I have a bunch of Threads mags from over the last 30 years but what I wouldn't give to have them all!!! I still refer back to old issues.

I love Claire Schaffer - I have her DVD's and her original Couture Sewing Techniques. She's been an inspiration for me and I would love to win her revised book. I don't have the opportunity to sew couture like I used to so I use her book and DVD's as my primer to ensure I'm reminded of what I need to do to create drop-dead custom couture looks no-one else has. Thanks Claire!

I used to watch both my grandmother(Mom's) and my Mom sew all the time. The only time I received new clothes was when they were sewn. I started on a small sewing machine with Barbie doll patterns at the age of 6. Also my Mom taught me crewel and embroidery to help me with stitches. The first garment I made was a T-shirt from cotton broadcloth. My mom recommended jersey but I was adamant. It was for an after school program and when I finished I had learned more than if my Mom had told me what to do.
In high school we had Home Economics. I was blessed with an amazing teacher who saw the potential in a few of us and spent the summer between grades 9 and 10 teaching 4 of us tailoring. Because of her I can sew anything with confidence.
My daughter expressed an interest in sewing at very young age. At the age of six she made a quilt with my Mom. Together we made babydoll clothes from patterns and this March break she finshed the blouse she started at Christmas. The tradition will continue.