Sewing Business: The Lilac Needle by Bri
Looking for some inspiration about starting a sewing business? We’ve got you covered!
In our Sewing Inspiration series, we chat with different artists about their sewing businesses and how they’ve found a way to blend sewing into work that they love. Learn about their inspirations, insights and more.
Today, it’s all about Bri, owner and creative mind behind The Lilac Needle. She’s a technology professional during the day and a sewist by all other accounts. Bri sews garments, tests patterns and writes about her sewing journey on The Lilac Needle Blog. We love that she started with cotton fabric patterns but switched to knits as her love of garment sewing grew. (I feel super inspired by this as I’m in pretty much that position currently!) Read on for more from Bri!
How did you first get started sewing?
I first started sewing in 2015 after wanting to find a project that would (hopefully) take me less time than the current scarf I was crocheting. Originally, I was making small things like simple clutches, box pouches, and small sewing projects mainly using cotton fabric.
In 2017 I decided I wanted a new challenge and started diving deep into garment sewing. Since then I have not turned back and keep wanting to make things that I can wear and say “yes I made that!”
What was the path to creating your sewing business?
As I was becoming more comfortable with garment sewing, I really wanted to start sharing my work more. Not just with friends and family but the general public as well. So, my blog “The Lilac Needle” was born! I also wanted to keep myself accountable to not take long breaks between projects since I needed to post at least semi regularly.
Now that I have a bit more of a schedule for my makes and posts, the next challenge I am hoping to tackle soon is starting a business from both my blog and sewing. Still working out what I am looking to make and sell but planning my next steps has been a fun new challenge.
Where do you look for sewing inspiration?
I mainly get my inspiration from Instagram, Pinterest, and all the Facebook groups I’ve joined for both PDF pattern companies and fabric companies. I try to follow accounts that I am a fan of their work.
What is your advice to a beginner sewist?
Practice practice practice. I also recommend trying new techniques, new patterns, and keep challenging yourself. Don’t worry if the project doesn’t come out perfect. You can always try again and learn what needs to improve!
What is your favorite thing to sew/make?
At the moment I have been really into making working attire. Specifically leggings and sports bras (I never need to buy one again!). However, I will always have a soft spot for loungewear.
Thanks for checking out our latest sewlebrity spotlight! We hope you feel as inspired as we do! To read about more entrepreneurs and their sewing business, head over to our Sewing Inspiration series.
Head over to The Lilac Needle for more from Bri. And happy sewing!
