Seven Great Reasons to SWAP

Well, if I wait any longer for the right words to start my blog, I'll be old and grey. Not that I'm ageist, mind. I thought I'd like to use the space to track some of my creative endeavors, though they seem to be mostly in my head at the moment.

I've signed up to do the 2009 SWAP (Sewing With A Plan) going on over at the Stitcher's Guild Sewing Forum. Thought it might provide some motivation and give me a focus for my sewing.

• I need a new wardrobe desperately. After losing 40 lbs. (with quite a bit more to go) everything in my closet is too loose. Now that might not sound like a problem, but when the waistband is a bit snug, I am much more conscious of my eating habits. Loose clothes are too comfortable, and (I'm convinced) have contributed to the plateau I can't seem to move off of.
• The concept is about sewing things that can actually be worn together, and not just orphan pieces that get made because the fabric is pretty or purchased because its on sale and in my size. This versatility should increase the usage of each piece, and in turn, aligns with my goal of leaving a smaller footprint on the earth.
• While our office is business casual (which seems to have deteriorated to business sloppy), I think it benefits me to dress a bit better. As a short, older, fatter woman, I am aware how "appearance" can work against me. Although discrimination is illegal, in times of economic distress, it pays to use every available asset to ensure I keep my job. And I know that how I dress can influence people's opinions. That's reality!
• I have more than enough fabric in my stash to sew clothes for the rest of my life - it's time I started using it up.
• I've traditionally worn way too much black thinking it would minimize my fat profile. Yeah, right! Now I am ready for more color, more seasonably suitable color in my wardrobe. And some new basics to replace the black - like deep chocolate brown.
• I am short (under 5 feet), and still rather heavy. I have a more-or-less "normal" back length - which means a lot of petite tops/dress don't fit as they sit uncomfortable above my waist. Yet my bottom half is missing great gobs of inches - my high hip is practically at my waist line. And due to a spinal anomoly, one leg is 2" or so shorter than the other (though my body has compensated and its not too obvious.) Sewing is the best option for clothes to fit.
• I have the talent. I have the equipment. I may lack a bit in the time department, but if I prioritized differently, I could have the time.

So these are the major motivating factors for joining the SWAP. One jacket, 6 tops and 4 bottoms. Six months to plan and sew. Oh the possibilities are endless......