I love that "It makes me happy" is the new, correct form of justification for doing all those things people say you either shouldn't be doing (for "reasons") or say you "shouldn't be bothering with". Embroider those hooks, Lady. Embroider those hooks!
Those hooks were just " MMMUAH"(Tight lipped loud kissy sound). Now I WISH I had that kind of skill and control at hand sewing, but alas that is at the present moment only a dream. Maybe one day I shall have to hop to and attempt to learn. Ms. Cathy, Beautiful as always.
I am definitely going to start making my hooks this pretty. It’s just lovely, so much pickier than my usual messy “just get them on” type of finishing. It’s the little things that can bring is so much joy, and I definitely feel joy looking at Cathy’s hooks.
I've been using "it brings me joy" As in I bought some insane platform sandals with holographic straps which, at 25, I'm pushing the envelope on being young enough to wear. And they hardly suit anything in my wardrobe. BUT they make me stupidly joyous when I see them so I ignore their "ugliness"
I make hand made Custom Fit Bras I think that looks so much nicer for hook and eyes. I think I could make my own parts that way. There is a tutorial on bra hook and eye closure I think I will try it with the next one.
Your grandmother must have been a couturier. Those "fancy stitches" are the sort of work that is mandatory for haute couture. Garments made by couturiers are often more handwork than machine sewing and require a great deal of talent with a hand-sewing needle. (Let alone they are prized and expensive)
Just dropping by to say I wanted to search pictures of cats today but my phone was all "did you mean Cathy Hay??" and my drowzy brain went Yes. You are the best cat of a person
i never realised how awesome pockets on dresses are until someone gave me a silk dress with surprise pockets and now i just cant unthink about them on clothes with no pockets
In nursing we never say the “Q” word (quiet) as it’s sure to make the ward super busy. Maybe in sewing it should be the same for the word quick, forever known as the “Q” word!
I HATE the Q word in nursing, so I wholeheartedly agree with this. Like, people saying the Q word is almost asking for trouble, and apparently every profession has their own Q word
Soooo true! We were having a less strenuous night one night when I was in residency, and one of the new residents came in and said, “Wow! It’s Quiet!” Every single eye turned to him glaring! I turned to him and said “We never say the Q word!” He replies, “what? Quiet? Surely you’re not superstitious!” I turned to him and said, “you will learn that it never pays to tempt fate.” He learned. Our night did not stay quiet. The next time I worked with him he came in and said “Boy, it’s . . .” (Faces my stink eye) “less busy than at some other times.”
Did the same when I was working as an EMT. I said it once and we were cursed! I never said it again and it became the Q word lol! I guess it's a standard across the medical field.
I don't know if you'll see this Ms. Hay, but I'd just like to say thanks for all the positive nudging this past year. Between you and Ms. Banner, I've really been inspired to go deeper into my sewing capabilities (or lack thereof). I've really been struggling the past two years in finding/cultivating activities that give me purpose and satisfaction in a largely home-bound circumstance. I'm even gonna take a crack at that competition you announced! Winning is irrelevant in my eyes - just trying my best will suffice. Thanks again, be well, and Merry Christmas. 🙏
Same here although I don't make clothing, just crazy quilt squares from scraps & remnants. Without their inspiration, I wouldn't have picked up a needle again for who knows how long...
Me too! I started my sewing adventure very recently and just completed my first wearable project. The satisfaction and sense of accomplishment is something I could get used to. All thanks to these wonderful, inspiring women ❤️
My craft is costume-adjacent (chain maille), but Cathy and Bernadette keep me renewed with energy and faith to keep working for the joy of it. They are professionals and this is their livelihood. But still, suffused with joy. For the rest of us, we need to turn away from the idea that only that which makes money is good, that we need to turn our joy into a side-hustle, that there is no intrinsic value of creating for its own sake.
It is actually nice to see that even brilliant people like you underestimate projects. I'm notorious for that! Also I absolutely LOVE this skirt and that you saved an otherwise wasted project.
"Just do the thing and keep on doing the blasted thing until you can no longer deny that it is, in fact, absolutely and irevocably, completly bloody well done." LOVED IT! My new motto!
This community is one full of absolute rock stars!!! So much of the best of society is here without all the toxicity that has taken over others. It truly is inspiring! CosTubers, History Bounders, Hobbyists (and so forth) Lets make the world beautiful again! Merry Christmas(Happy Holidays for those others out there). I hope you have many wonderful blessings this season and onwards.
@@CarmenShenk Mine, too... the language is far spicier. Of course, we’re shouting at ourselves. My “brain-to-needle coordination” loses something in translation from intent to execution. (Some of my projects do look as though they’ve been executed).
I love watching this. It’s weird but seeing Cathy, our sewing fairy godmother and gentle teacher, struggle with a project that should be simple makes me feel really good. She does talk about it in videos, and I know she does struggle sometimes, but seeing it happen and feeling the feelings with her makes me feel really calm and like everything is going to be okey
OMG CATHY I can totally relate to the part at around 7 minutes where you're talking about being frustrated at how you thought it was going to take less time than it needed - I have the same problem with all of my creative writing project! EVERY single time I start a new writing project, base on my idea I can usually give an estimate to the length, and EVERY SINGLE TIME, the length of the final project is almost exactly double the estimated length! It's so consistent that it has become a running joke amongst my peers, and yet whenever I finish a new project, I'm still somehow shocked to discover that the final word count is again double that of my initial estimate XP
Interestingly, I found myself getting so much less frustrated and annoyed that I was taking a long time, when I started taking more care over my projects (actually finishing my seams and hand felling the hem ect.), so now, even though it takes me much much longer, I am so much happier with my result (also, I was so shook when I heard your voice, it sounds amazing!!!)
