Alabama Chanin: A Cottage Industry Success Story

Great idea for sustainable business that helps the local economy too!

This is awsome! So impressed!

Wow, what cool work. I love it!

Wow! Beautifully done!

Lovely designs! Lovely concept!

I love it! Very awesome!

This book will go on the list, along with her other two, of books I want to buy.

Love her work and ethic!

great idea, love it.

It is a lovely style, and also very interesting business model!

I love her work and philosophy. She's an inspiration to us all!

Beautiful craftmenship! And how great to help out the local economy too. Perfect!

Very inspiring! Love it on every level :)

Very inspiring and lovely handwork!!

Great idea to help your local economy and wow...your work is unique and beautiful!!

i had my pottery at a show in Birmingham, Alabama and Natalie had her line there also....She was such a joy to meet and talk with...and her products are truly one of a kind REMARKABLE! I gave her a bird I had made and she wrote me the nicest note that my little bird now sits in her kitchen window...She's an inspiration to all WOMEN....thanks for such an inspiring video...

My mom and I both got The Alabama Stitch Book she put out a few years ago - it is so inspiring and fun! I have since tried my hand at creating wardrobe pieces by up-cycling - not nearly as beautiful as hers, but still rewarding! Love, love, love her and ow love her even more after this story!

What a fantastic story! Beautiful work and inspiring business model. I love how our artistic visions, that often seem to come out of nowhere, can change the world with the right follow through.

I have been a huge fan of Natalie and her work for many many years! She is a constant source of inspiration for me as an artist and entrepreneur, and I hope to build my business as thoughtfully and responsibly as she has built hers. Thank you Natalie for being such a powerful example!

amazing and inspiring

I love this! Coming from the Rust Belt known as northwest Indiana, bring it back home!

Great story and beautiful designs.

Beautiful!! What an interesting Etsy blog!! Who knew this was going on, her web site is gorgeous!!

Great story, beautiful work!

Beautiful story, beautiful work! And thanks, Etsy, for sharing.

Wow! I'm from a little town outside Florence! I love this story!

I remember when she hosted a virtual lab demonstration of her techniques. She actually got me into hand sewing more than machine sewing. My favorite was when she showed how to oil thread with good thoughts of love flowing into fingers onto thread.

I've long admired this clothing and only wish I could afford it. Beautiful work indeed.

Beautiful clothing with heart - wonderful to see skills like these people have being put to good use.

This is great!

Inspiring vision!

love this! gorgeous clothing!

Beautiful!!!

Gorgeous designs!!!

Love this concept!

Love Alabama Chanin & all the good that it stands for! Best wishes always for Natalie!

love the work!!!

Great work!

Didn't this used to be the 'the Alabama Project'?

Hand sewing is such a pleasure. Much more relaxing than machine sewing. This project looks very complicated, though.

I saw a lecture given by Natalie Chanin and her story was fascinating and inspiring, great combination of fashion, art, sustainability, and helping people

oh wait a minute.... I meant 'Project Alabama'.

Beautiful work, and an inspiring business model. I appreciate the vision and courage this takes.

love it! congrats on the success of your business.

Natalie Chanin - my hero.

Beautiful product, beautiful commitment.

I really like the story and the social responsibility of Natalie's company.

What a lovely film. I've admired Natalie and her work since I learned about her and I love the looks of satisfaction on the faces and in the voices of the women who sew her clothing. It's interesting that while sewing machines were originally seen as liberating, the return to hand sewing is bringing its own kind of satisfaction.

Yes! Yes! Yes!

Why can't anyone outside of the US win Etsy's prizes? are there some kind of international laws forbidding cross-border competitions or are you too stingy to pay the postage? Just wonderin'...

Sounds wonderful.. we need that in our small town but business are too worried about the bottom line and the "city councillors" cant agree on what day it is so they get in the way of every good business venture. - Best wishes to the American winner! -AB

This is so inspiring! The video is pitch-perfect. I've been oogling her books for awhile and thank you for this amazing opportunity.

I love it! Very inspiring. Thanks for a great giveaway!

I've been following her since the beginning, and I've always been inspired to start something like she does in my home state of Montana. I adore way of working she has created!

I found out about Natalie Chanin by asking the guitarist Joe Satriani about his hat which was made by her first business Project Alabama. I promptly bought her first book and love her concept of "loving the thread". I have yet to make one of her awesome tank tops but am saving up my son's old t-shirts to go for it one day soon. She's an inspiration!

Lovely designs!

Amazing!

It just goes to show that with inspiration, dedication, talent and courage we can achieve almost anything, I have always believed that and I am even more convinced that this sort of enterprise will help us weather the current economic meltdown. Its great for communities, local tradespeople and buyers. I`m from the UK so not elligable for the draw - but though I would comment anyway!

How do I find the books that she has written? I love her concept. It mirrors what Etsy is all about. creation and bringing it home.

Kudos to Alabama for providing jobs for these skillful people. Wonderful product and wonderful work ethic. As a once upon a time fashion designer in Chicago all of the designs were sent to the south for sewing. I couldn't believe shipping all the fabrics and finished products back and forth from the north to the south and back again could keep cost down, but it did. Now, of course, these clothes are made overseas and the textile industry in the south is almost non-existent.

I am inspired by the intentionality of using local artists and tradespeople, while paying living wages and providing opportunities in an area of high unemployment. A great reminder of the importance of building up the people and community around.

