Subscriber Profile; Liz

January’s subscriber profile was with Liz @lizmitchellsewsandcycles who tells us more about her sewing journey.

Tell us about your sewing journey. When and how did you start sewing?

I’m going to be 60 next month, and I started sewing at 11 yrs old. I had fantastic sewing teachers at school. My mum who can’t sew, knit or crochet bought me a sewing machine and I loved it from day 1. I used to sew a lot of clothes when I was very young – clothes were expensive and not much to choose from. But I was always sewing at the last minute for date night, my wedding, (bridesmaids dresses) and then my daughters events.

I stopped sewing for myself when she was born – 35 years ago, but I continued to make soft furnishings and curtains and indeed completed an art and soft furnishing diploma while off on a maternity leave. I only started sewing again for myself a year ago and had a few items I couldn’t wear. I then started to look on YouTube for help and found Liz from The Baker Who Sews and a few others. I really admire Liz’ style and adventurous makes – unfortunately they don’t suit me, but I’ve learned so much from her and the others. I’m just so sorry I live in Northern Ireland and probably will never get to meet anyone.

You have been subscribed to the Classic box for a few months, do you have a favourite box from the last few months?

I contacted you directly and asked for a September “Art Class” box with the blue floral jersey. I made a Tilly hack dress, I loved it so much I ordered a further 2 metres to make Iris t-shirts. You’ve asked me to pick a favourite hmmm, sorry I can’t. I’m just about to make a start on the December check to make Carolyn pjs in the shirt style to make the most of my 2.5m.

What is the best thing about receiving a monthly box of sewing goodies?

I absolutely love having you pick the fabric for me – I’m not brilliant at it and I absolutely love the 12th (or thereabouts) of each month, so much so that my husband asks if the Sew Hayley Jane box has arrived.

Sewing and cycling have kept me sane over lockdown. I’m always a busy person so no idea why lock down had irritated me so much – probably the lack of several holidays now that I’m retired.

Do you have a favourite make from your subscription?

My favourite make has to be my Zadie jumpsuit.  Made from the silver metallic viscose that was in December 2019’s box that I purchased on the Outlet Shop. But I’m sure now my sewing skills are coming back to me there will be plenty more favourites