Nicely DONE! And a fine lesson in sticking with it through the crappy phase. The crappy phase is present in EVERY creative project. It’s usually when beginners give up.
@@VaryaEQ Yes! Keep going! the truth is that all of us are alone in our learning. There's always UA-cam to help you, remind you, and encourage. But the learning is a solitary experience. And learning is fueled by failure. Mistakes are a part of becoming good at what you do. I am a painter, and I tell my painting students, "painting is just a series of mistakes that you try to solve." That is the truth about all creative endeavors. There is an awful lot of bad work in the beginning, as you go along, it gets easier and you get better. The only difference between good work and bad, is continuing, and solving the problems. Bad paintings are paintings that someone gave up painting. The same is true for sewing, knitting, cooking, skiing, skating, basketball, tennis, working out, meditation, mothering, ...etc. etc. Keep going! Be kind to yourself as you learn, don't be the worst teacher you ever had, be the best teacher. Say nice things to yourself about how brave you are. Take time to look back at the beginning efforts, so you can see your progress now.
Cathy: "Go on, I DARE you to take longer!" Me: LOL! EVERY project takes at least double the time I think it will! Also, OMG those gorgeous button hole stitches with perle cotton to stitch down your hooks! On no, I'm probably going to have to do this from now on...
10:20 gives me comfort. It's comforting to know that experienced sewers are incredibly humbled when they make mistakes. I'm glad I'm not the only one who feels hopeless and fraudulent when sewing projects goes awry. It makes me feel less alone.
At the beginning, when you said quick and easy, my eyes got big as saucers... as you have a mile of hem and a half mile of waistband. And then you mentioned all the seams needed finishing and the top of the hem facing, my eyed slammed shut as I pictured Bernadette hand felding for days and days and days. But when you said that you had thought you'd get her done in an evening, I burst out in a loud roar... Something I never do. You've made my day because EVERY project I start is only going to take five minutes, instead if five days. So thank you I letting me know that I'm not alone! ❤🌅🌵😷 p.s. Very nice make. Thank you for finally sharing it with us.
7:10 I cannot begin to describe how many times I have started a task (big or small) in my life and felt stupid not knowing how long it would actually take or how complicated it actually was going to be. Nothing, and I do mean nothing, will ever be what you expected, but I’ve found that everything can and should be a learning experience. I suppose it’s the only way one can say they are a professional, since they’ve failed more time than the novice has even tried.
This is an altogether strange feeling to have about someone who is a total stranger from the inter-webs but... I’m so proud of you!? Is that weird?? I love watching you and listening to you and seeing your journeys and was so excited to see this video pop up!
Oh, my giddy aunt. That green cottolin is absolutely fabulous! I love it so much! And then the embroidered initials and year in the waistband is just amazing.
Reminds me of people taking a look at historical garments and wondering why they did it like that. And it looks different on the other side etc..... your video explains it all. Because.... life!😍
Hello Adopted Mom! 👋I can hear more of your voice in this video than your whisper, and I love it!! I would love to hear more! When you shouted "That's it!" joyfully, that's when I think you started to sound like you.
The groan of a crafter realizing and accepting that a return project is not going to be quick, nor is it going to be easy. I recognize that groan from the depths of the soul. Oh, and I heartily approve all Mad Scientist in sewing, else how would half my projects get done?
This is like... warm tea for my soul. I feel like this about writing. It's a long and exhausting process sometimes and sometimes I want to click delete on everything and shake my fist up at the sky and shout, "Fine, okay?! You win!" A video like this really makes me sit up a little straighter and think, "She's right. Even if it takes me twice or thrice as long, this damn book is being written and it's being written by me."
I am so Happy you put your self out here on UA-cam my Niece just sent me your link, As she knows I Sew. I would Love to have tea with you and talk about projects and fabric. Thank you for being You!
I aspire to have just extensive stockpile of material that i could even consider hiding a fabric that gorgeous as a lining. The skirt is so beatiful :)
That William Morris pattern is very beautiful, glad this can be seen as the outside of the skirt and not as a lining. No one will notice if the pattern matching is off slightly on the placket because it’s barely seen. I like the two different fabrics, the linen shade and the cotton, it’s lovely. Yes those hooks and eyes are extra and just lovely.
Your perseverance has paid off so beautifully. I really appreciate how you are not a Pollyanna about the frustrations and hiccups we encounter in creating. You're honest and push through them nonetheless, letting them guide and teach you. That is what I seek for myself. Just do the thing indeed!
I had the same issue with my own walking skirt waistband-I added a bit of width to accommodate for any, ah, big meals I might intake (I don't have a corset yet to keep my waist consistent), but that causes the back of my skirt to pull down too much to be comfortable. It's wonderful to see all of us in these comments sharing our own struggles with a "simple" project such as a walking skirt 😅
I'd really love to make a skirt like this, bit pressure on my abdomen is quite painful due to medical conditions. I'm wondering if a corset would be better, since it's a more uniform pressure.
