Fashion Studies can be just for FUN - Student Highlight on Kasia K.

Kasia is such a fun sewing student, always eager to learn new things. She has an amazing sense of color and style. I think she is super cool! Here is a little more about Kasia in her own words:

What kind of work do you do, when you are not sewing?

I work at Levi Strauss as a paralegal managing the trademark portfolio and assisting with brand enforcement. I have been there almost a year but it’s been fun having work somewhat coincide with my sewing adventures.

When did you start sewing/how long have you been sewing?

I have dabbled in sewing since high school. The first item of clothing I made was a pair of lounge pants without a pattern. I just cut the fabric in the shape of pants and sewed. They were pretty sad. 

In my twenties I took a sewing class at Stone Mountain Daughter. It was great but it didn’t help push me over the sewing edge. I’ve always owned a sewing machine but was so intimidated by it. 

I’ve been immersed in sewing since August 2022 when I started taking classes at the sewing room.

What are your interests outside of sewing?

Outside of sewing I’ve been an obsessive knitter since 2003. I love all things knitting. I’ve also picked up Bargello, a type of needlepoint from the 70’s. I will also partake in anything crafty especially since I have an art obsessed 7 year old daughter. But really knitting is my #1 love. Sewing is getting very close to first place.

Why did you want to learn how to sew?

I have always loved the idea of making things instead of buying them. But to be able to make one’s clothes has always been a desire. I have no desire to be a designer. I only want it have it as a skill. Like with knitting, I can see something in a store or on someone that I like and then go home and knit it. I want to do the same thing with sewing. 

What is your favorite part about sewing/the clothing making process (design, pattern, sewing, fabric etc.)?

I don’t think I have a favorite part. Each step offers me something different. Looking for patterns and fabric is obviously a huge joy for me. However the planning of it, getting the fabric, washing, ironing, cutting, piecing it together has forced me to S L O W down. That whole process used to intimidate me. But once I did it a few times, I realized how good it was for me. I go, go, go all the time. I can knit anywhere anytime even if a few rows. But sewing, sewing forces me to set aside a big chunk of time, to slow down, be methodical, and focused on one project. 

What are your #sewinggoals and/or ambitions?

My sewing goals are to have a handmade wardrobe. I definitely have more hand knit sweaters than store bought. I would like to have the same for other clothing items. I also would like to make myself one fancy dress. 

The projects I’m currently working on are a second pair of Landers pants this time in blue corduroy, and another Noodlehead tote bag with some beautiful Japanese print fabric.  

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I hope you enjoyed meeting Kasia. Her passion for making her own wardrobe is very inspiring. Our Fashion Studies program has helped Kasia realize some of her dreams. I invite you to check out our Spring 2024 class schedule on our Fashion Studies page and APPLY if you are interested in learning more about how to create your own wardrobe.