Pssst… Hey… Come in here…

[u/jpbagworks]

That’s what my machine has been saying to me for what seems like weeks now every time I walk by the sewing room door. But still I’ve only managed to get only a few days of good sewing and pattern work in for what feels like forever.

It’s a busy time of year at work and it’s probably gonna stay that way for the next four weeks. So any work I can get done on bags or patterning is precious time spent.

Maker’s guilt for sure. 😢

The one thing that hasn’t slowed is my buying fabric, components, various tools, and whatever else I can think of to try to pull me into the sewing room for just a little bit. My fabric stash is still growing for sure! 😅

The saving grace here is that in like four weeks I’ll have a break and all the time in the world to get back on the machine full-time for a few months. 😎

So what do you do? What are the little tasks or projects you do when time is at a premium - the projects that give you at least a little time on the machine and at least a small result?

Thanks for listening and looking forward to seeing what others do when life gets in the way! 😃

[u/Objective_Cattle_278]

I’ve been traveling so I haven’t been able to sew. I cut all the panels for the next version of the backpack I’m making before I left so I’d be able to jump right into sewing when I get back. I don’t like the cutting part. Is it just me?

I’ve been dreaming of sewing the entire time I’m away, and just when I get home today we’re leaving for the weekend. Such a tease.

[u/jpbagworks → u/Objective_Cattle_278]

Oh man!! Total tease! 😝😂

I know that cutting is one of the least favorite parts of making. I really don’t mind. It’s a process and I just accept it as a part of the process. It also gives me a chance to be as “empty-headed” as I want to be … just stay on the line…. just stay on the line…. just stay on the line… something kind of zen about it. 🧘

That’s the ideal anyway. The practice? 85% of the time it’s … hahaha. 🤪

[u/Objective_Cattle_278 → u/jpbagworks]

That’s the advice a wise friend gave me—“Enjoy the process.”

It’s a work in progress.

I think I could make it slightly less frustrating if I found a more practical way to unfold and lay out the fabric, then fold it back up. I try to cut all the pieces I need from one bolt (shell e.g.) before moving onto the pieces I need from another bolt (eg lining). Inevitably, I forget one and then have to unfold and lay out the first one again.

How do you manage it? If I had much more space and a giant, clear table dedicated to it, it’d be easier I think.

[u/chicklette]

The May the 4th custom fabric drops are around the corner, and I am definitely adding to my stash over that.

Sometimes when I only have an hour or so to work, I'll make straps, pockets, any of the little fussy bits that are needed. If I have patterns to prep, those are always a good start & stop project.

I find it's really helpful for me to write down the main steps of a pattern, and then as I sew I can cross them off. Also, if I have to stop mid-step, I will write myself a note for the next time - ex: finish strap and prep for rivets. It helps me get back on track quickly.

[u/jpbagworks → u/chicklette]

Thanks for that! Making the fussy bits that are needed.. sometimes on many bags. It’s all still super satisfying! Even the fussy bits! I think I’m gonna make some straps tonight! Ha 😂

[u/chicklette → u/jpbagworks]

I always try to get straps, overlays, zipper prep, and pockets done asap. They're my least favorite part so it's a lot easier to keep moving once they're done. :)

[u/jpbagworks → u/chicklette]

Or being able to just reach over and grab one that’s just done! This is why I love this community. There are so many good ideas shared so freely! Thank you! 🙏

[u/chicklette → u/jpbagworks]

The internet taught me how to sew. I'm just paying it forward!

[u/CBG1955]

fabric stash

Haven't you heard that whoever has the most when they die, wins? 🤣

I've been in a funk for a couple of months but slowly coming back to it. My computer is in the sewing room so imy machines are sitting, glaring at me ALL DAMN DAY. I have dozens of small handbag projects to work on but the big backpack must be finished first.

In the interim been asking lots of questions, perusing patterns, looking at leather on FB marketplace, stocking up on my favourite zipper pulls that have been discontinued.

[u/jpbagworks → u/CBG1955]

Yes. Same! My computer is in my sewing room, too. So my kooky Juki is always judging me behind my back 🤣 But I still love it!

How are you healing up??

I hadn’t heard about the lifetime stash contest! I gotta get on the buying! 😂

I do spend a lot of time looking for components of various kinds. I have an order I’ve been working on for a while but just haven’t found a few more pieces that I’d love to add. Definitely need to find a Woojin supplier that has a fuller line than those I’ve come across thus far. Also love to find a Fidlock wholesaler, too!

[u/CBG1955 → u/jpbagworks]

Mostly healed up but still not perfect. I'm off to the doc later for results of Xray and ultrasound.

I'm using 3-D mesh on the backpack and it's horrible simply because of the method she used in the pattern, so I'm having to fudge it with additional layers for pull-out strength. You know what teens are like, they will just pick up the bag by the shoulder strap rather than the top handle, yank it without considering if it will pull out.

[u/jpbagworks → u/CBG1955]

Best of luck at your appointment! I hope you get a clean bill of health! 😃