only sees the launch of my new Autumn programme of classes (see more details here), but I am also rebranding!

'Rags to Bags' was suggested as a bit of a joke by a few friends, many years ago when I made my first handbag from an old vintage curtain.

Back then I never had any intention of selling or teaching, but the name sort of stuck!

I have evolved a lot since then (though I still love and use that handbag!), but I no longer feel Rags to Bags is a good enough reflection of what I offer in terms of classes, workshops and patterns.

So as I look back with fondness on my Rags to Bags journey, it is time to close the book on this chapter, and start a new one!

From now on, my classes and workshops will be called 'In Stitches'.  I have used this name before, for a pilot class I was running for Oasis 2 years ago.  The pilot didn't continue, but I always loved the name, and feel it reflects the fun and laughter we often have in class (we get some sewing done too of course!).

Just Jude will continue as my branding for selling patterns on Etsy, and the occasional item I make to sell.

So, if you are local to me and would like to come along and have some sewing fun this Autumn, check out the new programme.

Coming soon to the Autumn programme:  Monthly Saturday workshops on Curtain Making & Dressmaking - dates tbc.

Happy Paddy's Day!

To all my friends, far and near, happy St. Patrick's Day!

Despite living in the land of '40 shades of green', today will be a usual Saturday - lie-in, chores, sewing!.

At the moment I'm having some fun with these ...

have designs on one of these ......

made another one of these ........

and plan to eat lots of this when my friend Sarah and her family come for tea!

Hope you have a great St. Paddy's day!

Announcing ........!

.... my new Etsy Pattern Shop!

This has been in the making since last September!  

I'm not big into selling the actual items that I make, but I love providing people with the means to get creative and sew for themselves.  So I thought that I may as well sell the patterns that I design for teaching in class, and it also gives me the opportunity to sell one or two other items if I feel like it e.g. handbags etc.

I don't mind if there isn't a huge take up rate for these patterns - but I know that even if only 1 sells now and again, then that is another person I've hopefully inspired and helped to make something they will love. 

At the moment there are only a few patterns available, but I have a tonne more waiting to be written up, proof read and loaded up!

I'd love it if you would pop over even just to have a wee look and tell me what you think!  I'm always open to suggestions on how to improve things.  Oh, and feel free to spread the word!  Just click on the Etsy button at the side and you will (hopefully) be taken to my shop!

Have fun!

P.s. Thank you to those of you who have proof read patterns and helped this 'techno numpty' make this possible!  You know who you are! Jxo