My Connection Statement

I create classes and resources for teens and adult makers curious about the basics of sewing and sustainable garment creation, through my online classes.

About Me - My Biography

I trained in pattern making and garment construction in beautiful Cape Town, South Africa in the early ‘70’s.  I went on to work in a knitwear factory in the Cape until I returned to my homeland, Zimbabwe, where I became a buyer for a group of fashion stores until I married my husband in 1982.

After our marriage, I set up a small business employing one full time machinist and another to do hand sewing. We made one off, customised garments for family, friends and loyal customers.  We worked with bridal parties, made men’s and women’s wear and as we had three children of our own, clothing for that age group became part of the story as well.  I loved the interaction and relationships I built with customers, suppliers and artisans, through having my own small business, and I still love that to this day.

In 2003 we moved to Western Australia with our family.  I was fortunate enough to be employed at our local college fashion department where I started in my new role as industry educator.  I spent ten very happy years teaching school students, as well as adults, in various aspects of the clothing industry.  During my time as educator I made amazing industry contacts; some that I still work with today.

What is now of critical importance to our industry is the need to educate everyone on what small part they can play in sustainability and ethics in the clothing industry.  The reason for my business is to help where I can, and continue to learn and understand how to make the clothing industry better and passing on that knowledge to anyone curious to learn.

My Expertise

I have created a small range of garments that I am slowly adding to.  Because each garment it individually cut and made they can be customised to your specifications.   Sustainability and ethics are an important part of our business and, working with small groups, I intend to increase sustainability awareness and revive sewing skills .

My Passions

I am passionate about small scale, locally made garment production and spreading ideas on how we can all contribute to making the clothing industry better.  Keeping sewing skills alive is part of my plan.

I love reading and working on home interior projects.

My Interests

My husband and I are keen gardeners and love visiting art galleries whenever we get the chance.  Sydney, Melbourne, the Gibb River Road and Purnululu National Park, have been part of our travels and we would love to see and do more within Australia.

How I Can Help Other Members

Keeping sewing skills alive is one of my goals and if you or someone you know would like to learn, please be in touch.  As often as I can I create free links to my courses, which I share with the amazing Her Business members as the support here is fantastic.

I create garments in 100% Japanese cotton, from size 6 – 26 and I would love the opportunity to work with women who struggle to find quality garments that fit, made in natural fabrics.  Our fabrics travel well and are comfortable to wear.

I am aware that ethics and sustainability can come at a price so have released my first pattern for customers to make their own.  You also have the option of buying our fabrics for your sewing project.

 

Why I Became a HerBusiness Member

Being part of a community of business women online helps keep me on track.  There are so many inspiring women to bounce ideas off not to mention the speakers and resources we have at our fingertips.   There is also the convenience of connecting online and there is nothing more satisfying than feeling that you may have contributed in some small way.

My Member to Member Offer(s)

I am happy to share promo links with HB members so my classes can be accessed for free.

Please contact me if I can help in any way in your garment creation journey.