What a beautiful homegrown cmpany (& start up story) that produces such lovingly designed pieces of clothing. Completely inspiring!

Incredible design! would love to see more work!

Beautiful clothing and a wonderful thing that they are handmade here in Alabama. I always wanted to sew for her

great story!

Congrats on the Book!!! Your work is beautiful and I'm so glad to hear about a clothing line made here in the USA! Blessing and Best Wishes for your continuing success! Lili D :)

Love Natalie's work, and have her other books - would love to own a true Alabama Chanin piece one day!

Thanks fro the inspiring story..

I've had my eye on that book for a while. Great story!

Made me cry. Handwork has been so diminished, denigrated, and dismissed in modern culture, and I think it so essential to our well-being, both economically and spiritually. Was it Caroline Casey who talked about the "resurrection of community spirit through shared traditions?" Such a lovely, deep story and so inspiring. The heart of handmade.

I've always said it is so hard to compete with the Walmarts of the world. She is a rock star in so many ways! Her apparel is beautiful and the jobs she has created! Made in America..good for you when our nation is struggling so.

Love the value of a handmade piece AND the development aspect of the company. Really something I can support!!

handicraft inspiration she is a phenom:

So inspirational!

Inspiring! Thank you.

Everything is just so right on! the fabrics, the colors, the styling, the fit. YOU GO GIRL!

Natalie Chanin never ceases to inspire me!

Love.

Beyond inspired! A wonderful friend turned me onto Alabama Chanin a few months ago and I am hooked.

I own all of her books and have made two of her skirts. I just ordered the cape kit and I'm so excited to start. I LOVE NATALIE! Her work is awesome and inspiring. I only wish I could go to Alabama and take one of her workshops. I'm in awe of her!!!!

Great story- so inspiring! The spirit of handmade:)

what a hope for women worker's and artisans across the world!

Beautiful video and inspiring story. So glad she "came home" to employ her neighbors and friends. A business model we can all learn from!

Love Natalie and pretty much everything that she produces! Beautiful video of her and the studio.

That is incredible. Our country needs more Alabama Chanin's! Kudo's!

An inspiration and beautiful wearable clothes. I really admire your work ethic and determination in making this dream a working success!

So much low-quality clothing is out there because of the need for instant gratification, the "I want it fast, I want it cheap" attitude. There is something satisfying and fulfilling about something that was made with skill and love, not to mention something that also empowers and sustains a community. This inspiring story is proof that people succeed as a group, as a community. No machine can ever replicate the beauty coming from creating with one's hands and one's heart.

This is what I'm setting out to do with my own business. When it grows to the point that I can't handle the orders myself, I'm going to employ local and regional seamstresses. I will definitely look to her business model for inspiration.

I believe in everything she has done for the community and her company. She is a true inspiration!

Beautiful designs, very inspiring!

Positively wonderful!! I'm actually a little jealous I don't live close enough to be part of this wonderful group of people. Hand Stitchers are Rad :)

Soooo wish we were allowed to enter, a beautiful project producing a beautiful product! But - we're in the UK! :(

love it!

I love it! Fantastic project. Congratulations!!

I bought the first two books and they sent me off on a hand-sewing journey that is nowhere finished yet. I am wearing right now the first corset top I made and there is always an Alabama Chanin project in progress at my house. There isn't anything I don't like about the company - the care exhibited in a garment and an industry from the field to the finished product and beyond is truly visionary. I have the third book but still wanted to comment on this as I continue to be inspired by Natalie Chanin almost daily.

Very inspiring!

This is so encouraging to hear especially in the state of our economy. Thank you for stepping up and taking others with you!

I simply adore all things Alabama Chanin and must confess to an irrational addition to the website as well. The fact that anyone has the ability, through these beautiful books and open sourcing, to duplicate Natalie's work is truly inspiring!

What an inspiring story of how to scale up your business and still remain true to the handcrafted aspects and support a local economy. Thank you for sharing this!

Absolutely beautiful.

Oooo...I just start to cry because that kind of things still exist...I am happy because of that. Every piece is so gorgeous.

so pretty! the detail work is wonderful!

Congrats!

Fantastic idea - and the dress is stunning!!

*Love* the whole concept behind this designer's work! I have a friend with a small clothing line based out of Western MA - I am definitely going to forward this to her :)

great little clip! i've been a fan since "Project Alabama"... (i even got a reply when i sent my resume years ago...) LOVE the concept. congrats!

Beautiful! I love seeing all those hands sewing.

The detail in these clothes is amazing! And I love the style-I want to make these clothes!

Thanks so much for sharing this. I just spent a long time on the website and reading through the blog....how wonderful and beautiful.

Great stuff!

Love her work! Definitely want to pick up a copy of the new book soon!

I love the look, just beautiful. What a great story, too.

I am reminded of home and times past. Needle and thread is an integral part of my life, be it leather, fabric, past, present or future. Thank you.

beautiful! thank you for spreading the word.

I'm on square 14 of my Alabama Chanin DIY quilt. Working on this quilt has been a joy. To sit down and create something that I know will be around for possibly generations is thrilling. The directions in her book are clear and concise, and explain things so that even the most intricate detail is doable. My mind is brimming with all the projects I'm going to do. How could you NOT want to do more, especially with all the beautiful examples that Natalie has in her book.

Love your story! You're so creative!

