We're so excited to introduce you to Sahita, a full-time graduate student and part-time gather here craft associate! Sahita joined our team in the spring of 2022 and her love for sewing and crochet knows no limits! If you see Sahita (she's not on social media so you'll have to make in-person connections!) in the shop take a minute to share what you're making or ask what she's currently making!
When did you start making things?
I have always loved to tinker around and make things but I became serious about learning the skills in my twenties. I took my first crochet class in 2014 and I was consistent with the craft until I decided to purchase a sewing machine on a whim in 2016. That was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I’ve not stopped making clothes since then. My crochet hooks have been calling my name, but the sound of my sewing machine drowns that out most days.
What's your favorite thing to make?
I cannot choose so here are my top 3:
- Wide-leg culottes are at the top - I just love the drama of it all, “is it a skirt or is it pants?”, it can be structured or flowy, it’s comfy, it looks great with everything.
- The Kalle Shirt/Dress by Closet Core Pattern is such a delicious pattern to sew.
- Anything that wraps around the body…wrap skirt, wrap top, wrap dress, gimme all of it!
What is the thing you have enjoyed the most about joining the gather here team?
Being surrounded by all the creativity and art in the store inspires and motivates me to explore the expansiveness of my own creativity. Chatting with customers or coworkers about their creative process is really fun. I love seeing the excitement in people’s eyes when they share details about their projects. I am always learning a new skill or a fun tidbit about fiber arts from those chats. I had never thought of making a quilt until I started seeing customers’ beautiful creations come to life on the longarm. I’m working on my first quilt now!
Also, I love the fabric wall! It really makes my day!
What's your favorite tool?
The seam ripper! The tool has revolutionized the way I think about “mistakes” in sewing and in life.
What do you want to learn to make?
I want to learn how to knit for real! I’ve taken the Knitting Basics class and I have now gotten over my silly fear of working with 2 needles... Next step is to actually sit and practice. I would love to knit a sweater one day.
What do you do when you aren't making things?
I’m either dancing, looking at pretty things in a museum or I’m at school. Oh, the exciting life of a grad student!
What has been a source of joy during the pandemic?
The ability to keep creating and making things and the ability to find beauty in daily moments. Turning a flat, lifeless piece of fabric into something with body, shape, and volume that is functional, wearable, or just pretty to look at takes my breath away every time!
“Créer, c’est vivre deux fois.” Albert Camus (To create is to live life twice)