I noticed that many visitors to my booth at recent craft fairs were more interested in how I make my items than in purchasing them. I really enjoyed sharing with them the little sewing tricks I’ve picked up along the way, but at the end of the day (literally) those conversations didn’t turn into sales. It got me to thinking about how many people would like to know how to sew.
I enjoy sewing, so I love talking about it. But when I need to price my work to sell, by leaving out the value of my time…it’s not such a great business model. If the bare necessities didn’t keep getting more expensive, it would be OK if sewing was just my favorite hobby. because few things give me so much satisfaction.
A hobby with benefits
The best part about sewing is that, in the end, I’ve created something that makes life better for me, my family, or someone else. When I give something I’ve sewn as a gift, it’s always appreciated and the person I’ve given it to feels appreciated too.
Better than a therapy pet
When I’m sewing something, I’m not thinking about my troubles. Even when things don’t go smoothly, it’s so much nicer to fret over a wiggly seam than a wonky world. Sewing really is a powerful mental health medicine! It requires my full concentration, so it’s a way to get my mind off of troubles or pain and if I don’t pay attention, I’ll probably have to spend time on a task where my mind is free to wander – ripping out seams with my ole buddy, Jack the Ripper!
Either way, it’s all very Zen. I’d like to share that with others who don’t know how to sew or haven’t done it in a long time.
I’d like to teach the world to sew
Now you can enjoy my sewing expertise and enthusiasm with a new “product” I’m offering on byJeeni.com – Made By Me! Sewing Lessons and Kits. I’m kicking off this new line with a limited Sneak Preview Offer to my friends, family, and loyal customers – get 25% off for the full series of 6 step-by-step sewing lessons. Each lesson introduces new skills and includes everything you need to complete the project: easy-to-follow instructions, patterns, fabric, notions & all of the tools you’ll need for each lesson. You just need to have a sewing machine and a good pair of scissors.
You can see all of the details on my newly redesigned website: https://byjeeni.com . This special offer only lasts until Sept. 30th and comes with the understanding that it could take up to 3 weeks to ship your order, while I polish up the instructions. By October 1st (when the price goes up) I will be filling orders within 3 days. In the near future, you will also be able to buy individual kits for most of the products on the byJeeni.com website. These kits will include instructions, patterns, and all of the materials and instructions, but not the tools (that come with the full 6-lesson series). You will be able to buy the full set of tools separately.
But wait, there’s more!
So, I think I can make something good of this… I’ve set up a Facebook Group: Made By Me! Sewing Lessons by Jeeni where people can share their projects, ask questions and make suggestions. I hope you’ll pop in and join the conversation. And also check out the blog on my website: Jeeni’s Sewing Circle where I’ll be sharing thoughts and ideas that come to me when I’m sewing (or hanging out with Jack the ripper).
I’m looking forward to your orders while you enjoy your Labor Day weekend.
Jeeni