I have a Chanin inspired skirt sitting right on the desk next to me as I type. Many peaceful hours of stitching went in to that skirt and I love it.

Having grown up in Alabama, I was thrilled Alabama Chanin became the huge success that it has ~ so inspiring for her courage to launch this project, for paying women a living wage, and for the beautiful work coming from these women. Great story!

Yeah Natalie! You have done so much for the Alabama community! Thank you for making beautiful work!

Natalie Chanin is such a beautiful and creative woman. I love this short film- especially the fact that it includes some of the amazing seamstresses that make up Alabama Chanin.

Such an inspired business and life.

the clothes - love at first sight! the business - endless love!

So amazing it just made my heart feel so warm and good. I guess it's because I'm from the South and there are so many people getting back to their beginnings but bringing something new and exciting with them. The designs are so beautiful and it's something special about each and every piece. It's hand sewn . Great video I wish I could sew!

Wow wow wow. Just visited her website, it's been a while since I last saw it. Such beautiful clothing. Inspiring to see a success story like this.

Brilliant idea! Great way to bring a community together and promote local growth. Truly inspirational.

I have everyone of her books. I have to say that when I am reading them it is like a delicious meal. I live in NYC and the economy has been really desperate. It would be wonderful to start something here so that what we buy here we make here. I will continue to make the clothes that you have so graciously provided the patterns for in your books. They are beautiful! keep up the great work.

Wow! The detail is amazing. As someone who hand-sews time consuming items (art dolls), I can only imagine the hours of labor that must go into those intricate designs! Amazing!

amazing!

fabulous story, thanks for sharing!

This is awesome. Being from the South I love to read stories that show who we really are. Not hicks that drink beer, shoot guns, and go "muddin"; but a people who have a true heart for helping others. Add to that the quality and beauty of these designs and this makes me one proud Southerner.

I've got one of her older books and I've loved it! Please count me in for a chance at this one.

This is such a beautiful story! We need more companies like this in the US to reward real, valuable skills with living wages.

Love it!! Congrats!!

I attended a fantastic weekend led by Natalie at her workshop a few years ago. It changed my life. We were immersed in a genuinely southern experience and ended the weekend with a garment we sewed ourselves. Natalie was generous with her time and advice which was absolutely priceless. If you get a chance to go, I would highly recommend it.

This is a truly remarkable story. I have watched this "project" grow and grow into the flowering enterprise it has become. Congrats to everyone involved.

I read one of her books and absolutely love this look. Also, its a tradition that continues and enpowers women.

So beautiful and inspiring. I first saw Natalie's work in person a year ago and will be lucky enough to see and hopefully purchase some of this beautiful clothing at the upcoming Doo Nanny Festival, which I will be participating in. I recently saw her new book in a book store and have been dreaming over it for a week now. As a teenage I used to sew a lot of my clothing by hand, and am looking to begin again. This is such a beautiful and mindful art form- so meditative. Thank you, etsy- for featuring the amazing and hard work of Alabama Chanin.

Wonderful story, exceptionally talented women and beautiful clothing. Such an inspirational story. Thank you!

Wow, she is very inspiring!

great story, great designs, so unique. love it.

Beautiful designs and such a gift fr everyone involved!

sewing is almost a lost art. Love this story!

I have one of her books. I love Natalie's style and her efforts to empower the woman of her community. I'd love to learn more.

OH Alabama...how i love thee :)

The designs are beautiful and have a lovely attitude about them.

I have Ms. Chanin's first two books and am constantly learning something new and inspirational. Waiting to see what new things she has to share with all of us to further stir our imaginations.

Beautiful story. I think all those in the clothing industry have something to learn from this.

That is an amazing story of success and perseverence. I have loved Alabama Chanin designs since I found them a year ago. I just wish that I could actually afford something. . . they are very high end priced. Now I really understand why! Getting this kit would be wonderful!

Such a beautiful story! Lovely designs and very inspirational!

I believe I checked out Natalie's book from the library several years ago. I was intrigued by her designs and her business model, but have not kept up with her. I'm pleased to see this feature, both because it's a reconnection to something I lost track of, and because it's just so dang cool.

I loved project Alabama when it was around. It felt like a dream company of sort. I want to see her back on the runway and supporting local industry. I am glad she is still creating beautiful work.

I've been wanting to sew again for a while now. This would be a great project for me to "start off on the right foot" with.

I love her stuff! I read about her in Betz White's Sewing Green book and loved the idea behind her start! I'm glad you guys shared this. Great video!

What intricate, lovely & elegant fashion! Very inspiring story! xo

Incredibly inspiring story and a real, raw look into the diverse background of America and its local people.

Lovely idea, lovely women, lovely clothes! :D

Wonderful concept and designs! I love this! I wish more companies would do this. I'm trying to give back to the community as much as possible by donating through my jewelry sales and by using fair trade components that help women and their families earn better living for their families.

Love love LOVE her work!

Chanin is so admirable, talented, brilliant! This is so exciting!

Great story and very inspiring! Love the clothing.

Oh, I adore Natalie's designs! How I'd love to learn to this kind of work. She inspires me!

I love the simplicity and responsibility of Natalie's designs. Beautiful, just beautiful.

Such an inspiration ..the film touched my heart!

