Lydia is an artist working with print and textiles based in Suffolk, with a passion for dressmaking on the side. While her work and dressmaking do sometimes coincide, never more so than at Goodwood Revival, where she hosts fabric printing workshops, dressed up in one of her own vintage inspired creations.
“The more you practice, the easier it gets.”
How did you first learn to sew?
With my mum as a child - despite her very demanding job with a lot of travel, we made a wardrobe of outfits for my teddies and costumes for school plays. When we moved to Suffolk I found work selling a local curtain company's remnants and fell in love with fabric. From there I discovered block printing & linocut, making a living selling the fabrics I printed and made into everything - except clothes because I found most beginners patterns off putting. In 2018 I found my fantastic sewing teacher, Amanda Bowden, taught project-led classes at her Felixstowe Sewing School. I rocked up with an original 1950s pattern, jumping in the deep end, but very much with her coaching and guidance to learn as I went.
What advice would you give to people thinking about making their own clothes?
I don't think you can beat an in person class when starting out. At the very beginning none of us know what we don't know - be it how patterns are set out, different types of fabric, even how to use the settings on your sewing machine. You also get to know other sewing people who will be great links to other know how and resources.
What do you love most about sewing?
I love having an idea for something and thinking "I could make that", and what I create is unique to me. It's transformative to wear garments that fit you properly and show off your style. If I've also printed the fabric I've sewn into a garment then I feel extra proud.
What sewing skill did you find the hardest to master?
Sleeves seem to be my nemesis, usually when there is a vent. I can't say how many times I've put them in backwards, or two the same and then ended up putting the sleeves in the wrong way round etc.. I need to apply that patience and persistence I mentioned!
Is there a garment you've made more than once?
Too many to mention them all.. Once I've adjusted the fit on a pattern and it works for me they are the most satisfying to reproduce. Recently I've made a run of Cha'Coud Valentine Blouses, 3 pairs of Burda 6573 trousers and Hovea Quilted Jacket as they've turned out to be wardrobe staples
What garment you've made is the most memorable to you?
I've been fortunate enough to 'inherit' lots of fabric from people who have had a keen sewist in the family who has passed away and left their stash. They've wanted it to go to a good home so I try to honour that. One particularly special one was a stunning emerald green silk satin I made into an evening dress for very special event where my mother was an honoured guest in Portugal. I was so scared of cutting into it but it sewed like a dream! And it feels amazing to wear.
Where do you usually sew?
I have a posh shed at the bottom of my garden which is both my workroom for printing and making as well as dressmaking. My husband altered an old computer table so my machine can sit flish with the worktop - like an industrial machine. So handy. I also take my sewing machine on holiday with me if we're driving and I can make time to use it. I'd love to find a mini one for this purpose.
What keeps you inspired to keep making?
And finally, what are you planning to make next?
I need to focus on what I'm making for Goodwood Revival! I've already cut out a Nehru-collared waistcoat for my husband in a sparkly embroidered fabric I found in Sri Lanka which will be fabulous. Then I really want to find a purpose for the Liberty "Follow the Light" Silk that was a birthday present last year.. It's so eye catching I just need to make an occasion befitting its glamour.
You can follow Lydia on Instagram @lovely_._lydia or an in person workshop at The Goodwood Revival on Sunday 20th September.
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