Sandy Miller Morning Sew'minar

Saturday, April 21, 2018

We coined the word “Sew’minar” just for our Sandy Miller Event. Sandy is a Sewing Professional who is widely regarded for her ability to communicate sewing skills. She writes for Threads and other magazines, records educational DVDs, and makes personal presentations nation-wide.  We are happy that she lives in Orlando and could spend some time with us.

Sandy Miller and Louise Cutting (a member of the ASG Sewing Hall of Fame) have collaborated for years.  Louise’s “Cutting Line Designs,” using Sandy’s straightforward directions, feature simple silhouettes and stylish details.  The garments are easy to sew, fun to wear, and teach a variety of techniques.

2017 American Sewing Guild Conference in Orlando.

Sandy began her talk by asking us to consider how to build a wardrobe.  She expanded our idea of “neutral” colors beyond the basics.  She pointed out many ways to combine texture, color, and patterns with those neutrals to add variety and interest.

Then, the real fun began.  Sandy showed us one beautiful garment after another.  Each item had a special technique that gave it personality.   Ever the teacher, Sandy would focus our attention on how we could achieve the same results.  Demonstrations for a collar with fewer seams, a perfect neck binding, and fool-proof facing techniques were “aha moments” for those who are new to clever construction methods. 

There were also many examples of ways to balance designs.  Sandy remarked how some elements work to draw attention and others unify.  The samples that we saw were lessons in pleasing the eyes. Even those who rarely sew clothes were ready to apply their new ideas on other projects.

During the break for refreshments, we had time to look through Sandy’s samples and also to admire the sewing talents of those attending the event.

The setting was lovely.  Sewing vignettes decorated the room.  Everyone received a Paper Doll wearing a lovely dress made from an organza pressing cloth.  Many guests were lucky door- prize winners.

After our Morning Sew’minar, we adjourned to a nearby restaurant to visit and discuss all that we had learned.  As usual, we had lots to talk about!  Sew much Fun!
                                                                                                                               Loni Martin, Events Chair

Sandy Miller with the ASG Orlando Chapter Advisory Board (CAB):
Lyn, Sandy, Lois, Pat, Rhonda, Loni