This is magical. I lived in Auburn, AL for 12 years and had no idea about this. Thanks so much for sharing! It was refreshing. <3 Val

I love this woman and her work! Spent a happy hour at the Textile Museum in DC studying one of her jackets. I was totally stumped as to one of the techniques, and would have given anything to touch it! The book would, I'm sure, be fascinating.

Have all of Natalie's terrific books. The only artist & fashion person I have ever followed wit such interest & support. For her product which is personal, creatively exciting, & all sewn w/ loving care. Her business a testament to "it can be done" -- by hand, with local employees, with eco conscious products, Hooray Alabama Chanin!!

A truly heartfelt interview. I first picked up a needle and thread while in junior high school. I joined the cheerleader squad and we all were required to make our own uniforms. A wonderful neighbor took me under her wing and together we made the uniform from scratch. I remember her telling me I was born to hold a needle as sewing just came so naturally for me. Since then I haven't stopped - i not only sew clothing for my grandchildren but also love to do needlepoint, crochet and quilting. My love of sewing and creating something from nothing inspired me to share that love with others. It is up to each of us to take someone new to sewing under our wings and help them soar to new heights like my neighbor did for me.

It's beautiful to see someone make decisions based on their heart and see that success can be the result. Love her story.

This is also a dream of mine. I am Native American and want to start a cottage industry with other Native women in my area...very inspiring.

As a sister Alabamian, I'm so glad to see Natalie Chanin getting some Etsy love! :)

I've been a huge fan of Alabama Chanin since I read about it in Belle Armoire magazine. I love the design and detail of these gorgeous hand sewn garments! And the fact that they're sewn by local artisans is great. It's encouraging to see talented, experienced seamstresses working after losing their company jobs. A big thank you to Natalie Chanin for her vision and hard work! I hope her book sells well and that it brings more people to appreciate this beautiful line of clothing.

Discovered Alabama Chanin today through this blog and love what they are about. I am a fashion design student in Mississippi and I love making anything and everything by hand, especially sewing and knitting. Thanks for the great blog post. I am now following them on facebook and twitter to keep up what they are doing.

Beautiful clothing. Beautiful people. Beautiful story.

Natalie Chanin's business model should be emulated by more small businesses.

Beautiful...so wonderfully inspiring!

Such a beautifu story. It reminds me of when I was a little girl and my mom would make me machine sewn beautiful clothing...but when It came to the finishing touches like making button holes, hemming and embellishing, we would go to Grandma's who would do all the finishing work by hand. This video brings back great memories that touches my heart in a very special way.....Thank you!

How incredibly inspiring! My background, before starting my lines of children's apparel was in non-profit education with a focus on helping women with a history of abuse become self-sustaining once again. I have so many hopes that one day my business will be able to make a difference in the lives of other women as well. I'm so glad you featured Natalie and her company! How wonderful to know that there is a sustainable business model that still respects handmade and offers a way to make a fair living wage for all!

Love, love, love her and always have!

I'm definitely interested! Not only do I love to sew, but embroidery as well <3 ~Dana

As an aspiring designer, I've had people tell me to "get big and make money" I'll have to have my designs mass produced, outsourcing the work, using cheap materials, and I always say no. Design integrity and quality over quantity is something so important we've lost sight of. I work for a small, local company making high end leather bags. We're paid well, have safe work environments and take pride in our work. This post is an inspiration and a reminder that hard work and passion still make a difference. Etsy, thanks for featuring this story!

I grew up in the South in a family of stitchers and knitters...even my granddad had a loom for weaving in his basement! This really resonates with me...also as someone who pursued design and ended up in New York. I love that Natalie is bridging the worlds of fashion and craft and making them both richer in the process!

This is AWESOME! Incredibly inspiring. I could see this kind of business model trickling down into many other types of product based businesses. What a perfect post for etsy to get us thinking down the line as we expand our businesses. Thank you!

Long a fan of Ms. Chanin, this short vid conveys, with feeling, the heart and dedication to her craft and the folks that she employs.

I've loved Natalie since her first book. She made me think about design and the sustainability of our goods for this planet, where clothes go once we finish with them, and last but certainly not least, who makes them. I have whole-heartedly embraced her ethic of up-cycling in my own wardrobe and those that I make. She is oh-so-generous to give her methods and designs to those of us out there just starting. what a kind soul she is!

Great story!!!

This is an AWEsome story and I really appreciate the way you "share the love" with fellow seamstresses. This has definitely inspired me and get's me thinking outside the box.

I have followed Natalie's career since the Project Alabama days. One of the admirable qualities that I've seen in her is that she hasn't given up or given in - both of which are reflected in her continued success. She honors our mothers and ourselves by valuing heart, hand and cloth. I am proud of coming from a long line of women who sew and am proud to be part of the community that Natalie promotes.

I worked in the garment manufacturing industry from 1968 to 1986 in the state of Florida. I was 9 years on the sewing floor, and 9 years in management. I watched as it slowly died from overseas outsourcing. We were the second largest employer of women in Marion Co, second only to the school board. It was devastating when we closed our doors. Hooray for anyone who could take her talent and save these folks from poverty and despair. I applaud Natalie and her great works.

i remember reading about her in Vogue many years ago - great work

What a beautiful story and the book sounds great!

I am in awe...and most inspired to continue working on my craft. Thank you.

I grew up in Alabama, and now that I live in California I see how differently the rest of America lives. It is my hope that if my business keeps growing I can look to alabama for sewing help. I would love to give back to a community that needs it so much and a community I endlessly care about.

