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Sewing machines back in style
Sewing machines have seen a surge in sales, as awareness for ethical issues has prompted people to get back to customising and making their own clothes.
Argos reports a 50% jump in sales of Brother and Singer machines, with the entry level models showing a growth of 500%.
Richard Webster, the Sewing Machine Buyer at Argos commented, 'We have been stocking sewing machines since our first Argos catalogue in 1973. Following a period when they were seen as unfashionable, we’re now seeing them return to favour, particularly the lower price models, popular with those embarking on home sewing for the first time. It’s a modern take on the ‘Make do and Mend’ attitude of previous generations and looks set to continue, especially with the challenging economic environment.'
Research suggests that the huge growth is a reflection of consumers' move away from disposable fashion, with an increased awareness of the environmental and ethical impact of cheap clothes.
Josie Nicholson, Founder Member and Project Manager of The Ethical Fashion Forum comments, 'Fast fashion has meant consumers have lost some of their individuality but customising your own clothes means that you can create your own unique style.'
The figures have been released in conjunction with the launch of Alternative Fashion Week, which starts today in East London. New designers will show off their collections, with many putting an emphasis on recycled textiles and materials
Monday 21 April 2008
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i have been sewing and making/repairing my own clothes for as long as i can remember but during my teenage years it was a really uncool hobby for me to have but as i've got older many people are quite jealous of my skills as sewing hasn't really been taught properly in school for years (i learnt from my Grandma). It is nice to know that at the age of 34 my hobby is becoming popular again ( and i still regularly use the sewing machine that was bought as an 18th birthday present-which was an unusual item to choose back then!)
Comment by Hilary Morgan on May 08 10:33
Recent press coverage has highlighted the growing interest in sewing activities as local sewing groups see more people of all different ages, including school children, signing up and wanting to learn how to restyle their wardrobe and homes.
Wendy Gardiner, Editor of Sewing World magazine points out that BBC TV News featured the new interest in sewing with a look at a sewing class of children in Hove. They also reported that sewing machines sales have soared over recent months according to giant retailer Argos.
BBC Three is broadcasting a four part thought-provoking programme called Blood, Sweat and T-shirts about garment manufacturing in India. We may be able to get cheap clothes from high street chains, but at what price to humanity!
It’s not surprising therefore that more and more people are conscious of fair-trading, want to be eco-friendly and are aware of ‘green’ issues, so sewing your own makes sense. And, with today’s modern machines it really is so very easy!
Wendy continues, “We’ve seen a huge increase in readership. People want to be original, they want to know that what they wear is ‘fair’ and of course the added bonus is that it’s a fun, affordable and rewarding hobby”.
BAG IT
Sewing World has covered the issue of the plastic bag ban with projects to make simple shopping totes in minutes in their January issue. “This year we are featuring many ‘restyle and recycle projects and techniques to help sewers find ways to be more eco-friendly. These include T-shirt make-overs, make bags from jeans or add trims to update last year’s outfit” said Wendy Gardiner. (FOR QUICK AND EASY STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS TO MAKE A ECO TOTE, SEE ATTACHMENT)
Sewing has always been a popular pastime for many women, but often it’s been almost a shared secret. Now it is trendy again – among all age groups, whether it’s to sew high fashion, update your décor or make crafts for charity sales.
More about Sewing World
Sewing World is continuing to spread the word. It’s a monthly magazine for people who want to learn to sew, love to sew and have fun with sewing. The June issue (on sale 16 May) has a free pattern inside and a free DVD offer for all readers – a 40 minute step-by-step guide showing how to make your own cushions, throws and wall art. “If you’ve never sewn before, get this issue and claim your DVD and you’ll never look back” said Wendy Gardiner. July issue has a special paper pattern supplement with great fashion designs just for readers and the August issue is the 150th and will be heavily promoted with hundreds of prizes worth over £6000. Sewing World is published by Traplet Publications. It is available from good newsagents nationally, hobbycraft outlets, fabric retailers and of course by subscription.
http://www.sewingworldmagazine.com
www.traplet.com
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Comment by Helen P on April 26 11:48
Don't know where Kathy lives but Abakhan Fabrics and The Bankrupt Shop both have outlets in the N Wales /Liverpool/Cheshire area (and websites).
Comment by A O'Connor on April 21 20:32
Did not know they had gone out of fashion as always using mine. It is difficult to find stores selling material for dressmaking these days so hopefully this will improve.
Comment by Kathy Downing on April 21 14:16
The news about sewing machines is music to my ears. I teach Textiles (in a boy's school) and I can only home this will mean a resurgence it the choice of fabrics available too. It hopefully will mean more competative prices also. I'm lucky enough to have really good facilities in school and consequently I am able to produce highly individual pieces of work and so can my pupils. Their exam results are living proof!
Comment by Brenda McNally on April 21 13:22