Wait! Before you toss out that favourite jacket ...

    Alterations are becoming more popular with the rising costs in clothing.  Our disposable era of clothes that don't fit or require repairs is changing.  The replacement cost of your favourite jacket/pants/dress is becoming more expensive with each trip to the store.  The good news, is you do have affordable options!

   Whether it's taking in a seam with a tuck or dart, or adding an insert to add some comfort, adjustments are possible to make your garments last longer!  

   Way back when - in the good old days 😉- sewing and mending was something everyone could do.  Today, there just doesn't seem enough time to get through the day with family, work and chores, never mind adding alterations and repairs to the laundry time!

   The following picture shows not only a zipper replacement with a 2-way zipper that allows the owner to sit comfortably, especially driving or snow blowing, but there is also an additional insert to allow more comfort.   This jacket is oldie but goodie that is just too good to discard for a newer, more expensive jacket with a poorer quality materials (industry cuts back as much as possible).

   If you have questions on doing your own alterations, I will be happy to help to the fitting!  It can be a challenge pinning yourself!

  

                           The possibilities are endless!  The impossible just takes a little longer!!

             Wheher by appointment or by chance, you're always welcome at Alice's Sewing Shoppe!

   

 

2026 - The Year for Creative Expansion and Variety!

      A reflection on my accomplishments to date, combines a variety of projects including: alterations and repairs; custom designing;  bridal and prom services;  contract industrial sewing;  shoe and boot repair;  equestrian special request for modified saddle pad and horse hair jewelry;  historical recreation of Anna Swan's gown for the Creamery in Tatamagouche; sewing lessons in River John; recovering of chairs with fabric and leather;  beautiful pillows for indoor decor and comfortable cushions for outdoor entertaining;  sun protective clothing and gardening hats;  custom millinery, curtains and draperies;  and thought provoking research for authenticity for the best possible results for more complicated projects when required.  

   Now, assessing what has been achieved, I find myself looking ahead for that which is still left to be discovered ... it's the constant learning and growing in knowledge that I find most intriging and searching for the next unusual assignment.  I do, however, enjoy completing each and every customer's request for my sewing services, from the simpliest task to the most complicated challenge ... because each request is an opportunity to help family, friends, and/or members of the community.  

   Looking to 2026, I will continue to explore my options not only in the sewing realm, but with the many facets of working with leather - with Chaps, Tack & Leatherwork.  Sharing my talent with those interested in learning, is always an ongoing enjoyment and brings happiness to those able to join the creative sewing world.  I never know what type of interesting project will come my way, and I always welcome the opportunity to achieve success ... the impossible just takes a little longer!

   Should you have a sewing question, a request for sewing services or require fabric or notions for your projects
, please remember, whether by appointment or by chance, you're always welcome at:

                                               

                                                       Alice's Sewing Shoppe

2026 - The Path Forward ...

    It's been a while ... a time for rest and reflection ... research and dreaming of the possibilities of the next chapter of Alice's Sewing Shoppe.

   Prepping for winter in an over crowded sewing shoppe has been challenging.  I have invested in an interesting diesel heater to keep my machines, various liquids, notions and equipment from freezing, as well as allowing me to continue to be creative over the cold months ahead.  

   My days are shorter now ... I tend to spend 4 to 5 hours a day in the shoppe.  There is a steady stream of jobs coming in ... perfect timing, as each one is finished, another one appears!!  Just perfect to maintain a steady performance, and researching hours are now in the evening when it's dark (and when hubby watches the hockey games!  😉)

   I'm looking at downsizing fabrics and notions in the coming year - so if you are looking for something special, please don't hesitate to drop by!  There's always time to discuss your projects and offer assistance, if you need a little help.  Sewing lessons are available ... for a quick refresher, or for techniques for more advanced projects!  Message ahead and let me know what time works best for you!

   I'm focused on future growth in the new year ... the sewing shoppe is my happy place, where ever we might be!!

   Whether by appointment or by chance, you're always welcome at Alice's Sewing Shoppe!

   

The Giantess of Tatamagouche, Nova Scotia - Anna Swan

      2023 - an amazing year - with a 'giant' assignment!!!                    

    

          Making a replica of Anna Swan, Giantess, was a wonderful opportunity to  create a historical replication of the famous Anna Swan, Giantess.  She was born just outside of Tatamagouche in New Annan, August 6, 1846.  Anna's recorded height was 7 feet 11 inches.