I love this story! What a wonderful mission. Coming from the NY fashion industry, it was disturbing for me to see the southern factories we used shut down because the samplemaking and production departments were being closed and re-opened in China. I always wondered, "where are these ladies going to find work?" I'd love to see the US garment manufacturing resurrected. In the meantime, cottage industry production is a great way to give it a kickstart. Thanks for sharing this!

It's all about the cottage industry. I hope it's the future of America. It needs to be the future of America.

I live in a very rural area of Oklahoma and I first read about Natalie Chanin a few years ago in Organic magazine. Her strikingly beautiful hair caught my attention first. I was so intrigued how she started a hand sewing business. I knew then that I could do something with my sewing skills even living in a very remote area. Find a lost art that you love and go with it!

Great story and thank you so much for sharing.

Amazing and beautiful clothes made by real people. I am inspired to pick up a needle and thread! thank you.

Huge fan of Alabama Chanin. What an amazing artist!

Great story!!! inspirational.

Such lovely work - I would love to win!

A very inspiring story, and a true burst of sunshine and encouragement at just the right time!

This is so great! I've been a fan of Alabama Chanin for years. Seriously got choked up at the part about how machines can't duplicate handmade! It's so so so good to hear someone else say that out loud:)

I love doing hand sewing. The process is so soothing; there's something about the slower speed and rythm of handsewing that allows for contemplation and care that you just can't get with machine sewing. It's so time intensive that we tend to not really appreciate it in our need to get things done quickly (such a modern problem, now now now; cheap cheap cheap). As much as I love the process it's a rare gift to be able to make a living doing it -kudos to Natalie Chanin and the artists who get to work with her!

I would love this book! Being a unionist for many years, I know how important a living wage is to energizing the US economy. Put that together with beautiful clothing... AMAZING

Beautiful work, beautiful story. Thanks.

Have been a huge fan since Project Alabama, truly one of a kind clothing with such detail and love.

Wow inspiring video... cottage industries were popular here in Ireland also and are still going today a friend of mine actually has started one producing knitwear she has about 30 skilled knitters that knit baby clothes and it gives these people a supplemental income that would not be available to them otherwise. I remember visiting recently foxford woolen mills in county mayo situated in the west of Ireland which is a thriving business today which was originally started in 1891 as a cottage industry basically, by a very strong and innovative nun. Its amazing what you can achieve with a talented workforce which you respect and treat accordingly while keeping strong in the tough times never giving up with a passionately optimistic outlook.

This is what we need more of in this country! What a beautiful testiment to what women can do when they stay true to thier hearts!

I love love love Alabama Chanin! And I loved hearing Natalie Chanin's voice and seeing some faces of ladies happy to be sewing!

My parents are from Alabama, and also my Aunt is from Alambama, she has hand sewn quilts for all her nieces (me included). It makes me feel very special when I look at each embroidered square and all the time and sincere love she has put into it. You have beautiful pieces and the seamtresses truly are the souls of your clothing.

Love to see a home grown, grassroots business THRIVE!

Oh, and my husband is from Jasper, Alabama, so this one hits close to home. Way to go!!!

LOVE Alabama Chanin!

We were in Alabama a couple of months ago, and the cotton that was blown all over the road, was insane. I'm southern boy with a Northern wife...so for me being from the south, I take great pride when somebody does well from the south. We have been stripped of jobs and incomes from all over the country, especially from the south, because of political reasons and cost to operate, we need to recognized those those who hired, buy local, and sell a good product (like the interview), We need to also realize, it can not be click on a mouse and it's on your doorstep a week later. Craftsmanship is become a lost art, do to those that know nothing of hardwork and desire to succeed. Here In North Carolina, we have watch one after another manufacturer plant leave and go overseas , because the cost was to great to make an item, because of labor, government restrictions, taxes, EPA, labor unions, insurance...etc. We need to get "old school"....my family taught me, "you will only get out life, what you willing to put in", so therefore if you are not willing to work for it, risk it your time and money....then take the easy way through life....just don't complain you don't have enough... doesn't work that way. "Government big enough to give you everything you need, is big enough to take everything you have" Keep Rolling...Roll Tide

So inspiring, Im sharring the link on my fb page to spread the word. I also hand sew my quilts. Hand sewing can not be reproduced my machine, Congrats on your success

I've always thought that this is the way to help our economy, putting Americans back to work. We should never have sent our garment work overseas. I love to sew but could never do the beautiful work I saw on that video. More power to her!

What beautiful artwork, clothing. How wonderful that she has helped a community so much. I would love to see this happen in so many more ways. Great work!

A great contribution to her community and a great example to the rest of us.

I love love love the story of Alabama Chanin. I definitely appreciate the desire to raise a community up from poverty using the old Southern tradition of sewing and deeply desire to do the same with my line in the future. Alabama Chanin's business model, as well as clothing line, provide patterns for life that we all could do well to follow.

An inspiring and beautifully told story. Natalie Chanin's designs are so lovely - thank you etsy for introducing me to this talented artist. I started to cry when she said "...there's nothing like a hand sewn piece. You cannot replicate it on a machine. There's a kind of life that comes in sewing by hand..." And how wonderful that this beautifully sewn work is produced by women of all ages!

Oh, that is SO wonderful...wish them all the best. And now, I'm off to her shop! :-)

I love this story!!! I sew, and I know what goes into hand sewing - patience, love, and craftsmanship. These are absolutely beautiful works of art.

