First, I must share that I attend my very  first Patternreview Retreat (Chicago).  I have to tell you that deciding to attend an event where I know absolutely no one is so out of my comfort zone.  Kelly, one of my very best friends and sewing partner in crime, came with me.  We had the the best time.  Have you ever had a friend that can just make you  laugh and laugh?  Well, that is my girlfriend Kelly.  I haven’t laughed so much in a long time.  It was well overdue.  I have to tell you it was such a joy to meet women who share the same passion.  Every one was super friendly and openly shared their sewing knowelgde.  Also, I met Cennetta from Mahogany Stylist.   That was a treat for me because I really enjoy reading her blog.

What can I say about the fabric shopping…….Wonderful!!!!  I was loaded down with bags of fabric walking to the train station.(better known as the L)  It was a sight to be seen.  But, I didn’t care.  I brought home beautiful fabrics and I only went over budget by a few dollars.  I was quite proud of myself. 

The guest speaker was Angela Wolf.  She was awesome!!  She shared couture and dying silk techniques.  I have to tell you, when she talked about washing silk, my heart almost skipped a beat. lol   But by the end of the session, I was ready to try washing silk.  I was very impressed with her.  What really stood out for me, was her willingness to share her knowledge.   I asked her a question about fitting for my sway back.  At the time she did not have time to talk with me.  She stated that she would talk with me at the pizza party.  I was okay with that, but I really expected her to forget.  Well she not only looked for me at the party, she came with notes and diagrams on how to address my issue.  I was impressed and grateful.

I had the best time and looking forward to next year’s retreat.  I ‘m  hoping that it will take place in San Francisco.  I would love to go back to Britex Fabrics to shop.  The latest poll on patterreview shows SF is the lead with 48%.

My next posts, I will share the projects I have finished and the status of Vogue V1220.  Below are a few pictures from the retreat.



My girlfriend Kelly at Soutache. A beautiful trim store




Shopping at Vogue Fabrics




Angela Wolf



Illinois LT. Governor at Fishmans Fabric’s

Until next time…………keep sewing!!