Because of You, My Dreams Are Coming True

A Two-Year Anniversary Letter from Positively Sewing

It started with a needle and thread. Then a dream began to form.

Not just a dream about sewing — but a dream about what sewing could do for our community. A skill buried beneath the convenience of mass production, of fast fashion, of buying new and throwing away the old. I believe in something different. In creating from what is available around you. In keeping fabric and supplies out of landfills. In repurposing, upcycling, recreating. Sewing is an artistic outlet, a creative and sustainable skill that has stood the test of time. It brings pride and joy in each completed project — from trial and errors, experiments and disasters, to masterpieces and the fun little things that make our everyday lives better. Our community deserves to have it back.

Two years ago I set up my first sewing machines in a borrowed space and began teaching. I didn't have a studio. I didn't need one. The community opened its doors to

me. Franny of Creative Hub opened her little coffee shop in Anacortes and hosted our very first class. Thank you, Franny. And Barb — a pillar of support from the very beginning, always there to lend a hand. Dozens of community members have dropped off fabric, machines, notions, and supplies without being asked twice — because of them, every youth course includes materials — everything students need is provided, no extra cost to families. My family, my friends, the people who believed before there was anything to believe in. And every single person who shared our classes with a neighbor, a coworker, a fellow parent — you are the reason we grew.

While all of this was happening I was also in school. I completed my AA degree with honors at Skagit Valley College, along with a Micro Certificate in Entrepreneurship — made possible by the Soroptimist chapters of Oak Harbor and Burlington, whose scholarships carried me through. You invested in me so I could keep investing in this community.

In year one, 20 families found us. In year two, 65. Nearly 90 students have sat down at a sewing machine in spaces this community has generously hosted. Children discovering what their hands can make. Adults learning for the first time or picking up techniques they have always wanted. Students who came with siblings, with friends, who came back, who are still here. And now new school distrits and areas are expressing interest in bringing our programs to their communities. What started in one borrowed space is growing across the Valley and into other counties.

Because of you, my dreams are coming true. As part of our two year anniversary celebration, special offers are coming for returning families, new youth students, and new adult students. Keep an eye on your email and our class pages for details.

Here's to year three.

With so much appreciation,

Ms. Stephanie Philbrick

Founder of Positively Sewing