I’ve wanted to learn how to sew for as long as I can remember. Even as a kid, I was drawn to clothing not just as something to wear, but as something you could make, change, and personalize. That curiosity is ultimately what led me to study fashion; and sewing has always been at the core of that journey.
Recently, I had the opportunity to be part of two workshops: Sewing Basics 101 and a Hemming Workshop. The Sewing Basics workshop was especially meaningful because it was one of my first times helping teach others how to sew and operate the machines. Guiding people through the fundamentals - threading machines, stitching, and understanding construction reminded me how empowering those first steps can be. What surprised me most was how much I learned as well. Teaching became a form of revisiting and refining skills I sometimes take for granted.
I also got to shadow Arushi throughout the workshop and see how much care goes into planning everything from start to finish. Watching her lead with intention and clarity was inspiring, and it showed me how preparation and patience really shape the learning experience.
The hemming workshop had a different energy - familiar faces, lots of conversation, and a very hands-on vibe. Everyone brought pieces they wanted to alter, and the room felt collaborative and supportive. Even though hemming is something I already knew how to do, the workshop pushed me to be more intentional about technique. It reminded me that sewing isn’t just about making something “good enough,” but about understanding why things are done a certain way. The mini fashion show at the end, where everyone showed off their finished hems, was such a fun and rewarding moment.
For me, sewing is an essential skill because it builds confidence, creativity, and independence. It teaches you to slow down, problem-solve, and truly understand the clothes you wear. In a world of fast fashion, knowing how to sew even at a basic level gives you the power to repair, reuse, and reconnect with your wardrobe in a more meaningful way.