four years ago, Shelly Figueroa founded the sewing pattern company that became Figgy’s. she has also co-authored the book “Sewing for Boys” and recently had the opportunity to teach an online class for Craftsy! she’s made various media appearances about sewing and teaching, while continuing to design and release new children’s clothing patterns.
as many of you already know, i’m a big fan of Figgy’s! in fact, i recently reviewed Shelly’s Craftsy class, Kids Romper Revamp, and shared the custom shorts i made for my seven-year-old here on my blog. for anyone interested in pattern making and/or customizing, i highly recommend the class. (psst… my post just happens to include a discount code for 50% off the class)
living just outside of Portland, Oregon, Shelly is passionate about teaching children how to sew, but her home studio is busting at the seams. which is why Shelly is asking for our help to start Figgy’s Sewing Studio. recently, i asked her a few questions about the project and sewing with children…
rachael: what inspires your sewing and pattern-making?
Shelly: Children are a huge inspiration for me and the runway. I love being able to offer the fashion forward mom a sewing pattern that she finds inspiring. She’ll have many more “where did you buy that?” than “did you make that?”
r: what do you hope to accomplish through Figgy’s Studio?
S: Figgy’s Studio will be a place where people come to be inspired. This is the place where kids will be taught lifetime skills while having fun at the same time. And for all the gals/guys that had a bad experience with Home Ec in the 70′s and 80′s, this is the place that will change all of that, it wil be a true creative experience.
r: what do you think is the key to getting kids excited about sewing?
S: Give them freedom of expression. Don’t pick out the fabrics for them or tell them it doesn’t match let them choose and experiment.
r: do you have any examples of things you think would make good projects for kids just starting sewing?
S: Tote Bags are always great starter projects. They love making bags but what they really love is clothes. Don’t be afraid to teach them how to make garments. They aren’t afraid of challenge.
r: what are your tips for successful sewing with knits?
S: I LOVE knits! If I could live in an artsy version of yoga pants I would.
Shelly’s Knit TIPS:
Don’t be afraid because there is really nothing to be afraid of
Keep the fabric up of your lap and up on the table
Use the correct needle (ball point)
Use a stretch stitch
New to Knits? Start with a jersey knit
and now… sewn studio is excited to offer you a great way to help Figgy’s Sewing Studio become a reality! this october, we will be offering two sewing with knits classes and all proceeds will be donated to this great cause. that’s right, learn to sew with knits and support Shelly’s dream at the same time!!
using this free Flutter Circle Skirt e-pattern from Figgy’s, you’ll draft your own simple pattern based on your child’s measurements and then whip up a darling knit skirt.
dates: Tuesday, October 2 *or* Saturday, October 6
time: 10am-12:30pm
cost: $49 plus materials
please call us at 513.321.0600 to register. we expect these classes to fill up quickly, so don’t delay!! note: payment required at time of registration. payment and attendance policy details can be found here.
you can also support this great cause through the Figgy’s Sewing Studio fund-raising campaign on indiegogo. thank you for your support… every dollar helps!
xo, rachael
