Know what terms, such as tailor's ham, feed dogs, frogging, full the elbow, darning and bodkin, have in common? They're all sewing techniques or tools used through the centuries, which may no longer get interjected into current conversations. But one Carmel resident is doing something about others' knowledge of stitching empowerment.
Amy Crispin has owned and operated a sewing teaching studio for the past eight years. Called "Ms. Sew and Sew," she offers sewing lessons for adults and kids of all levels and abilities. She previously taught elementary school art for four years, so she added a once-a-month art club for children to her list of classes.
"With the resurrection of 'granny crafts' and the devastating research on the affects of screens on our brains, and especially our children's minds, I feel like my little business is exactly what people need to create balance in their and their children's lives," she explains. "My studio is a warm and inviting place where everyone belongs."
She says she's proud of the number of relationships and friendships that were formed in her cozy space.
"Ms. Sew and Sew's Studio has provided a community for women and girls, as well as boys and men. I see how sewing helps children with confidence, problem solving and self-worth," assures Amy.
Currently in her 45th year as a sewist, she says she made her first elastic waistband skirt for 4-H when she was 8 years old. She adds: "I come from a long line of seamstresses, quilters and 4-Hers. My mom has a degree in fashion design, and was a home economics and 4-H sewing teacher for many years. She taught me almost everything she knows. I still call her and ask, 'Why isn't this collar lying flat!' or 'How come I can't get this hem straight?'"
Her classes for youths also span artsy-craftsy birthday parties, Girl Scout badges, bible cover parties and art club. Sewing sessions are organized around students in third through fifth grades, then for middle schoolers. Art classes are divided between first to third graders and then third to fifth graders.
"Every day that I walk into my sewing studio I'm grateful that my mom taught me how to sew. It has given me the opportunity to be my own boss, and do a job I love. Most importantly, sewing has created a community of amazing people and a way to provide myself with 'free' therapy," she explains. "I love sharing my passion for sewing and creating art with as many people as I can, especially children. I want children to experience the satisfaction of creating something with their hands; to feel the joy of entering the studio, being met with the excited greetings of your tribe."
She explains that her goal with youths is to ensure they feel safe in Ms. Sew and Sew's Studio to create freely, make mistakes, have fun, make new friends and discover a lifelong love of sewing and art.
Sewing lessons offered to adults are scheduled for both evening or day hours. Except for thread, Amy provides all sewing tools, such as machines, seam guages, measuring tapes, pins, needles, scissors (even for lefties) and irons.
The evening "Open Studio" is for sewists at any level, Amy suggests. "This is a great way to take your first lesson in the safe atmosphere of other learners. This studio time can also be used to catch up on your other fiber arts: quilting, crochet, needlepoint, embroidery, Russian punch needle and needle felting."
Additionally, she just hosted a fun art camp this summer.
Private lessons for $50 an hour are also available from Amy.
317.313.2462
SewAndSew.biz
"I love sharing my passion for sewing and creating art with as many people as I can, especially children."