Like many in this country, the results of the 2016 election were depressing. In the aftermath, I was too upset to continue visiting my normal internet haunts. Instead, I found myself turning to an unlikely source of comfort: sewing blogs.
It probably shouldn’t surprise anyone all that much. After all, creative pursuits have always put me in a good mood. But sewing–or at least blogs about it–turned out to be a particularly good refuge. Unlike blogs about art or writing or music, all of which seemed seized with the same dread I was feeling and needed to escape, sewing blogs are almost always apolitical. Their authors are usually incredibly earnest women who really love making things and would really rather not discuss something as unpleasant as politics. They were exactly what I needed.
One of my favorites is Gretchen Hirsch. Her retro style and approachability combined with her clear deep knowledge and love of construction I find irresistible. Hers is one of my favorite Instagram feeds. So imagine my delight when it turned out that two of her books were waiting for me under the tree! I’ve spent much of the day reading and flipping through them, imagining the things I will make, the amazing vintage-style clothes I will be able to wear!
Don’t worry–I’m not announcing that, oh, wait, this is really going to be a sewing blog. I’m still first and foremost a writer. Rather my point is a.) merry Christmas and b.) sometimes the strangest things can set us off in productive directions. Who would have thought that the election of a… well, you know would have led me to this particular pursuit. Life is funny.
Happy holidays.
inga gardner 