Cathy, this is my new favorite sewing vlog/tutorial format. Your emotional candor and empathy shines through even in simple things like "ooops I forgot to finish the seams". The video itself is splendidly edited and I will certainly be watching this multiple times. *Sigh and swoon* I know it might be a bit of a selfish ask for the great CEO and motivational expert Madam Hay, but could we please get a few more of these?
Fantastically British way of dealing with trouble: tea and cake to clear the mind. Then, back unto the breach! No such thing as too extra on the hooks! Thank you so much for these videos, Cathy. You are such an inspiration, and your clear vision is so helpful these days.
I must admit, having not even finished watching the video, I send love and respect for both your humour and vulnerability. I regularly experience the "oh it'll be easy" frustration and I'm not taking on nearly such beautiful and sophisticated projects. I'm instantly a fan.
You could easily have finished this project in an evening if you had “just.” But you didn’t. You chose to be consistent with your values and your standards and it took longer. I bet it’s so much more comfortable than if you had “just” and it’s certainly more beautiful. Quick, Cheap, Good - pick two because you cannot get all three. And I’m so happy that the lovely and delightful William Morris fabric is on an outside instead of an inside.
Cathy i love you. Just listening to you talking while you sew makes me smile. Its like hearing my own inner voice as I make mistakes or get excited about techniques I learn/use. Also that embroidery finish on your buttonhooks is breathtaking and I will definitely trying this as soon as I can order in silk button twist for my own walking skirt!! This year was very hard for me(death of my husband, loss of job and income, forced to live with a roommate from hell) and somehow has turned on its head by the end of the year. I'm now working running a sewing and craft workshop for rural area(to mainly help combat isolation), I've moved in with my girlfriend(who if you believe in those things I have no doubt my husband had a hand in us meeting.) And I got more sewing done in the last few months (historical garments at that) than I have done on a whole year. After my husband passed I just didn't have the heart or energy to sew. Now I just feel so happy and content to be trying all these new techniques and in a way it helps me honor him as he was my biggest cheerleader when It came to sewing. Hoping I can get a foundations revealed membership again as last time I did was right when my husband took a downswing so I never got to really try any of the techniques I'd been drooling over. My partner is actually willing to pay my first month
I really appreciate you showing us your process. A lot of us novice seamsters create in a "vacuum" without a lot of contact without seeing others' process of problem solving and all the frustrations that it can bring. It leads to the false thinking that everyone else is an "expert" while we muddle along feeling rubbish about our efforts. Thank you for showing us that everyone has to persist when it's hard and when we're frustrated!
Not only do I just love to watch you create your beautiful garments with such attention to detail and authenticity, but your turn of phrase is so wonderful I can often chortle over it for hours. 'This heartbreaking work of misguided genius is the pocket.' Ok, maybe I'm weird but that made me laugh so much it lifted me right out of my downer. 💗 Many thanks.
"Which is very satisfying if you have control issues" is the most relatable thing ever 😂 Lovely video Cathy, looking forward to more sewing from you! ❤️
Well, this explains the reproachful looks of seamstresses when people bring them "easy" alterations or great aunts half finished dress projects 😆 Gorgeous, gorgeous skirt - and green too! So beautiful 🤗 As a side note - I actually like learning all the words that are used differently between British and American English (and Australian and Canadian and so on? 😄) and all the specific terms for specific little details. It saves a lot of confusion for a non native English speaker to first hear these words in a relaxed sewing Sunday vs when out and about on ones own.
I liked this, not just because of the sewing lesson but because of the life lesson! I sat and took in, and thought I can’t give up! Persevere, persevere, persevere!
watched this while finishing off a knitting project that has been a pain prettymuch since I started with it and enjoyed the mutual anger at getting it "bloody well done". TAKE THAT
That skirt is gorgeous and I love your energy! Your frustration turning into pure spite until it's just happy stubbornness is so entertaining and inspiring. Thank you for a lovely video!
The last last bit made me laugh out loud - and my non-sewing husband laughed too when I replayed it for him 🤣 It looks stunning and so is that belt ❤ absolutely the right decision on the back hem - you'd never have been happy with the look of the narrower hem as you swished around and caught sight of yourself in shop windows - well when we're allowed out to swish around in the future!
I still come back to this video whenever I get annoyed at how long my sewing projects take. This video helps me to remember that UA-cam creates the allusion that a beautiful project can be done in a few “short day”. This is a window back into reality and encourages me to just keep working when and where I can.
I love this style of pockets. You can make them so big!!! I love the idea of looking like Mary Poppins while also having massive pockets that make people think that maybe I do have magic pockets after all. I also love this style of boing totally overboard on the hooks and eyes. I freaking love doing that. I find it so satisfying to know that every single part of the clothes I make, are made with such meticulous attention to detail. It makes me ridiculously happy and satisfied.
This is one of my favorite videos. I love the insight into the making of the skirt but also the reminder that we are always learning and can make mistakes. Most importantly not to give up when we do make mistakes. Thank you Cathy.
Cathy Hay + victorian skirt + Preraphaelite William Morris + control issues sewing...I'm in heaven 😍😍😍 (Your voice is so much stronger, congratulations!)