        This was an interesting assignment, contracted by the Creamery Square Heritage Society's museum in Tatamagouche, Nova Scotia.  This project included a lot of interesting research on the fashion trend of her time period; how to make a mannequin to her size;  designing shoulders, arms and hands; in addition to the underpinnings that were required to give the final gown it's perfect shape, not to mention drafting patterns for a giantess!!!

         During the entire process - start to finish - I kept scupulous notes, and it is my intention to write a complete journal detailing each step along the way. 

            There is a special room on the second floor of the Creamery Square Heritage Society's museum that is dedicated to Anna Swan.  The entrance to this room has an original door from her home in Seville, Ohio!

             Terri Scott, (the gal on the right in the striped shirt), was most kind to help me assemble Anna in the museum.  It was rather amusing carrying her mannequin up the stairs!

Despite all the pieces - mannequin assembly, hooped crinoline, bustle pads, 3 layer under skirt, velvet skirts, apron, bustle, peplum, lace cuffs, 'kid' gloves, jacket, collar and lace jabot - it went together rather quickly... I think it was less than 45 minutes!!  She was ready to make her first appearance on the July 1st weekend, 2023!

            Should you ever be in Nova Scotia, the trip to Tatamagouche is not only beautiful but has some of the best attractions and quaint little shops along the north shore of the province!! 

Be sure to pay her a visit and meet the wonderful staff at the Creamery Square Heritage Society, in their famous museum! 

A NEW ADVENTURE!!

     It's been an interesting 5 years here in Keble, Nova Scotia.  Along with the growth and development of my sewing business, we've enjoyed the homesteading life with cows, goats, chickens, ducks and Guinea fowl ... now it's time to move onward and upward to the next adventure in our lives!!  Oh!!!  I mustn't forget our family dog and cat, and our two "ferocious, feral barn cats" who are the biggest, friendliest, cuddliest cats we could ever ask for!!! (They have evolved into overnight house guests, sleeping in our bathroom sink!)

     Our landlord will be selling this property this year,  and we will be starting a new chapter.  

     It's been a wonderful experience here ... the north shore of Nova Scotia has been a great place to live!  The community spirit is very welcoming, kind and supportive ... we're hoping that we will be able to find the perfect place locally in order to stay in this area.

     I am now finishing my current historical replication of a complete Victorian styled ensemble for the local Creamery museum in Tatamagouche. (Stay tuned for pictures when it's completed) Once this is on display, I will focus on relocating and preparing my Sewing Shoppe for continued service, where ever we might be.

     I am also involved with a sewing workshop at the River John Library, and I am looking forward to continuing this wonderful venture!  The gals are dedicated to our group; and being able to share my sewing/designing skills, tricks and tips is an enjoyable personal experience!  Anyone wanting to learn is welcome to join us at the library, at my Sewing Shoppe (once I get resettled) or online if you are at a distance.  Having Zoom meetings was being considered.

          We all have so much to be thankful for ... 

               There's magic all around ... 

                    There's an adventure waiting to happen ... 

                         And new experiences to be explored!

Wishing all of you a most wonderful day!

SISTERHOOD FIBRES IN BARACHOIS SAVES THE DAY!!

 I visited Sisterhood Fibres today, in Barrachois, just outside of Tatamagouche, on the north shore of Nova Scotia.  I was in search of a special yarn to finish a little project - keeping in mind, that I haven't picked up my knitting needles in a couple of years ... but with all my spare time ... I ended up running out of yarn to finish the last couple of inches of my project. 

Fortunately, the wonderful owner, Faith, helped me to find just the right yarn to compliment the yarns in my project ... now the trick is to get it finished - in my spare time!!  😂

If you have a love of yarns, whether you knit, crotchet , weave, macramé, or enjoy any facet of the world of fibres, you must visit Faith at Sisterhood Fibres!!  Her wonderful shop is as warm and welcoming as she is ... and if you are interested in starting at the beginning of a yarn adventure, Faith has the skills, patience and ability to get you started along the right path!

And, let me add a happy hello to Sue!  She was coming in the shop as I was leaving ... Sisterhood Fibres is a wonderful place to meet wonderful people and enjoy the magic of the fibre world!  I do hope you will plan to visit soon!

Looking ahead - Spring 2022

    With the sunshine streaming through the window, the snow receding to small patches along the fields and roadways, signs of new daffodil shoots popping up under the apple tree - all encouraging signs that spring will be along soon!

