Comfort Zone Redefined – Sew Expo

I have made it my goal, the past two years, to get out of my comfort zone. I had a health scare, I guess that’s the best way to put it, and my entire world was shaken up. It impacted things to the point where I had to stop normal daily life, sewing included. I don’t like dwelling on it, but it is reality, and I am “not supposed to be here”, or “supposed to be in a wheelchair”.  As you can see from my pictures and this blog, neither is the case, and for that I am so incredibly grateful. Hence my blog and Instagram name.

These health issues are a struggle I will always have and some days are better than others, but I truly am grateful for where I am today. When I talk about my comfort zone it is mostly relating to the things I sew and wear, but it also encompasses so much more. This blog, my Instagram, going to a local Sewcial (my husband came with for moral support, he rocks), taking pictures of my makes and posting them online for all to see, testing patterns, helping others with their sewing journey, and sewing for others. All these things have been out of my comfort zone and usually I talk myself out of them, repeatedly, before I give myself the mental butt kick and go for it.

I know I mentioned I was going to a Sewing Expo in this blog post. Well, I did it, even though I was so nervous! I was nervous about traveling solo, meeting people in person that I had only met online, the weather, my health, my clothes, so many, many things. In reality, it was amazing. I realized that these were my people. I fit with them and our mutual love of sewing and fabric. I met so many new people, people I had seen online, and friends I had made online but never hung out with in real life. I laughed and smiled so much, my jaw and neck muscles were sore, ha ha ha. Life lesson – Laugh more! I wish I had gotten more pictures but I will forever cherish this experience and I can’t wait until the next time.

While at the Expo I took a class on “The Ins and Outs of Fitting the “Booty”, by Lorraine Henry.  It appealed to me as something that isn’t typically spent time on in the groups I’m in, yet is so important. Since one of my sewing goals is involving more pants and shorts, I saw it as the perfect opportunity. I wish the class was longer because I wanted more info and I am curious how some of the fitting adjustments would vary depending on the type of pants I was making. She used a neat tape measure to easily measure her rise and crotch depth, among other important measurements.  I took a few notes and can’t wait to research more and incorporate the info in my future makes.

There were so many neat machines and gadgets at the Expo too. It was pretty cool seeing them in action. I got myself something new to try. It’s called a Lil’ Hookey. I have been looking for a more efficient way of finishing off my serger tails and I’m hoping this is it. You can join me here as I try it out for the first time.

If you ever get the chance to attend a sewcial or sewing expo, I would highly suggest giving it a go. You never know who you will meet and what you may learn. I am eagerly awaiting my next opportunity. My comfort zone has been redefined, yet again, and I love it. Here is to sewing and growing ❤

This post may contain affiliate links. This means if you make a purchase through that link, I may get a % back, at no additional cost to you. Let’s be honest, we all know it goes right back to adding to my fabric stash. All opinions on this blog are my own.