I recently began sewing again and have decided to submit my contact information to pattern creators as the person to "test drive" their patterns. If there is a mistake to be made, I WILL find it! (I say in good humor and with a chuckle.) I marvel at your patience with yourself and at your problem-solving abilities and your skills are manifest!
Thank you for clearing up the tacking/basting thing! I'm UK and was taught tacking and was always confused as why others called it basting. The more you know 🌈🌠
I have been knitting a woolen blanket for four years now. Loads of individual squares. So many times I have wanted to give up. This video has made me want to continue. This thing will be done. One day. I dare you to beat me blanket!!!
I was actually watching this while painting the "Super-easy, weekend-project sewing table" that I've spent the last month trying to get finished. It actually really nice to know that way more competent people than me run into problems too. So thanks for the reminder that it doesn't matter how long it takes so long as you keep going. I really really needed it today :)
I love it! I'm so glad you found someone to help with editing, now we get delicious sewing videos wherein you apply all the motivating advice you give us 😍
I don’t sew but am enjoying your videos because I relate to the challenges and joys for my own projects. I love your honesty, wisdom and humor. Thank you!
Dear Ms. Hay, I used to live in England nine years ago and I do so miss it. Thank you for sharing your lovely skirt, letting me look out you window at the roofs, and walk through the garden with you.
That is amazing! The number of times I have had that same feeling of “and another weekend, nope, not this weekend either”. I am so glad you got the blasted thing DONE!! Huzzah!
I love that "It makes me happy" is the new, correct form of justification for doing all those things people say you either shouldn't be doing (for "reasons") or say you "shouldn't be bothering with". Embroider those hooks, Lady. Embroider those hooks!
Those hooks were just " MMMUAH"(Tight lipped loud kissy sound). Now I WISH I had that kind of skill and control at hand sewing, but alas that is at the present moment only a dream. Maybe one day I shall have to hop to and attempt to learn. Ms. Cathy, Beautiful as always.
THIS!
I am definitely going to start making my hooks this pretty. It’s just lovely, so much pickier than my usual messy “just get them on” type of finishing. It’s the little things that can bring is so much joy, and I definitely feel joy looking at Cathy’s hooks.
++
I've been using "it brings me joy"
As in I bought some insane platform sandals with holographic straps which, at 25, I'm pushing the envelope on being young enough to wear.
And they hardly suit anything in my wardrobe.
BUT they make me stupidly joyous when I see them so I ignore their "ugliness"
"I have a brilliant idea!"
Many frustrating boring hours later "whose idea was this??"
Every creative ever
EVERY Creative Ever. Me, today. I needed this video and YOUR comment, so much more than you may ever know...Thank you!! xx
Have the same situation. "its Just to finish hem And waist band." 20 hours later. "Who the Hell choice this printed material." 😂
Every single time. lol
That was me this morning when I tried to make a market bag and realized I hadn't touched my needles in like a YEAR and forgot how to crochet again XD
Excuse me, but whose loud and powerful voice is this? Cathy, bravo!!
My thoughts exactly 🥰
Gotta love the progress! How amazing 😊
Yes, I've noticed that this pandemic seems to be helping Cathy's voice.
My thoughts too! So impressed by Cathy!
Wanted to say the same!!❤️❤️❤️
“Keep doing the thing until it accepts that it’s going to be done.” The motivational speech I didn’t know I needed.
It accurately describes the hell of all the rewrites I'm presently doing for University....
Cathy Hay: "A nice EASY thing"
Sewing Gods "Oh Reeeally? Hold my needle"
This made me laugh a lot. I love what you have typed. I have felt the same way about all the crafts that I do. Thank you.
😭Why does that always happen?
Stealing that expression !!
My grandmother always did the fancy stitches on her hooks and eyes and buttons, always. Now I do too, and I don't even question why.
I do as well. It's how mother taught me.
I think it looks beautiful. If ever I use one now I will be doing this
I’d never considered it before but now I’ll only ever make mine fancy, a new generation of ‘extra’ sewers is born I think :D
I make hand made Custom Fit Bras I think that looks so much nicer for hook and eyes. I think I could make my own parts that way. There is a tutorial on bra hook and eye closure I think I will try it with the next one.
Your grandmother must have been a couturier. Those "fancy stitches" are the sort of work that is mandatory for haute couture. Garments made by couturiers are often more handwork than machine sewing and require a great deal of talent with a hand-sewing needle. (Let alone they are prized and expensive)
Just dropping by to say I wanted to search pictures of cats today but my phone was all "did you mean Cathy Hay??" and my drowzy brain went Yes. You are the best cat of a person
Now THAT is high praise! Thank you!
I love all of this
Cathy and Bernadette are my spirit-makers, but cats are my spirit animal. 🪡🧵🐈
22:17
Cathy Hay: Spins
Birds: Fly! Go! Make her look like she's a Princess!
“Pocketses”!
When pocketses ARE precious
Ikr?❤❤❤😁🧙♂️
Pocketses for Hobbitses
i never realised how awesome pockets on dresses are until someone gave me a silk dress with surprise pockets and now i just cant unthink about them on clothes with no pockets
Yes!
In nursing we never say the “Q” word (quiet) as it’s sure to make the ward super busy. Maybe in sewing it should be the same for the word quick, forever known as the “Q” word!
Agreed. That happens to me alot in my sewing.
