We love showing off the completed projects of our creative patrons, today we are taking a look at a new addition to our edge space, the beautiful tiered dress created by Poonlee O.
We asked Poon some questions about her project and the inspiration behind creating a dress she wanted to be displayed within the space. She stated this was the FIRST time she made something all by herself and was very proud and excited to pop it on display!
How did you develop the project and the idea behind the tiered dress?
I have 3 young adult daughters and I wanted them to recycle their clothes and be more sustainable. So I decided to learn how to sew and modify/reinvent their clothes.
The induction lesson was intimidating for me as most of them (the other attendees) have sewed before. I never touched a sewing machine before and I could not finish my tote bag during the induction course. After the lesson, I know how to book the sewing machines but definitely not how to use them!
I was really glad when Jimmy was available weekly at The Edge as a Open lab staff member. It is fantastic to have the support and really encouraged me to take up sewing seriously.
What inspired you to choose this particular design for your project? What inspires you?
I started off my sewing journey by cutting my girls' skirts even shorter! My daughters were not too impressed with my sewing skills then as I was only a novice! The lines are a little crooked.
Jimmy is the most patient person, giving me tips and advice. Then I met Helen one Wednesday and she wore a beautiful tiered dress that she made and that inspired me! I was encouraged to do it and Viola! I took the big step!
What do you like the most about/sewing within the space?
The ease of booking the machines and accessibility to knowledgeable and patient instructors.
What new skills have you learned since starting this project?
I thought I was quite analytical as I had previously worked in the finance industry handling figures. Sewing is totally different, it encourages me to think 3 dimensional. I think my left and right brain cells are being challenged. I believe I became more creative!
Can you share any challenges you faced while working on this project and any tips or tricks you learned?
I really enjoyed the process of making the dress. The various people I met in the sessions (open lab), and the slowly but surely progressive development of the dress were so satisfying. Learning to mend and adjust clothes really enhanced my sewing skills.
What are your future sewing projects after completing this dress?
I am doing a food warmer next time! Brisbane weather is ideal for potluck picnics where each person brings a dish. This warmer will allow food to be transported in a pretty bag where you can plate the dish. No plastics are needed and you can show off your food nicely!
How do you see the intersection of fashion and art in your work?
I must confess I'm not very creative. In my past working life, I usually only frequented one dress shop and the lady would dress me in my office or casual gear. I'm starting to be more conscious of fashion and art in Australia because there is so much creativity here.
If you could collaborate with any fashion designer or artist, who would it be and why?
Unfortunately, I don't follow any fashion designer. I have retired and maybe I should start following some designers and dress my girls up!
Poon also stated that she loves attending the open lab sessions and benefits from them for various reasons, not just for sewing.
Poonlee standing next to her finished sewing project.
Sewing Drop-In at Open Lab
Drop by Open lab on the third Wednesday of each month from 2.30 - 7.30 pm for Threads at The Edge and utilise the expertise of our specialist fashion facilitator, Jim Eng. A great chance to extend your skillset after undertaking our sewing induction, you can get support with the sewing machines, pattern making and general fashion fabrication.
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