Why I Love Sewing: How a Gift at 47 Changed Everything

I still remember the day I received my first sewing machine. It was a gift, completely unexpected, and it arrived at a time in my life when I needed a little spark of creativity. I was 47 years old, and up until then, sewing was something I admired from afar. I’d always been an artisan at heart, dabbling in all sorts of crafting, but the world of needles, threads, and fabric had always felt a little out of reach.

A Gift That Sparked a Passion
When I first collected that sewing machine, I didn’t quite know what to make of it. It was shiny and new, filled with possibilities. But truth be told, I was intimidated. Would I be able to figure out how it worked? Would I even enjoy it? It didn’t take long to find out. From the very first stitch, I was hooked.

There was something magical about watching a flat piece of fabric transform into something three-dimensional and useful. A cushion cover, a tote bag, meters and meters of bunting, a handmade gift for a loved one—it felt like alchemy, turning simple materials into beautiful creations.

The Joy of Learning (and Making Mistakes)
Starting to sew in my late 40s was both exhilarating and humbling. I made plenty of mistakes—crooked seams, mismatched patterns, and the occasional disaster that ended up in the bin. But each mistake taught me something valuable, and each finished project gave me a sense of accomplishment that’s hard to describe.

Sewing taught me patience and persistence. It taught me to slow down, to take my time, and to appreciate the process as much as the finished product. It also reminded me that it’s never too late to learn something new.

A Creative Outlet and a Sense of Purpose
Sewing quickly became more than just a hobby for me. It became a creative outlet and a way to express myself. I fell in love with choosing fabrics, mixing colors, and experimenting with patterns. It was like painting, but with fabric and thread.

It also gave me a sense of purpose. Knowing that I could make something beautiful and functional with my own two hands was incredibly empowering. I started creating handmade gifts for friends and family, each piece crafted with love and care. And soon enough The Bunting Queen and Helen Smith Designs was born.

Why I Love Sewing
I love sewing because it allows me to bring my ideas to life. I love the tactile nature of the craft—the feel of fabric, the hum of the sewing machine, the rhythm of the needle as it weaves through the material. It’s meditative, therapeutic, and endlessly rewarding.

But more than that, sewing has connected me to a community of makers who share my passion for creating. It has inspired me to teach and to share my journey with others, especially those who think it’s too late to try something new.

It’s Never Too Late to Start
If there’s one thing I’ve learned on this sewing journey, it’s that creativity knows no age. I received my first sewing machine at 47, and it changed my life in ways I never imagined. It taught me new skills, gave me confidence, and opened the door to a world of possibilities.

So, if you’ve ever thought about trying something new—whether it’s sewing, painting, or any other creative endeavor—my advice is simple: go for it. You never know where it might take you.

For me, it led to a lifelong love of sewing and the joy of sharing that passion through Helen Smith Designs. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Happy crafting,
Helen Smith Crafting Artisan