In 2018, I decided to give sewing a try after seeing how much my sister was enjoying it. Her kind mother-in-law heard that I was interested in learning and generously gave me one of her many sewing machines that she had inherited from family. It’s a Kenmore, and it has become so precious to me.
My very first project was the Stockholm Dress and Shirt pattern from Ikatee. I found a beautiful green fabric with tiny white dots at a shop in Ottawa called Fabrications. I still remember how confused I was by the directions, but my mother-in-law patiently helped me figure them out.
Since then, I’ve made many of my own clothes, mended countless items, and created so many precious memories along my sewing journey.
A couple of months ago, as a stay-at-home mom with kids in school, I began looking for part-time, flexible work. That turned out to be quite a challenge! My career as an Early Childhood Educator doesn’t offer many part-time options, so I decided to dive into something I could do from home — something that made me feel creative and fulfilled.
That’s how Rachelle Designs was born.
I had so many ideas for what I wanted to make that I didn’t want to limit myself to just one thing. I started by sewing buntings and applied to a few local markets. I received many rejections — and one yes, which was all I needed. My first market is coming up this December at my local library, and I couldn’t be more excited.
After that, I ordered more fabric from a Canadian shop and began making reusable fabric gift bags. One day, I had the idea to create book covers — especially for bullet journal lovers like me — and I dove into researching and designing them. I’ve already made a few that I love and can’t wait to make more one-of-a-kind pieces.
I’m really enjoying the process of learning, growing in my sewing skills, and creating unique items that add beauty to everyday moments. Thank you for following along — I’m so happy you’re here at the beginning of this new chapter with me. 💛