I HATE the Q word in nursing, so I wholeheartedly agree with this. Like, people saying the Q word is almost asking for trouble, and apparently every profession has their own Q word
Oh isn't that the truth lol
Soooo true! We were having a less strenuous night one night when I was in residency, and one of the new residents came in and said, “Wow! It’s Quiet!” Every single eye turned to him glaring! I turned to him and said “We never say the Q word!” He replies, “what? Quiet? Surely you’re not superstitious!” I turned to him and said, “you will learn that it never pays to tempt fate.” He learned. Our night did not stay quiet. The next time I worked with him he came in and said “Boy, it’s . . .” (Faces my stink eye) “less busy than at some other times.”
Did the same when I was working as an EMT. I said it once and we were cursed! I never said it again and it became the Q word lol! I guess it's a standard across the medical field.
I don't know if you'll see this Ms. Hay, but I'd just like to say thanks for all the positive nudging this past year. Between you and Ms. Banner, I've really been inspired to go deeper into my sewing capabilities (or lack thereof). I've really been struggling the past two years in finding/cultivating activities that give me purpose and satisfaction in a largely home-bound circumstance. I'm even gonna take a crack at that competition you announced! Winning is irrelevant in my eyes - just trying my best will suffice. Thanks again, be well, and Merry Christmas. 🙏
Same here although I don't make clothing, just crazy quilt squares from scraps & remnants. Without their inspiration, I wouldn't have picked up a needle again for who knows how long...
Me too! I started my sewing adventure very recently and just completed my first wearable project. The satisfaction and sense of accomplishment is something I could get used to. All thanks to these wonderful, inspiring women ❤️
I'd also reccomend Morgan and Micarah Tewers!
Same. I’ve said similar to several costuming channels, I’ve even bought myself a “new” (1910) sewing machine to keep pushing my skills onward
My craft is costume-adjacent (chain maille), but Cathy and Bernadette keep me renewed with energy and faith to keep working for the joy of it. They are professionals and this is their livelihood. But still, suffused with joy. For the rest of us, we need to turn away from the idea that only that which makes money is good, that we need to turn our joy into a side-hustle, that there is no intrinsic value of creating for its own sake.
Cathy, deadpan "I'm taking off about half a mile at the back"
hahaha XD
Software engineers call this creeping elegance. You are a fabric engineer! That's how I describe myself, too. Well done.
Watching Cathy sew, listening to her puzzle out her skirt and show us that indomitable spirit, absolutely wonderful.
It is actually nice to see that even brilliant people like you underestimate projects. I'm notorious for that! Also I absolutely LOVE this skirt and that you saved an otherwise wasted project.
"It's only the placket, Cathy. Calm down." Oh I so needed that. I may paint that on my wall in my sewing room!
my heart soared when you spliced that hem in higher up in the back.
Yes! Brilliant!!
Waste not, want not. :)
Came here to say this!
piecing is period-accurate, after all!
I saw where she was headed with that and genuinely chanted "do it do it do it!" out loud in my living room while watching that bit.
"Just do the thing and keep on doing the blasted thing until you can no longer deny that it is, in fact, absolutely and irevocably, completly bloody well done." LOVED IT! My new motto!
I might just cross stitch that quote with a picture of the beautiful completed skirt to hang above my desk as a reminder to keep doing the thing.
The reason I love this community on youtube is that I learn so many interesting things in such a motivating and fun way.
This community is one full of absolute rock stars!!! So much of the best of society is here without all the toxicity that has taken over others. It truly is inspiring! CosTubers, History Bounders, Hobbyists (and so forth) Lets make the world beautiful again! Merry Christmas(Happy Holidays for those others out there). I hope you have many wonderful blessings this season and onwards.
Love love love this!!
@@midnightqueen3332 Now yours is a “battle cry” I will honor!
"Tasty snacks in my enormous pockets" I love you Cathy:)
"You will not defeat me!" the battle cry proclaimed to all our UFO's.
My UFO’s hear a different sort of cry I’m afraid.
@@CarmenShenk hahaha I feel that
@@CarmenShenk Mine, too... the language is far spicier. Of course, we’re shouting at ourselves. My “brain-to-needle coordination” loses something in translation from intent to execution. (Some of my projects do look as though they’ve been executed).
I love watching this. It’s weird but seeing Cathy, our sewing fairy godmother and gentle teacher, struggle with a project that should be simple makes me feel really good. She does talk about it in videos, and I know she does struggle sometimes, but seeing it happen and feeling the feelings with her makes me feel really calm and like everything is going to be okey
OMG CATHY I can totally relate to the part at around 7 minutes where you're talking about being frustrated at how you thought it was going to take less time than it needed - I have the same problem with all of my creative writing project! EVERY single time I start a new writing project, base on my idea I can usually give an estimate to the length, and EVERY SINGLE TIME, the length of the final project is almost exactly double the estimated length! It's so consistent that it has become a running joke amongst my peers, and yet whenever I finish a new project, I'm still somehow shocked to discover that the final word count is again double that of my initial estimate XP
"Hand felling the raw edge down...for the glory."
Two days into my own "quick and easy" walking skirt, this was a well timed chuckle!
