As an avid reader, stories of women with thread fascinate and inspire me.

Last summer I read By Her Own Design by Piper Huguley, a historical novel about fashion designer Ann Lowe. Ann grew up in the deep south, and learned the art of sewing from her grandmother who was a former slave. She sewed for the elite white southern society women and went on to be the designer of Jaqueline Kennedy’s wedding gown.

Most poignant in her story is how sewing gave her the freedom and independence she needed to escape an abusive child marriage. Her skills gave her value.

From homeless to tailor

More recently I picked up the January 2023 edition of Voice of the Martyrs magazine, and read the article “A Daughter’s Hope”. It is the account of Edosa, who converted to Christianity during her adolescence and experienced persecution and homelessness because of her faith.

But later Endosa enrolled in a tailoring program, gained skills. She now has been able to open her own business, and currently has several employees.

My Own Story

Different, yet similar is my own story. I dreamed of a different career path, but family circumstances did not give me the privilege of finishing a college career degree. I found myself working as a gas station manager. However, I dreamed of the flexibility of having a home business to be a stay at home mom. I had learned to sew as a child, and had gone on to make my own wedding dress. Starting a sewing business gave me the opportunity that I would not have had.

All these stories sewing has been a path to freedom, independence, self-worth, strength and creativity.

The current society doesn’t always value skill, and is focused on the latest technological upgrades and speed. Yet, sewing remains as a life skill that sustains the livelihood of many, opens the doors for creativity and leaves a mark on the world.

(Links to By Her Own Design: Thrift Books (which is my preferred sustainable method of purchasing books) or on amazon. Before buying a book I also recommend checking your public library system)