I fell in love with the creative art of sewing at a young age. Dressing dolls and myself in something unique and different from the norm, often using scraps from my mum’s craft basket or upcycling clothes from second-hand stores, brought me so much joy.

 

As an adult, it's hard to find a moment when my brain isn’t planning, designing, or creating something. I learned to sew through my Waldorf education, spending lunchtimes in the sewing room, where I loved the social aspect—chatting about what others were making. Sewing with friends has always been important to me; I’ve taught them over the years, sharing a mutual love for fabrics, buttons, and patterns.

 

I trained as a primary teacher because of my varied art and craft skills, but my true goal was always to become a sewing teacher. I achieved that when the right opportunity came along—teaching in the very same sewing room where I had learned my craft. I held that position for six years and loved helping students bring their design ideas to life.

 

I’ve now created Jadeen Sewing Studio, a place for myself and others to create, connect, and share my passion and joy for sewing. This dream space is situated at my home in Te Awanga, overlooking vineyards and bird of paradise plants in the courtyard. I’m primarily a sewing teacher, yet my real passion is zero-waste pattern making, which I pursue whenever I have a spare moment.​

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Jade xx