   My 'to do" list seems to have grown over the winter, even with a steady pace, I have slowed down since last fall ... isn't it amazing how Mother Nature leads the way with energized encouragement by the slow and steady renewal of spring.

   I am going to be purging my fabrics and supplies - hopefully by finishing up some projects and preparing for some new project requests for this year.  One never knows what adventures can be found when you least expect them!

   I think it's almost time to recruit a helper - Thimblelina - or an apprentice to learn the trade ... it seems to be a lost art, and there's so  much to share and teach to those who are interested in the sewing world.  

   In the meantime, I'll continue down my "to do" list and be ready to jump into the spring activities that I have prescheduled!  It's going to be an interesting year!

  Hope your spring is refreshing and reenergizing as we pick up the pace with the longer sunny days ahead!  Enjoy!!

  

A NEW RECORD!!! OVER TEN THOUSAND HITS!! THANK YOU!!

 I am overwhelmed to learn that I now have over 10,000 hits on this blog ... 

I want to say thank you to each and everyone of you for checking out my blog;  for sharing it with your friends and family; for supporting my custom sewing business.

My love to sew has been a life long passion among the various other hats that I have worn!

With 2021 fast approaching, I am looking to have a monthly posting of the growth and development of Alice's Sewing Shoppe ... always a new adventure!  

All suggestions, requests and questions are answered  in a timely manner ... 

Once again, my sincerest thank you for stopping by ... 

Alice

TO MASK OR NOT TO MASK ...

It's no longer an open question ... with government regulations in place, as of today, July 31, 2020, this is the day when masks will be required in public places ... 

So, I take you beyond the debate ... 

What's in a mask??

According to the CDC, non-medical masks should consist of 100% cotton - one of these layers should be pillow ticking - a tightly woven fabric that prevents feathers from poking through a pillow!!

As a mask maker, (one of the many designer hats that I wear), I pre wash and dry all the fabric that I use for masks - actually, I pre-treat most of the fabrics that I work with so that my customers will enjoy the easy care of their finished products!  I have redesigned my masks to give more coverage, closer more comfortable fit and the best protection possible.
Fabric masks react differently than the industrial made masks when the facial muscles move and they therefore require a different fit to provide sufficient coverage and protection.

Polyester and poly-cottons are, in my opinion, poor choices for masks ... they are too hot to wear and not as breathable as 100% cottons.

The wires I use in the nose band of my masks are made of brass!  They are antibacterial, self-cleaning and they are good for your immune system!!!  I use a strong 20 gauge wire that is flexible enough to be shaped - and to hold that shape!!!  It does help a little to prevent glasses fogging up ... but if you're talking a lot or breathing heavily, you might find your glasses hard to see through.  However, I have read, that if you fold a piece of tissue and use it to line under the top of your mask, it does wonders to prevent your glasses from fogging up!!  

In addition to inserting the brass wires, I also curl and protect the ends - much like the end of a bobby pin is protected - in order to ensure that none of my customers are in danger of being poked with the end of a wire!  This is labour intensive, but I feel it's a necessity to keep my customers safe!

Filters .... I have done extensive research and to date, I have not found any filters that are safe, breathable, wearable or comfortable!!!  The CDC does not recommend filters.  I would like to add that coffee filters prevent breathing and they are not safe! ... vacuum filters were meant to filter small dust particles, not viruses ... people are not meant to breath in chemicals or micro fibers from filters and they do not provide the protection that you're looking for!  Because I feel so strongly against adding filters, I do not even include a filter pocket in my masks ... I believe in taking a stand and protecting my family, friends and customers therefore, until there is a safe, breathable,wearable, comfortable filter out there, I will not include them in my masks.

It is currently recommended to have 2 masks - one to wear and one to wash... but of course, you can see where it could become a fashion trend ... there will be many who will want to have fun with different fabrics, prints, styles - from very simple to the most elaborate!!  And, let's not forget the party masks with the flip up spot for your straw! 

At present, I am making 2 styles of makes - with pleats and without (or fitted) - and they come in several sizes, adult to toddlers!   I offer a choice of fabrics to ensure my customers get the right mask for them!  

... I custom make many masks based on individual requests and I will always alter or adjust to ensure the most perfect fit!

As a designer who strives to provide haute couture quality to my customers, my masks speak for themselves in design and quality construction!

TATAMAGOUCHE, NOVA SCOTIA ... THE PLACE WE NOW CALL HOME!