Interestingly, I found myself getting so much less frustrated and annoyed that I was taking a long time, when I started taking more care over my projects (actually finishing my seams and hand felling the hem ect.), so now, even though it takes me much much longer, I am so much happier with my result (also, I was so shook when I heard your voice, it sounds amazing!!!)
Nicely DONE! And a fine lesson in sticking with it through the crappy phase. The crappy phase is present in EVERY creative project. It’s usually when beginners give up.
I always say it isn't a real project if you don't end up cussing it out at least once.
So I'm hearing I need to just push through and keep going? Tricky as a newbie without any help. 😅
@@VaryaEQ Yes! Keep going! the truth is that all of us are alone in our learning. There's always UA-cam to help you, remind you, and encourage. But the learning is a solitary experience. And learning is fueled by failure. Mistakes are a part of becoming good at what you do. I am a painter, and I tell my painting students, "painting is just a series of mistakes that you try to solve." That is the truth about all creative endeavors. There is an awful lot of bad work in the beginning, as you go along, it gets easier and you get better. The only difference between good work and bad, is continuing, and solving the problems. Bad paintings are paintings that someone gave up painting. The same is true for sewing, knitting, cooking, skiing, skating, basketball, tennis, working out, meditation, mothering, ...etc. etc. Keep going! Be kind to yourself as you learn, don't be the worst teacher you ever had, be the best teacher. Say nice things to yourself about how brave you are. Take time to look back at the beginning efforts, so you can see your progress now.
Cathy: "Go on, I DARE you to take longer!"
Me: LOL! EVERY project takes at least double the time I think it will!
Also, OMG those gorgeous button hole stitches with perle cotton to stitch down your hooks! On no, I'm probably going to have to do this from now on...
I’m so glad I didn’t cut my fabric yet for my walking skirt! Looking forward to these tips and tricks!
I have the pattern cut and that's about it lol
I was going to make one but we just went into lockdown here so I can't buy fabric..
@@P0nyl0ve Have you tried buy fabric online?
@@P0nyl0ve Get some (cheap) muslin from the internet. You'll want to make a mockup first.
@@persiswynter6357 I hope we all buy from the small, individual companies, who really need our business to stay afloat.
10:20 gives me comfort. It's comforting to know that experienced sewers are incredibly humbled when they make mistakes. I'm glad I'm not the only one who feels hopeless and fraudulent when sewing projects goes awry. It makes me feel less alone.
At the beginning, when you said quick and easy, my eyes got big as saucers... as you have a mile of hem and a half mile of waistband. And then you mentioned all the seams needed finishing and the top of the hem facing, my eyed slammed shut as I pictured Bernadette hand felding for days and days and days. But when you said that you had thought you'd get her done in an evening, I burst out in a loud roar... Something I never do. You've made my day because EVERY project I start is only going to take five minutes, instead if five days. So thank you I letting me know that I'm not alone! ❤🌅🌵😷 p.s. Very nice make. Thank you for finally sharing it with us.
Cathy: "nice and easy."
Me: *Mad laughter*
It ended up very beautifull, that green fabric is gorgous.
7:10
I cannot begin to describe how many times I have started a task (big or small) in my life and felt stupid not knowing how long it would actually take or how complicated it actually was going to be.
Nothing, and I do mean nothing, will ever be what you expected, but I’ve found that everything can and should be a learning experience.
I suppose it’s the only way one can say they are a professional, since they’ve failed more time than the novice has even tried.
This is an altogether strange feeling to have about someone who is a total stranger from the inter-webs but... I’m so proud of you!? Is that weird?? I love watching you and listening to you and seeing your journeys and was so excited to see this video pop up!
Oh, my giddy aunt. That green cottolin is absolutely fabulous! I love it so much! And then the embroidered initials and year in the waistband is just amazing.
Reminds me of people taking a look at historical garments and wondering why they did it like that. And it looks different on the other side etc..... your video explains it all. Because.... life!😍
Hello Adopted Mom! 👋I can hear more of your voice in this video than your whisper, and I love it!! I would love to hear more! When you shouted "That's it!" joyfully, that's when I think you started to sound like you.
The groan of a crafter realizing and accepting that a return project is not going to be quick, nor is it going to be easy. I recognize that groan from the depths of the soul. Oh, and I heartily approve all Mad Scientist in sewing, else how would half my projects get done?
This is like... warm tea for my soul. I feel like this about writing. It's a long and exhausting process sometimes and sometimes I want to click delete on everything and shake my fist up at the sky and shout, "Fine, okay?! You win!" A video like this really makes me sit up a little straighter and think, "She's right. Even if it takes me twice or thrice as long, this damn book is being written and it's being written by me."
I am so Happy you put your self out here on UA-cam my Niece just sent me your link, As she knows I Sew. I would Love to have tea with you and talk about projects and fabric. Thank you for being You!
I aspire to have just extensive stockpile of material that i could even consider hiding a fabric that gorgeous as a lining. The skirt is so beatiful :)
I call that extra level the Eff You Moment. As in, "eff you if you're gonna beat me". The skirt is beautiful. ♥️♥️♥️
That William Morris pattern is very beautiful, glad this can be seen as the outside of the skirt and not as a lining. No one will notice if the pattern matching is off slightly on the placket because it’s barely seen. I like the two different fabrics, the linen shade and the cotton, it’s lovely. Yes those hooks and eyes are extra and just lovely.
