SINGULAR STITCHES
Custom sewing by Lily
MY STORY
How it all started
In 2015, I decided to reupholster my hand-me-down couch and armchair, which required sewing the cushion covers. In retrospect, I wouldn't recommend that as a first project, with heavy fabric, zippers, and piping to deal with, but I dove in and immediately became obsessed. I've been sewing non-stop ever since! I used indie patterns, sew-alongs and many other online resources to teach myself to sew, methodically building skills with each new project. I started out with a very basic Singer (from Costco), and later got a hand-me-down sewing machine from my mother and serger from my grandmother.
Taking it up a notch
I made everything from simple t-shirts to a wool coat, as well as accessories like bags and pillows. Soon enough, the majority of my wardrobe was handmade. As I improved my sewing skills, I also learned about fitting, pattern drafting and 'hacking', and fabrics. Eventually, I upgraded my sewing machine to a professional sewing and embroidery machine.
After years of being encouraged to do so by friends and family, quarantine gave me the push I needed to build a website and make it official. When I sew for other people, it's so satisfying to solve a fitting challenge that they always have with store-bought clothes, or to use a unique fabric that says something about who they are.
VALUES
Environmental sustainability
Handmade clothing is generally more sustainable than fast fashion because it lasts longer and keeps clothing out of landfills. In addition, when I source fabrics, I look for:
- natural fibres
- minimal impact on the environment in processing
- remnants or deadstock fabric
- upcycled or secondhand fabric
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Body Positivity and Inclusivity
When I started learning about fitting, I felt self-conscious about the alterations I would need to make, but I came to see handmade clothing as a way to embrace your body as it is! I can work with you to make sure your custom-made garment addresses accessibility concerns, sizing needs, gender identity, or whatever other challenge you may have in buying clothing.
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Ethical Production
Part of the reason fast fashion is cheap is because the labourers are not paid fair wages. In working with me you are supporting a small business, and I in turn also support small businesses in my fabric sourcing.