Chicago Sews Newsletter: November 2024
Issue No. 17
Introduction
This month we marked the end of our spectacular We Sew Bombers Sew Along. It was a joy to collaborate with the leaders and members of We Sew Austin to coordinate this extra-special, community-building sewing experience. Check out the “Who” section of this newsletter to see who participated and what they sewed. As I look back over the past couple months of participation in this sew along, I'm left feeling especially grateful for the community that Chicago Sews has become, and I know Mia and Alisha would agree with me. If you're feeling a similar sense of appreciation for the connections you've made because of your participation in Chicago Sews events, then we hope you'll consider becoming a Chicago Sews Insider member before the month is up. The bottom section of the newsletter has more details about how to become an Insider, so enjoy the read and know that we are so thankful for your support.
Who?
Our We Sew Bombers Sew Along wrapped up with a Sew-lebration at Navy Pier on November 17th. Here's a look at who participated in the sew along, and what they made. These photos really illustrate how sewing allows each maker's personal aesthetic to shine through.
Nicola's faux-fur frenzy:
Aamina in a wax-print wonder:
Beth's burgundy bomber:
Mia in a true-blue tribute:
Alisha's sable stunner:
Erin is gorgeous in green:
Tarah's wearing a historic homage:
Princess's amazing appliqué:
Check out Brittney's window-pane checks:
What?
When we last asked you in September, more than 50% of respondents said they were planning to participate in our Bomber Jacket Sew Along. We're so glad this was a project that appealed to so many of our members and look forward to planning future sew alongs!
Our annual Merry Swap-mas event is almost here, so this month we're wondering what's in your stash.
When and Where?
Check out what Chicago Sews has going on in December.
Our monthly virtual Sip & Sew is coming up on Friday, December 6th. RSVP here.
We'll also be hosting our yearly holiday fabric swap on Saturday, December 7th from 1-4pm at the WasteShed in Evanston. Start sorting your fabric stash for cuts you'd like to swap for something else and keep an eye out for the meetup announcement to rsvp!
(If you have a sewing-related event that you would like featured in the Chicago Sews newsletter, please email chisews@gmail.com)
Why?
Here is a snippet of inspiration in honor of our theme this month.
How?
Since we're talking fabric stashes in December, we thought it might be helpful to see how other sewists organize their fabric.
Fold fabric around magazine boards to keep it visible
Label fabric with tags and fold it over a clothes hanger
Repurpose the clear zippered bags that bedding is sold in to store fabric
Sort by fabric type before storing
If you quilt, you may prefer to organize by color
Announcements
Membership Drive
Our Chicago Sews Insider membership drive is under way! Our members have always been generous when contributing to the costs of organizing events and building our sewing community. Instead of chipping in throughout the year, we're asking that you consider making a one-time, annual contribution to our event planning fund so that we know our budget in-advance. Your generosity will be rewarded with some new perks just for Chicago Sews Insiders. You can learn more in this issue of the newsletter and then fill out this short form.
