TALENTS AND SKILLS - KNOWING THE DIFFERENCE ON NEEDLEWORKMONDAY

There are certain talents which I admire and would love to have - such as singing - but am sadly lacking in that department. Now while I would also love to play a musical instrument I can learn the skill, if I put my mind to it. Singing, however is not a talent I was born with. Excluding my girl cousin all the women in my family sew or knit or do embroidery. Or all three! My cousin's mom is a professional seamstress. Her sewing is BEE-U-ATIFUL!

When I started high school one of the compulsory subjects was home economics. Sewing and cooking! I was my teacher's nightmare. I burnt the cake - mine and my fellow students. I curdled the bechamel sauce. I jammed my shirt into the sewing machine. My simple quilting was stitched front to back with selvages and cotton thread sticking out all over the place. My poor teacher hoped I would find a wealthy husband who could afford chefs and tailors - then she washed her hands of me. In total despair I turned to my aunt. She and I both have a no nonsense approach to a situation (Unlike my mother who was in tears and locked herself in her bedroom at my first broken needle) Totally undaunted by my mad skills - or lack thereof - my aunt let me choose from any of her patterns and off we went to the material shop. Having full faith in my aunt's amazing skills and patience I chose a fitted skirt and jacket - complete with pleats and tucks and lining. The rest, as they say is history. Thanks to my aunt I am very proud of how far I have come in my sewing ability.

Not only can I make pretty and durable cloth diapers with matching clothing but also beautiful (yes, I can confidentally say that) ladies lingerie and men's jackets. The photos I am sharing with you are children's items which I have made recently for my little boy.

While I prefer making my own pattern and an original item of clothing; I have found Brindille and Twig. They have the most amazing children's patterns - and some adult. Her instructions are excellent and understandable. This is extremely helpful for a beginner. The styles are adorable. My current favourite is this footed romper. I have made a couple pajamas for my busy (as you can see) baby. I have also adjusted the pattern to include a hoodie and remove the feet for a warmer, winter fleece option.

Every week a post titled #NeedleWorkMonday pops up in my feed. I assumed it was knitting - yes, duh as if knitting alone uses needles! Last week @corrielaine had photos of her adorable kiddos in the prettiest outfits, which she had sewed. After chatting to her and hearing about this fun project initiated by @crosheille I decided it was time to join the #NeedleWorkMonday festivities.

Sewing is pretty slow going these days. You can tell my walking almost one year old keeps me on my toes. He is such an enthusiastic little boy. I love sewing for him, although living on the homestead the pretties get filthy very quickly.

I am blessed and grateful that my aunt took me under her wing. I am blessed that my sewing has allowed me to branch out to make a small income from this enjoyable skill. For those of you who would like to learn a skill - go for it! As the saying goes: you are never too old. Our incredible brain has the ability and inclination to learn. Sure there are talents that I will never have. No matter how much I may practice singing in the shower the animals still flee! But skills? Now that is a challenge we should never refuse to take on.