I Teach!
The Collective educators are showcased again in this next "I Teach!" article. I’m always amazed at how dedicated our industry talent is, and how diverse their backgrounds are. Whether it’s a new product set to revolutionize sewing, something as simple (yet complex) as a sewing machine needle, or an influencer with a great audience–these 3 continue to share and spread enthusiasm, and we ask them-Why do you teach?
Teaching can sometimes be a real challenge, and it completely changed during the pandemic. As a norm, educators were always traveling, but during this time were forced to find a different way to grow their programs online. Most everyone now hops on Zoom without a second thought. We watch and participate in webinars as a number one way to learn something new.
Instruction and teachers come in many forms, as do our Collective members. Creative consumers, retailers, and all of us in this industry are proud of the collective talent we are so fortunate to experience. Educators are simply the best! Thank you for doing what you do!
Laura Coia
SewVeryEasy
Sparking enthusiasm for sewing and quilting is a priceless endeavor I love empowering individuals to embrace their creativity, unhindered by the pursuit of perfection. I want them to dive in, have fun and enjoy the process. I’ve been passionate about sewing for over 45 years.
Throughout my journey, I’ve enjoyed quilting, tailoring and construction, seamstress work, and garment repairs. I am a published pattern designer, author of articles in several sewing and quilting magazines and I’ve published my own books; however, the one aspect that holds a special place in my heart is teaching.
In February 2014, I became a creator on YouTube and established youtube.com/sewveryeasy. My videos share tips and techniques in a way that makes sewing, quilting and crafting “so” very easy. Over 50 million people have watched, learned, and created their own quilts and crafts. Viewers love the free downloads I share that accompany my specialized courses.
Previously, I taught friends, family and acquaintances, but now, with my YouTube Channel, I have the incredible opportunity to connect with people all over the world. I teach the basics for the novice as well as tips, techniques and new ideas for the experienced. It’s exciting to share my love of sewing and quilting with people of all ages and skill levels.
Creatively connecting with people in a positive way is what drives my passion. My enthusiasm fuels my love for my profession, making every long, dedicated hour of work meaningful This is why I teach.
“I love empowering individuals to embrace their creativity, unhindered by the pursuit of perfection.”
VOLUME TWO
Amy McMullen Ditto
I love that my life led me to a career in teaching. My journey began when I started making dresses for my daughters. It was a way for me to express myself and find solace; however, my hobby evolved into something bigger than I ever imagined. It transformed into a full-fledged company. From my humble beginnings of being self-taught, I handled every aspect of the garments I produced. I quickly found myself navigating unchartered territory, learning the ropes of establishing a social media presence and managing a team of brand representatives.
When my daughter began school, I decided to embark on a new chapter in my life I joined SVP Worldwide as an education coordinator. Coincidentally, every garment I created had been made on a Singer machine. I believe fate had played its hand.
Now I teach as the lead educator for Ditto, one of SVP’s products that is transforming the pattern industry Ditto combines digital projection and algorithmic intelligence, making patterns projectable, adjustable and customizable.
As a woman who has struggled to find the perfect fit, I teach because I want everyone to have the ability to create garments that perfectly suit their bodies. I yearn for every person to experience the pride that comes from crafting a flawless pair of pants or feeling beautiful in a dress tailored specifically for them. Through teaching, I hope to ignite that sense of accomplishment in every stitch, allowing individuals to shine with confidence in the garments they create.
“As a woman who has struggled to find the perfect fit, I teach because I want everyone to have the ability to create garments that perfectly suit their bodies.”
Rhonda Pierce
Schmetz
A sewing machine is useless without the hardest working 2” piece of steel -- the needle. My mission is to take the mystery out of the process of choosing the right needle and to educate in an understandable and relatable manner. My career as spokesperson for Schmetz home sewing needles North America and VP/Marketing Director for Euro-Notions is an absolute dream! I love promoting this industry and selling needles.
There is often a preconceived notion about needles being boring. To capture audience attention, I mix personal sewing experience and needle knowledge with voice inflection and a few graphics With each presentation I feel I have only one chance to talk needles, so my introduction through the end is vibrant, relevant, and sometimes entertaining to maintain short attention spans throughout the fast-paced class.
My personal challenge lies in creating presentations that are educational and entertaining, and I strive to elevate respect for the needle while also increasing confidence in needle selection. I love when my students experience “a-ha” moments and giggle as they learn fascinating needle facts My biggest reward is that special sparkle in the eye when the consumer “gets” my needle points. Teaching, traveling, interacting with sewing and quilting fans, industry leaders, designers, authors, and small business owners from around the world is a joy and an inspiration. The endless ingenuity and creativity expressed through fabric never cease to amaze me Sewing and quilting are not just hobbies, they are my way of life.
“My biggest reward is that special sparkle in the eye when the consumer 'gets' my needle points.”
VOLUME TWO