Tatamagouche, Nova Scotia is where we now call home!! After our first year and a half in Nova Scotia, we have finally settled in a charming country home just outside of Tatamagouche!  This is indeed the right place for us!

My sewing room is starting to take shape ... it still requires some tweaking ... but it's operable and I am able to offer my custom sewing, alterations and repair services to my new customers.  It is also so nice to know, that some of my previous customers in Ontario have sent some of their new sewing requests that can be completed here and returned by delivery service.

There's a wonderful window looking out over the back fields and it's perfect to let in the sunshine!  I find it very inspirational  - nature gives us such a beautiful view and a reason to pause for a moment and just enjoy what is around us. 

With the mysteries of winter, and what it will bring, I will be able to focus on preparing for the spring projects, researching the upcoming fashion ideas for 2019, and tuning into the many options and opportunities that will come my way.

If you should have a project that you need some help with, please send along a message and perhaps we can solve it together!  

Looking forward to a cozy winter ... and some creativity by the wood stove!

Wishing you happiness, blessings and love as we enter 2019!

WINTER'S WONDERLAND FROM MY WINDOW ...

As the new year unfolds, January has been most gentle here at my location in Nova Scotia, but  not all of the province has been so fortunate.  Family and friends back in Ontario, have had terribly cold temperatures and an abundance of snow to last them till spring, although I think Mother Nature will certainly ensure there's more cold and snow for all of us ... 

With the arrival of a great nephew a month before Christmas, I have been busy working on some plans for a unique gift that, once completed, I will post for everyone to see!  I do believe this is something very new, and creative, and it might become an important purchase for the next baby born in your family!! ... pictures coming soon ... 

In the meantime, still trying to get unpacked and settled in ... and completing little projects that have been here for a while.

I do hope all of you are enjoying January ... and don't forget to check out the Blue Moon at the end of this month!  It is to be spectacular!

In the meantime ... stay warm ... Alice

FALL'S FANTASY ...

Chasing away the chill of the fall winds ... here is a delightful wool cape/coat - fresh from my sewing shoppe in Nova Scotia!!

 

Although it has a cape look - it has beautiful French cuffs to keep out the cold!

The scarf is attached to ensure a nice comfy fit around the neck ... even the detailing at center back for an inverted pleat is a subtle, but stylish detail!


I am now working on a lace wedding gown for a November wedding!  Be sure to visit again to see the pictures of this beautiful creation!


As fall moves along, it's time to consider options for my Christmas list!  To avoid last minute hustle and bustle, be sure to start your list as the ideas start to flow!!


Take advantage of the fall activities in your area and enjoy this colourful season!! 

A NEW DIRECTION - A NEW ADVENTURE!

     I want to thank everyone in the Orillia and surrounding areas for your business and confidence you have given me to complete your adjustments, alterations and repairs for all your sewing needs.

    There's a new direction for me this spring ...  my hubby and I have relocated east to Nova Scotia!  It was a big decision with a lot of thought and consideration, and we have decided to 'go east' for a new adventure!

    We now live on a beautiful farm and are looking forward to living the country lifestyle.  Of course,  I have my machines and I will continue to enjoy my passion of designing and creativity, but now it will be on a slower pace with a little more time dedicated to smelling the roses!

    So, stayed tuned for an update of the changes and the future productivity from the country sewing room!!

    

HATS TO END THE YEAR ... AND MORE TO COME ...

  To end the year, my final project was a wool hat.  Although difficult to see, the crown was quilted to add some interesting detailing ... the inside was a navy satin.

   

HERE'S THE BEST DRESSED AT THE BIG EVENT!!

     Move over Don Cherry ... there's a new 'Dapper Dan' in town!!

"TIS THE SEASON ..."

     As the snow is falling and temperatures drop outside, I've been busy in my sewing shoppe!  
     A special request for a Christmas suit has brought a week long intense tailoring session - and the results are spectacular!!


       The picture showing the white jacket, is the lining and it was very classic.

     The client who requested this custom made suit won " best dressed " at the Christmas gala event that he attended!

    Now, with the countdown on till the 'big day', I will be working on my own Christmas list with not a lot of time to spare!

    With the winter solstice two days away, I am happy to point out the days will now start to get longer!  I enjoy the winter season and the growing hours of daily sunshine!

    Wishing all of you a wonderful, Christmas season as you enjoy your personal traditions for the festivities.

