Small Owls, Front

Sewn In Vermont is a homegrown business dedicated to creating whimsical, eco-friendly stuffed friends for the whole family to enjoy.

My mom taught me to sew and gave me my first sewing machine (which I only recently retired!).  Now with kids of my own, I wanted a way to contribute to our household income, accomplish something at the end of a day, and find a creative outlet.  I made my first owls in April, 2012 for my husband’s birthday.  He showed them off to friends and clients (he is a massage therapist with an office full of fun critters), and encouraged me to make more.  He bought me my second sewing machine, and Sewn in Vermont came to life.

I sell at craft fairs and farmers markets close to home, and Revolution in White River Junction, Vt.

Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions. Want to know more? Write to me at sharon@sewninvermont.com. I look forward to hearing from you!

Where are you located?

I sew at home in White River Junction, Vermont.  My little nook tucked by the attic stairs is just big enough for me, my sewing machine, and my fabric stash!

What fabrics do you use and where do you get them?

I use upcycled fabrics when possible.  New fabrics are generally 100% cotton, or linen and cotton blend.  Some are organic fiber.  I purchase from online stores (Hawthorne Threads and Pink Chalk Fabrics are favorites), and local shops.  For felt (doll hair, owl eyes), I use wool or wool felt blend which I buy online.  I love the process of picking fabrics and discovering the personalities of these little critters as I create them.

What are your stuffed friends stuffed with?

Nearly all of my goods are stuffed with wool from local farms.  I purchase raw wool, which I clean at home, using hot water, dish soap, and wool combs.  For larger pillows, I use pillow forms made with PLA, a corn fiber.  Wool-stuffed goods are washable, with cold water on delicate wash, but must be air dried.  I can use polyester fill if you prefer.  It does wash more easily and is non-allergic.  I prefer to use wool because it is a local fiber, readily available.

Where are your patterns from?

Many of my patterns are from other designers, including Retro Mama.  Some of the designs are my own.  I do have permission from the designers to sell crafts using their patterns.

Can you create custom work?

Yes, absolutely.  I love creating owls and dolls from something a child wore and loved but has outgrown, or a favorite blanket that has been retired.  I do not charge extra for custom work, since all of my items are individually made.

Sharon

Small Owls, Back, in a Variety of Materials