Oh Cathy I chuckled all the way...how well I know those "just quickly" jobs :-D But we finish them by sheer determination and hard-headedness lol
You brought smile to my face. Well done! I love the fact that you Frankensteined that last tarlatan piece in!
Your perseverance has paid off so beautifully. I really appreciate how you are not a Pollyanna about the frustrations and hiccups we encounter in creating. You're honest and push through them nonetheless, letting them guide and teach you. That is what I seek for myself. Just do the thing indeed!
I’m amazed by how stronger your voice is getting ! Very inspiring 🤩🙌
I had the same issue with my own walking skirt waistband-I added a bit of width to accommodate for any, ah, big meals I might intake (I don't have a corset yet to keep my waist consistent), but that causes the back of my skirt to pull down too much to be comfortable. It's wonderful to see all of us in these comments sharing our own struggles with a "simple" project such as a walking skirt 😅
I'd really love to make a skirt like this, bit pressure on my abdomen is quite painful due to medical conditions. I'm wondering if a corset would be better, since it's a more uniform pressure.
Cathy, this is my new favorite sewing vlog/tutorial format. Your emotional candor and empathy shines through even in simple things like "ooops I forgot to finish the seams". The video itself is splendidly edited and I will certainly be watching this multiple times. *Sigh and swoon*
I know it might be a bit of a selfish ask for the great CEO and motivational expert Madam Hay, but could we please get a few more of these?
Fantastically British way of dealing with trouble: tea and cake to clear the mind.
Then, back unto the breach!
No such thing as too extra on the hooks!
Thank you so much for these videos, Cathy. You are such an inspiration, and your clear vision is so helpful these days.
18:42 Oh my god, your mindset has given me something to counteract the negative thinking that has overwhelmed and held me back for so many years
I must admit, having not even finished watching the video, I send love and respect for both your humour and vulnerability. I regularly experience the "oh it'll be easy" frustration and I'm not taking on nearly such beautiful and sophisticated projects. I'm instantly a fan.
You could easily have finished this project in an evening if you had “just.” But you didn’t. You chose to be consistent with your values and your standards and it took longer. I bet it’s so much more comfortable than if you had “just” and it’s certainly more beautiful. Quick, Cheap, Good - pick two because you cannot get all three.
And I’m so happy that the lovely and delightful William Morris fabric is on an outside instead of an inside.
Cathy i love you. Just listening to you talking while you sew makes me smile. Its like hearing my own inner voice as I make mistakes or get excited about techniques I learn/use. Also that embroidery finish on your buttonhooks is breathtaking and I will definitely trying this as soon as I can order in silk button twist for my own walking skirt!! This year was very hard for me(death of my husband, loss of job and income, forced to live with a roommate from hell) and somehow has turned on its head by the end of the year. I'm now working running a sewing and craft workshop for rural area(to mainly help combat isolation), I've moved in with my girlfriend(who if you believe in those things I have no doubt my husband had a hand in us meeting.) And I got more sewing done in the last few months (historical garments at that) than I have done on a whole year. After my husband passed I just didn't have the heart or energy to sew. Now I just feel so happy and content to be trying all these new techniques and in a way it helps me honor him as he was my biggest cheerleader when It came to sewing. Hoping I can get a foundations revealed membership again as last time I did was right when my husband took a downswing so I never got to really try any of the techniques I'd been drooling over. My partner is actually willing to pay my first month
I really appreciate you showing us your process. A lot of us novice seamsters create in a "vacuum" without a lot of contact without seeing others' process of problem solving and all the frustrations that it can bring. It leads to the false thinking that everyone else is an "expert" while we muddle along feeling rubbish about our efforts. Thank you for showing us that everyone has to persist when it's hard and when we're frustrated!
Not only do I just love to watch you create your beautiful garments with such attention to detail and authenticity, but your turn of phrase is so wonderful I can often chortle over it for hours. 'This heartbreaking work of misguided genius is the pocket.' Ok, maybe I'm weird but that made me laugh so much it lifted me right out of my downer. 💗 Many thanks.
Thank-you for showing the piecing from the inside. It's inspiring to know you can hold the scraps of the project in the palm of one hand.
😂 “just completely bloody well done!” I had to laugh and thought just how apt this is as I spy a part made quilt.
"Which is very satisfying if you have control issues" is the most relatable thing ever 😂 Lovely video Cathy, looking forward to more sewing from you! ❤️
Well, this explains the reproachful looks of seamstresses when people bring them "easy" alterations or great aunts half finished dress projects 😆
Gorgeous, gorgeous skirt - and green too! So beautiful 🤗
As a side note - I actually like learning all the words that are used differently between British and American English (and Australian and Canadian and so on? 😄) and all the specific terms for specific little details. It saves a lot of confusion for a non native English speaker to first hear these words in a relaxed sewing Sunday vs when out and about on ones own.
Even though this project was *very* difficult, it looks absolutely gorgeous on you!
(Also your voice sounds so good!!!)
I liked this, not just because of the sewing lesson but because of the life lesson! I sat and took in, and thought I can’t give up! Persevere, persevere, persevere!
I'm saving this for days when I need a little courage and motivation. Very well done
I’m sitting here hand stitching a corset as I watch this so it almost felt like we were sewing together xoxo
One of my goals for 2021 is to be able to make more long skirts just like this!