Merry Christmas! ... Alice   

HUGE PATTERN CLEAR OUT!!

     As we approach the end of this year, I find myself reflecting on this year and beginning a new focus on the year ahead.

     Over 1,000 patterns are now available!  If you're looking to sew for yourself, family or friends, and you're looking for a particular design or pattern number, be sure to send an email with your request or specifics of what you're looking for!

     Prices will vary from $1.00 to $10.00 ... depending on design.

     Looking forward to hearing from you soon! ... Alice
   

Autumn's Delights!

   The breath-taking beauty of the fall colours brings the excitement of fall harvest, the clean up of summer gardens and the preparations for the chilly days ahead.
   The Royal Winter Fair is a favorite annual adventure for our family ... so much to see and do ... we especially enjoy the heavy draft horses.
   From a sewing/designing point of view, I find the fall a time of new growth and development - a left over excitement from September's 'back to class' regime.   Research is a year-round project for me - it seems there's always something to investigate and learn more about - whether it's fabrics, designs or machinery.
   I always seem to be exploring fashion/design lines for the 'larger size 5 gals' ... looking for the missing items that industry doesn't manage to fulfill.
   This year at the Royal Winter Fair, I'm going to take a close look at what seems to need tweaking in the equestrian arena of riding clothing - too often the sizes just don't seem to meet the requirements of our Canadian gals!  So, if you or someone you know has a desire for better fitting riding breeches or jackets, please leave a note and let me know what you find most lacking and I'll incorporate all the ideas to improve what is available in the clothing for a more comfortable ride.
   With Christmas coming, there will also be a new nightgown/nightshirt design to add to your wish list ... soft - cottony -  and snugly warm!  Request a preview of this year's design - orders will be taken from Nov 15 to Dec 10th ...
   In the meantime, stock up on herbal teas, hot chocolate and your favourite cookies/biscuits - it won't be long before it's time to relax by the fireplace and enjoy the moment!

September 2016 .... Where has the time flown?

     Can it really be,  that almost 2 years have passed since my last posting?  How do we manage to get pulled along in a whirl wind - dancing to many tunes - and over loaded with so much on our plates that we manage to let a few fall by the wayside?

     Finally - I managed to squeeze in a vacation to Nova Scotia!!  For a week, there was no hustle and bustle, no alarm clock, no expected or unexpected demands, schedules or appointments to follow - just relax and breathe!!  With all the forestry in the Cape Breton area and the ocean coasts the air was clean, fresh and revitalizing!  The water so amazing - Artesian wells make quite the difference in Parrsboro, where I stopped to visit my cousin and his wife at their restaurant:  The Porch Light!  The weather was so beautiful - hot and sunny - with a breeze off the water to cool down with the heat - Halifax was the busiest place we ventured! Peggy's Cove, Port George and PEI were on the list  before we headed back to Moncton to return home.

     I relaxed!  I enjoyed! I smelled the roses!  

     And, now I have energy galore for my next big adventure!

     I have been researching natural fibers - for those who want to avoid or eliminate chemicals in their clothing.  It certainly is an interesting venture!  To this research, I have added the interesting topic of dyes - and, I'm going to pay more attention to next year's garden and pursue the natural dyes that Mother Nature has provided to us!

     October brings me several weddings for alterations and custom designed formal wear - always an interesting seasonal change in the design lines.

     I will be teaching sewing classes to individuals who want to learn the basics or develop their talent to the next level.  If you are interested, please be sure to contact me for further details, classes will be very small to ensure personal instruction, support and individual level of design development.

     Hope the coming fall season delights everyone with the changing colours, the harvest baskets and new delights to tickle your fancy!

ROMANTIC LINGERIE / NIGHTGOWNS FOR MATURE WOMEN

   As 2014 comes to a close, I am directing my energy toward a new line of luxurious, soft, flowing lingerie, nightwear and leisure wear for mature women who love romantic evenings with wine, roses and passion!

   Soft natural fabrics, fine cottons and silks - made in Canada! are my first choice for this collection ... with designs that will not only flow softly, but will also flatter the feminine beauty of mature women every where.

   IF YOU HAVE A REQUEST FOR A SPECIAL DESIGN FEATURE -  please be sure to leave me a note and I will try to incorporate your personal style into this new romantic line.

   Be sure to revisit next month to see the creativity that will be the most flattering lingerie / chemise / nightgowns for 2015!