I love her work SO much. I have yet to create anything from her books but really should get started. They do always inspire me to try new projects, though.

I own one book, would love another!

Lovely story.

If I even consider being brave enough to follow my dream; I would start/do what you have done. Our country and our economy just might be saved from the brink with cottage industries. Congratulations! And...thank you for being SO inspiring.

Great story! Great woman!

just curious is Alabama Chanin related in any way to Project Alabama?

i received my copy in the mail this morning - i have been reading it all day... love it. i have been a fan for a long time.

Beautiful story and video but damn I just want all the dresses...

What an inspiring story! I admire her vision in having her beautiful designs hand-sewn to provide meaningful employment opportunities. Her employees are very fortunate indeed.

Wow, I wonder if these books would finally break the curse of my inability to understand anything in three dimensions! Even with the best of tutorials, I've never been able to grasp sewing or pattern drafting. It would be a dream come true to learn how to make a garment for myself.

natalie is SO inspiring! she turned me on to organic cotton and slow fashion! would love to win that kit!!

What an inspirational story. I love that she is creating unique and lovely things and empowering people to use their talents and creativity.

I like it! I sew, embroidery and design also. You make wonderful work!

It is so amazing when a person can reveal their soul in what they do!

Just absolutely AWESOME!!! What a great way to bring it back to the community!!! Would love to check her book out!!! :)

It is so amazing when a person can reveal their soul through their work.

This is a tremendous inspiration. Thank you Natalie - our best wishes to you.

so so so inspiring. it gives me the push and confidence i need to pursue my passion in sustainable/slow clothing/fashion. thank you for this video and the giveaway opportunity.

...I am constantly astounded by all the beauty that can be created if we are just allowed to set it free. Alabama Chanin is all about being who you really are and being able to make a living doing something that you love, after all is that not why we are all here on Etsy.

Absolutely stunning designs!!!

The sewing equivalent of the slow cooking movement- so awesome. It helps me imagine a perfect day.

I love love love this! I did some research relating to this in college, and I became so intrigued. Strong rural woman have amazing talents that are often overlooked and/or undervalued by society. This is wonderful! What a fabulous outlet for all those creative souls. Not only that, it provides a much needed source of income in these hard times. Thank you for strengthening your roots Natalie!

I've just started sewing lessons and this is a very inspirational story for me. It'll be nice if this type of industry can be replicated in my own country Singapore, to give elderly people who still want/need to work a chance to do so at their own time and place, rather than at a fast-food chain at minimum wage.

Love her work and would love to win her book, and especially the kit!

well done - inspiring story. I have long admired her work.

Such a beautiful & incredible story in this day & age!! Thank you so much for the inspiration!!! ♥

Funny -- when I think of a company valuing the work of artisan women and selling their handsewn pieces at a price that pays them a dignified wage, I think of a social enterprise working with women in a village in Latin America... It is really inspiring to see this happening here in our country. Also, as the granddaughter of a seamstress and dressmaker I am so happy that these skills are being preserved and passed down!

I learned about Natalie when I came across her first book and was completely entranced! I have all her books and a ton of inspiration stemming from them. I grew up around sewing, knitting and other handcrafts and am lucky enough to be able to use those skills every day in my job and for my own enjoyment. I started hand sewing as soon as I was able to work a needle and was very resistant to learning the machine. After I learned to use a machine I began to neglect my handwork except when necessary. The combination of researching historic sewing for my job and Natalie's amazing books, has rekindled a love of the visible stitch for me. Thank you Natalie for being such an inspiration to so many women!

I first heard about Natalie from my mom who is dying for one of her books. What a great gift this would be!

love it love it. god bless america.

Bravo !!! What a meaningful piece. The story alone makes me want to buy Alabama Chanin. Looking at the designs - I'd buy them without the heart-warming story. Talk about feeling good in an outfit! What could be better than women buying clothes made by women whose lives are made better by what you wear. Rah rah sis boom bah!!

inspiring, beautiful work with a vision to match. i would love to make these...

I have seen Natalie's work in the past, but I somehow did not know about the cottage industry and community elements Alabama Chanin. How very inspiring and timely, as I have been dreaming of a similar scheme for my neighborhood in North Philadelphia. I would love to read her book and plan to get more information about her start up. Thanks for the dream fuel!

Wow, her designs and dreams were admirable and the scope of her imagination is vast beyond my wildest dreams...a true icon and an amazing women!

Beautiful handwork makes my heart beat a little faster. I just love it. What beautiful clothes. and a beautiful story. Good for you all!!!

I have admired her beautiful work for a while now. I love the fact that it is made by local people in her community. Well done for persevering with your dreams!

What a great women. I love the vision and fair trade. We all need to get back to our hometown roots. Thank you for inspiration.

stunning!

Hello to America's resurgence via the nurturing of design and the resultant success of the cottage industries! Good bye corporate, greedy, big box America.....and Etsy.....you are the catalyst for the change and the good things to come! I love articles like this that showcase success against the odds!

Absolutely beautiful film and work... I've been a hand sewer all my life, now getting back into it, loving every minute. Women make the world go 'round.

Wow.. goosebumps! She makes me proud to call Alabama my home too.

Lovely film clip and she does amazing work/designs..where are her pieces sold? Enjoyed this alot.

