Hi, my name is Martha and my love for sewing and making was there right from the word go. As a child I used to go every Wednesday and Saturday afternoon to my aunt. Her 2 grown up kids were hardly there as opposed to my family where there were another 5 siblings and a busy family business which was run from our home. So I loved the quiet and calm atmosphere at my aunts house.

She was into sewing too and together we made many garments and outfits. She was patient and encouraged me in a very empowering way. I always had the feeling we worked together even though she was far more knowledgeable than me.

I would choose a design from a sewing magazines and off we’d go. We made things like tops, trousers, tailored jackets and even an all-in-one jumpsuit with a big zip at the front. 

I’ll never forget the day I wanted to make a bikini. This was before the days you could buy lycra or any other stretch fabrics. So we made it with a stripy pink cotton fabric and added elastic to nearly every pattern piece so it would cling to the body and stay in place. Needless to say it didn't really work but we did have a lot of fun making it.

Now, being a mum myself, I am handing on these skills and the love for making to my own teenage daughters. Together we’ve made many projects and it’s a privilege to be part of this rich tradition. To be able to hand on and give to the next generation what I have received from the previous one.

I hope you can experience the same love and enjoyment that sewing and making things gives me.

Martha.