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10 Questions with Shirley Adams

Shirley Adams loves sewing.  She is the most enthusiastic sewing advocate I have ever met. 

"I started sewing as a preschooler.  My family was in newspapers, and when I graduated from college, my mother was shocked that I didn't go into journalism, but all I wanted to do was sew."

Shirley has been a college professor (15 years), on television (15 years) and a pattern maker (15 years).  She's mentioned retirement, but as she says, "what else would I do?"  Her current passion is pin weaving, and she's exhibiting pieces in art shows, as well as incorporating them into her clothing designs.

If you have a chance to attend one of her classes or lectures, don't wait, sign up as soon as you can.  She's a dynamic, enthusiastic speaker, very knowledgeable, and you're sure to come away with some unique ideas to add to your sewing.

1) When did you start sewing?  As a preschooler.

2) What was your favorite thing that you've sewn? Jackets-everything is built around jackets.  They are the entrée.

3) Have you ever given up on something you were sewing?  Never.  I can't admit defeat.  It might not be the same as it started but it's always finished.

4) How many sewing machines do you own?  Four sergers, six sewing machines.

5) What is your biggest pet peeve with fashion sewing?  I really don't have any; I'm very open to other's ideas.

6) What is your favorite cloth to work with?  Wool crepe, it's very forgiving, always looks good, and wears like iron.

7) Is there any type of clothing you particularly like to make?  Jackets, classic, not trendy.

8)  What are you working on now?  I'm writing a couple of patterns.  I let myself sew, I make myself write patterns.

9) What is the one thing that would improve a wardrobe the most?  Good fit, and coordination of pieces.  I never wear dresses, always jackets and skirts.

10) Make up the question you want to be asked, and give the answer.  I'm not waiting for anything to be asked; I've been asked everything there is to be asked.

On the last one, she meant in her life, not by me.