Thanks for sharing this story. It reminds me that each of us has something absolutely unique to contribute to the world.

Amazing and so awe inspiring! Beyond impressed with her talents and work!

love the story, and the clothing. inspiring!

Truly inspiring. Eric, awesome (two thumbs up) job on the film.

Gorgeous designs, inspiring story!!

Amazing designs and the eye for detail. Love how she has been able to help her local economy.

What an incredible story! My mother (MAMA!!!) is a 'Bama girl, and the tiny town she grew up in, Roanoke, was completely dependent on the cotton mill that dominated the center of life there. When the mill closed, it devestated the people of the area. For you to give the local artisans not only income that is so necessary but also a way to express their hearts in their work for Alabama Chanin goods, is amazing and beautiful! Now, if you just served my Grandma Edmondson's homemade buiscuits with Diamond Joe Syrup each morning to your artisans, you'd have the PERFECT company to work for! Thank you for setting an example that as many businesses as possible should follow..... the humanity in a product is worth the time, effort and heart that is put into it.

The word "devastated" was missssspelled along with "biscuits".... guess you can tell I was excited!

that is my dream! to employ local talent and to give myself and others a living wage. One day!

You are an inspiration for a handmade life, thank you for the gift you bring to the world. I am inspired by the cooperative way you have designed your company and am so thrilled you have talented Alabama women sewing! I'm from Red Bay and went to college at UNA in Florence. If only I was there now I'd love to sew for you!

From one Bama girl to another...Kudos!! Her work and dedication to the areas of Alabama that are in dire need of assistance is admirable to say the least. I adore her garments and would love to own her book.

Those clothes look amazing! I find it extremely interesting that she is allowing women to work for fair wages in such a traditional field. This is the same kind of work that women have picked up to supplement their income for hundreds of years. Awesome!

Such an inspiring woman!!!! Love this story!

As a fiber artist I know how much work goes into these clothes and how devalued fiber work has become. Because of this I have to applaud someone who pays fiber workers a living wage and who values their skills. The clothes are beautiful, creative and original - Bravo!

I am not eligible for the giveaway, but would still like to say: that was such an amazingly inspiring video! And I hope more people would see the value of handmade here in my country.

Gorgeous! Congrats on your feature!

What an inspiring story! I love that she looked to her roots for a solution and found a way to help local women at the same time.

So inspired! Love everything about the clothing..and the story is incredible!

Have loved her work since I saw her books. I admire her abiliites. Many work overseas with women to create a way to earn a living from their hand work, it is wonderful to see someone do it in the US where there is also a need for women to be able to earn a living from their handwork.

I have been in love with hand sewing all my life. But I have been newly inspired by Natalie and her books which are alive with handwork. The beauty and care put into these pieces is both intimate and bold, revealing a bit of the artist in each stitch.

I am so excited to have come across this story. I was a fashion design major in college and am always a little sad when so much of what is available to purchase is mass produced, so often off shore and with little or no style. It's wonderful that this very thoughtful creative and caring woman has found a way to create beautiful work and showcase the concept of a true cottage industry with all of the positive influence that it can have. I will continue to follow her work and look forward to seeing what the future holds for this terrific venture. Truly an American sucess story for everyone involved. Thank you to Etsy for sharing her story.

...and the Universe says, YES! YES! YES!.. Enjoy your success, empowering others is the most magnificent gift you can give to another human being. What a wonderful and inspiring story.

It is so wonderful to see someone living the dream and not stepping on anyone in the process. I love sewing, but it is so difficult to earn a living wage doing it. It's inspiring to see it in action. Thanks!

Congratulations,Very inspiring ! Love what you do & do what you love. In New York hand sewing like this is extinct.

I love local economy stories!!

Very inspiring story. I love the ideas in her books.

Gosh, so inspirational! I was attracted to this story by of Natalie's beautiful silvery locks. Love what she has done in Alabama and her beautiful designs. This kind of story gives me hope that the economy is going to shift due to grass root visionaries like Natalie.

What a great, inspiring piece Americana! In this day and age where everything is happens so fast with technology ruling our lives, I am happy to see people going back to basics. There IS nothing like a handsewn, handmade item and although I think it is becoming more of a necessity, so much technology is stressful, I hope it will become more and more commonplace. Making things with your hands and minds is definitely food for the soul. Thank you for sharing this film with us Eric.

So many typos...see, I need to slow down! :)

this is very inspiring thanks for sharing!

beautiful and inspiring! don't really know what else to say. the creations say it all!!

A true inspiration.

Hand sewing is very popular in hi-tec/fast-fashion Japan where many folk don't have enough room to set-up a machine. The kimono has always been hand-stitched. Sewing by hand is taught to children from kindergarten onwards. It's a great thing to be able to do. If you sew your clothes by hand you realise you don't need to rely on machines and big business to shopping, shopping, shopping. You realise you don't need so many new clothes, all the time. You just need *good* clothes. As a child growing up in Australia, American-made clothes were always thought of as 'ichiban'. I still like to see 'made in USA'.

I just love your story on how you were living in a big city and how you wanted to have something original made but you couldn't get it done where you were. I like the fact that you went home and helped other people help you visualize your dream. Very nice. I have a feeling in me that i cannot even put into words. Your designs are beautiful. And yes, you have kept it in the USA.

...what I felt in my heart was right... Love this!!!

