Does your inner sewing genius need to be unleashed? Here’s a hot tip from DECA’s own Mary Cowan:
Have you ever learned to sew? Always wanted to? Been intimidated by the sleek machines, a fearsome instructor and the angst of veering an eighth of an inch off course? For me, the prospect brought back memories of grade 7 Home Economics class and all the horror that came with it.But somehow, I still signed up for MaMa Ra’s sewing sessions a few weeks ago. Heather Tormey lives just off Dawes Road, and has been offering up a full slate of sewing classes at her home — how to make skirts, rag rugs, cloth dolls and even private tutorials. This lady knows what she’s doing. She sells the children’s clothing she makes on Etsy and at local arts and craft shows, including our very own Danforth East Arts Fair.Step into MaMa Ra’s lush backyard and find her Brother sewing machine set up under a canvas tent. There’s nothing intimidating about it. She’s been using the same machine since she was a teen (and it works just fine, thank you very much). She also provides more machines for group lessons, so you don’t have to worry about hauling your own.As you figure out your project, cut and stitch, Heather will use words like “excellente” and “wonky.” If your stitches veer off course, her steady hand will help guide you back into place. No drama, no tears. And, most likely, no stitch ripping.Heather’s five-year-old daughter might bring you a snack as you sew — mine was a single-serving yogurt with five carefully chosen, handpicked raspberries from the bush at the back of the yard. And I’ll tell you this on the sly: Heather’s also got wine glasses. If you bring a bottle, she might let you use them.
The sessions are $20 per hr for private lessons (2 hr minimum) and $70 for a group lesson (4 hours). (Note: Prices are have been corrected – apologies for our error in the original post, which many of you get by e-mail.)
For more information, email LittleRas(at)rogers.com. There are a number of different sessions with availability, including skirts and cloth dolls later this week!
If you can’t get to a session, be sure to swing by the Danforth East Arts Fair in East Lynn Park on September 15 & 16. Heather is going to be one of the more than 50 artisans selling their wares. Her business is called Little Ra’s and she’ll have gorgeous, functional children’s clothes for sale.