I only have outdated maxi skirts im attempting to repurpose😅
Yes me too. I have the pattern and all but the fashion fabric for one but I am so indecisive that I can’t pick a fashion fabric.
turn the maxi skirts into sundress or floaty tops.
Generally they're the perfect fabric for it
What a beautifully well made skirt, just like my grandmother’s dresses. A treat to wear. Nothing like home made well made clothes.
watched this while finishing off a knitting project that has been a pain prettymuch since I started with it and enjoyed the mutual anger at getting it "bloody well done". TAKE THAT
That skirt is gorgeous and I love your energy! Your frustration turning into pure spite until it's just happy stubbornness is so entertaining and inspiring. Thank you for a lovely video!
The last last bit made me laugh out loud - and my non-sewing husband laughed too when I replayed it for him 🤣 It looks stunning and so is that belt ❤ absolutely the right decision on the back hem - you'd never have been happy with the look of the narrower hem as you swished around and caught sight of yourself in shop windows - well when we're allowed out to swish around in the future!
I still come back to this video whenever I get annoyed at how long my sewing projects take. This video helps me to remember that UA-cam creates the allusion that a beautiful project can be done in a few “short day”. This is a window back into reality and encourages me to just keep working when and where I can.
Cathy, I’ve been in a project and wondered “what was I thinking?” more times than I can count! 👍🏻
I love this style of pockets. You can make them so big!!! I love the idea of looking like Mary Poppins while also having massive pockets that make people think that maybe I do have magic pockets after all.
I also love this style of boing totally overboard on the hooks and eyes. I freaking love doing that. I find it so satisfying to know that every single part of the clothes I make, are made with such meticulous attention to detail. It makes me ridiculously happy and satisfied.
This is one of my favorite videos. I love the insight into the making of the skirt but also the reminder that we are always learning and can make mistakes. Most importantly not to give up when we do make mistakes. Thank you Cathy.
Cathy Hay + victorian skirt + Preraphaelite William Morris + control issues sewing...I'm in heaven 😍😍😍
(Your voice is so much stronger, congratulations!)
I need a tutorial on how you sew your hooks! So beautiful!
yes!
Yes please! Hooks are an art
Yes!
Hi, Cathy! I adore your lovely Frankenskirt. 💖
I love love love the Noelle @costumingdrama reference!! Do the bloody thing!!🤩😍😘
I can hear a clear difference in the strength of your voice between the older footage and the modern voiceover. Well done!!
Already liked and damn right set alarm in IST to watch the premiere.
Congrats on the strength of mind! It serves me as a good example of how to take my time, get frustrated, yet not allow it to stop my work altogether
I recently began sewing again and have decided to submit my contact information to pattern creators as the person to "test drive" their patterns. If there is a mistake to be made, I WILL find it! (I say in good humor and with a chuckle.) I marvel at your patience with yourself and at your problem-solving abilities and your skills are manifest!
Love this. Inspired me to upgrade my cross stitch UFO's to WIP's; finished a couple so far. Didn't realize I had so many 🙄
Thank you for clearing up the tacking/basting thing! I'm UK and was taught tacking and was always confused as why others called it basting. The more you know 🌈🌠
Its comforting to know even the pros get overwhelmed by projects that defy the statement “quick and easy”! Beautiful fabric.
I love this... With all of it's challenges. And I learned a bit of a lesson and trick. Thank you for sharing! ❤🌷
I have been knitting a woolen blanket for four years now. Loads of individual squares. So many times I have wanted to give up. This video has made me want to continue. This thing will be done. One day. I dare you to beat me blanket!!!
You can do sewing videos whenever you want, it was delightful !
I was actually watching this while painting the "Super-easy, weekend-project sewing table" that I've spent the last month trying to get finished. It actually really nice to know that way more competent people than me run into problems too. So thanks for the reminder that it doesn't matter how long it takes so long as you keep going. I really really needed it today :)
I love it! I'm so glad you found someone to help with editing, now we get delicious sewing videos wherein you apply all the motivating advice you give us 😍
I don’t sew but am enjoying your videos because I relate to the challenges and joys for my own projects. I love your honesty, wisdom and humor. Thank you!
Gorgeous skirt!! It’s so great to see your process solving the little issues that came up. Thank you for sharing!
Dear Ms. Hay, I used to live in England nine years ago and I do so miss it. Thank you for sharing your lovely skirt, letting me look out you window at the roofs, and walk through the garden with you.
So pretty! Can’t wait! I made a version of a walking skirt- but this pic makes me want to make a real one! Can’t wait to watch!
It actually makes me happy to know that even experienced sewists make mistakes like I do. Also those skirt hooks though 😯
What a beautiful, calming video at the end of a very long week. ❤
That is amazing! The number of times I have had that same feeling of “and another weekend, nope, not this weekend either”. I am so glad you got the blasted thing DONE!! Huzzah!
Cathy your voice blossomed in this video. Wow
What an absolutely delightful Christmas present to see you sew! Not even talking about the glorious handwork...
I started yelling at my phone when you put the tarlatan scrap next to the hem, and woke up the cat.
What did you yell? I was unsure of my own feelings at that point. 😂
I stated chanting "do it do it do it" to my empty living room.
Watching these types of videos helped me realize that far greater sewers than I experience frustration. I now step back and take a break.