...and in with the new? And what is that?
Over the course of the last year, I've seen a tremendous drop in apron sales. No, not just in my shop alone but also in others, as well as a decline in vintage apron pattern sales on ebay or etsy.
Perhaps by now every other person owns an apron?
Perhaps by now every other person is sewing their own aprons?
Perhaps by now the vintage apron craze is over?
Such thoughts have run through my mind, and while it may or not be true, a seamstress who relies on sewing for extra income needs to be somewhat aware of what people are interested in. Why make scores of tea cozies if no one buys them, let alone uses them anymore? Of course on the flip side, if halter tops are in I will not be making or selling those because of personal modesty standards.
This summer the question that my mind is often thinking is "What do I sew?"
It has been well over a year or two since I last made a garment for myself since I'm finding hardly worn or new clothing at thrift stores for way cheaper than what I can make. As much as I love and miss sewing historical sewing there are no opportunities for me to wear such fun things outside of my own four walls.
Perhaps by now, after well over 11-12 years of having some kind of a sewing business (my sister and I did custom-made modest apparel for about 5-6 years, complete with a website and mail-order catalog) is it time to close this chapter of life and move on?
Over the course of the last year, I've seen a tremendous drop in apron sales. No, not just in my shop alone but also in others, as well as a decline in vintage apron pattern sales on ebay or etsy.
Perhaps by now every other person owns an apron?
Perhaps by now every other person is sewing their own aprons?
Perhaps by now the vintage apron craze is over?
Such thoughts have run through my mind, and while it may or not be true, a seamstress who relies on sewing for extra income needs to be somewhat aware of what people are interested in. Why make scores of tea cozies if no one buys them, let alone uses them anymore? Of course on the flip side, if halter tops are in I will not be making or selling those because of personal modesty standards.
This summer the question that my mind is often thinking is "What do I sew?"
It has been well over a year or two since I last made a garment for myself since I'm finding hardly worn or new clothing at thrift stores for way cheaper than what I can make. As much as I love and miss sewing historical sewing there are no opportunities for me to wear such fun things outside of my own four walls.
Perhaps by now, after well over 11-12 years of having some kind of a sewing business (my sister and I did custom-made modest apparel for about 5-6 years, complete with a website and mail-order catalog) is it time to close this chapter of life and move on?
Last I saw, there were well over 70 readers. I'm amazed that there could be so many who would take interest in my postings, and I'm humbly grateful. While I don't normally call out to any non-commenter's or lurkers, if you have any thoughts or ideas for me, I would love to hear from you!
Well, enough of my ponderings for today. I need to run to the store to pick up another package of bias tape (I was to lazy to make my own when I started this apron). It is almost finished, and I'd like to complete it this morning if possible. The fabric was cut out in the Ginnie style, (personal tastes coming out here, but the Laura Ashley fabrics seem to look best in this design) and how fitting too, since my last Ginnie apron was worn until practically thread bare. That was a couple of years ago, so it's been awhile since I've had one of these.
Yes. I'm still in love with vintage style aprons, and am constantly wearing one for either gardening, housework, or cooking. :)
5 comments:
Have you tried making and selling skirts? Or swimming suits? What about offering custom made clothing? Have you tried quilting? I bet rag quilts would sell. Plus, they are not as time consuming as a regular quilt would be. Just some ideas!
I'm sorry to hear your apron business is slacking off. It's sad to think of you giving up your sewing room! :( Off the top of my head, I'm wondering about maternity skirts, tops, and dresses -- it might be a way for you to bless expectant moms with your sewing skills and love of feminine clothing. I'll come back with another comment if I have any "brilliant" ideas, haha... :) I pray God will guide you to the right venture!
Have you thought about trying a little reselling, and making a small profit from the thrift stores? Apron Thrift Girl has had some wonderful advice about starting a small business this way. Since you are a thrifter anyway, it may be a good sideline for a student without a lot of time to sew? Best of luck to you. I find your blog very peaceful and refreshing place to visit, though I rarely comment on any blogs. --Suzanne http://apronthriftgirl.typepad.com/
I agree with Samantha - skirts. It is so hard to find good modest skirts that are pre-made. Just a thought....
How about peasant tops? They are very popular now, not to mention modest. The gorgeous materials that you can sew them from, oooh the possibilities are endless!
Not to mention ric-rac, ribbons etc....
Melanie
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