I’m pretty excited that Project Runway is back on the air. It was too long of a break between seasons. And I loved the All-Stars episode. (Spoiler) I’m glad that Daniel won. I thought he should have won season 2 instead of Chloe Dao. Don’t get me wrong, I loved Chloe’s designs (and I’ve even seen her around Houston a few times) but Daniel was amazing. And way to be a gracious loser, Korto. Pffttt… Oh, and can I just say this about the new season? Thank you, judges for getting rid of the crazy one on the first show. Normally they keep the crazy around for a few episodes (remember the woman who spit on her fabric to mark it, or the biker chic who only did leather?).

Speaking of Project Runway, there was an article in the Washington Post a few weeks ago that talked about sewing’s surge in popularity. Inspired by shows like Project Runway and sites such as Etsy, lots of younger women are starting to sew. Plus it can be an eco-friendly, economical way to go, which is great in this current economy. And I can say that I’ve witnessed this many, many times, especially with other moms. You might like a certain look for your kids (a Matilda Jane knot dress, or an Etsy custom) but don’t want to spend $50 on one item, so you pull out grandma’s sewing machine and DIY.

And I’m continually amazed at the resources for sewing and patterns. From sites like Burda Style to You Can Make This. I learned to sew on standard Simplicty/Butterick/McCall’s patterns, so full color, step by step instructions with pics has got me spoiled. I learned to sew as a kid (in elementary school with my mom/grandma and then in 7th grade Home Ec) but didn’t really start to sew for myself until after I got married and wanted to make throw pillows and curtains. Fashion forward patterns and designs just weren’t out there 10 years ago. At least not where I lived. And honestly, I think chains like Hancock Fabrics and Jo-Ann’s need to step it up. Maybe your local stores have a great selection of fabrics, but mine don’t. And the only quilt shops in our suburb carry 95% traditional quilting fabrics and just a small selection of modern designs. I hate always shopping online for fabric.

The article I linked to features local sewing lounge, Sew Crafty. I’ve driven by there a few times but have never gone in. I need to support more local craft stores so they can grow and thrive and open branch locations out here in Suburbia. Plus, I need to meet other crafty people. You know, I don’t have any “in real life” friends (meaning, not online only) who are crafters (not counting my mom). I need to find my people.