Its nice to see so many women enjoying their jobs! I've worn handmade garments in the past and it really does make a difference

WOW...just stopped by Alabama's BLOG (shop) and I loved it!...Txs for sharing w/ us!..."L"

Lovely.

If only there were more of us doing this. I guess I better start now!

The designs are beautiful. I love involving the community. There are several cottage industries in the NorthEast, it just makes sense to take advantage of the workforce at hand. To have a part in creating something beautiful as well as to be rewarded it for it, seems to me to be the perfect business plan.

Everythign about this article is tunning. Alabama, her clothes, her philosophy and the video!

Such an inspiration!

Alabama Chanin is amazing-- Natalie, the designs, the sewists, the localness! I'm a big fan of the slow cloth movement. Thanks for the great interview!

Thank you so much for this feature! Enjoyed this video with great appreciation and joy of seeing things being done in such a beautiful and dignified way in clothes industry. Should be a great inspiration for many initiatives globally! Love and light to all!

Being someone who only sews by hand....ALOT, this woman's work stabs me ever so gently (sewing needle size) right in the heart. Being someone who's trying to start a social venture with my work, to empower women/families in poverty with simple sewing techniques, i am pressed to re-double my courage and discipline.

What a wonderful inspiration and a great way to really make a difference in an industry that really needs a re think right now!

What an inspiration and beautiful garments, thank you for sharing.

Absolutely beautiful designs!!Love your clothes!! Thank you for sharing this interview :)

This is just beautiful! I've been reading your blog for a long time now, but this video really says so much more! Beautiful!

a beautiful story! I love her work!

Awe inspiring story, beautiful clothing and a priceless message.

Wow! Beautifully done!

I love her work

It is so wonderful when people work together and care about the quality of life. Beautiful piece.

What a wonderful, amazing story that brought tears to my eyes. So thankful for such a wonderful caring person who would take the time to give derserving folks decent jobs. Amazing clothing!

I love the idea of keeping an old tradition alive. The clothes are beautiful!

I admire this woman so much, and have her first book. Luv huh!

What a lovely idea to find new ways of making a living for our own impoverished people while keeping old traditions alive. There are so many old traditional handicrafts that have have been "copied" by machines. These handicrafts just don't translate as well when made by machine. They were meant to be crafted by people's hands and those people added their own creative touches to each one. It makes my heart sing to know someone is keeping these traditions alive and, maybe in the process, helping build dignity within our own neighborhoods.

Amazing and empowering!!!!

I will have to go out and get the first book right away! Love her ideas.

what an amazing story! and beautiful work here!

Love this story; I have also been sewing most everything by hand so I love this concept!

Blessings to Natalie for the gift she has and the heart to share it! She recognizes that they need each other - her and the artisans.

There is nothing not super wonderful about the Alabama Chanin group. I love the books, the garments, the front-woman, everything. I have made a piece inspired by her first two books, and it was amazingly difficult and gave me a wonderful respect for her artisans. When I grow up, I want to work for Alabama Chanin. Until then, I guess I'll keep DIYing her beautiful designs.

I saw Alabama Chanin in Vogue several years back and have admired her work ever since. What she is doing is something that more designers should attempt, production in the USA. With the current economic situation we could benefit from the additional jobs and a revitalization of the garment industry in the USA.

beautiful film! i love her story and would love to learn more about the sewing techniques employed by her artisans. thanks!

I love her ideas. How wonderful to have some things made with quality in America!

the clothes are absolute magic....

Beautiful designs I love the one of a kind, handmade styles and made in the good ol' USA!!!

My hero!!!!!!!!!!!!!

My Hero!!!!!!!!!!! Seriously...long time fan

Such an inspiring story. Beautiful clothing, handmade has a spirit all it's own.

Love it! I live in Alabama and this is so appreciated! I learned to sew when I was younger and look forward to sewing some of Alabama Chanin inspired items!

Great feature! Lovely designs!!!! My mom first taught me to handsew before I was allowed to use a machine!!

I saw a special on this on TV. I was impressed as a life long seamstress, more impressed as a southerner that someone is doing what it takes to help an area with a depressed economy, yet so full of so many talented people. Good Job!

Beautiful story, thank you for writing about this. I wish there were more people out there willing to take a chance and try to produce some good in this world by helping out their friends and neighbors. I, for one, am inspired.

I love Natalie's design aesthetic and drive to push for what she believes in.

One of those success stories that should be told to high schoolers to inspire and show them that hard work pays off.

Love her designs but the idea of using local workers instead of sending the product overseas makes the clothing morally acceptable. Also love that she shows any home sewer how to duplicate her designs so they are accessible to all.

I love the idea of creating and supporting a local economy. I was turned on to Alabama Chanin by my Astrology teacher, she brought in a book to my salon and I was enchanted by what I saw and decided at that moment that I wanted to do this.

I have loved Natalie's work for a long time. I got a chance to see her beautiful work up close at a trunk show in Memphis Tn. I would love to have a copy of the book. I have three daughters who would be very happy to receive my handiwork for Christmas.

Brings Tears to my eyes. I respect Natalie for sharing her "gift" and encouraging the community as if we are her familiy, to create and HOW to create. She nurtures us not because it is a requirement, but because it comes from her heart. She has made a spirit of people who feel fulfilled because she is not afraid to reveal her wisdom. I believe this is the aurora that surrounds Natalie and enables the "wow" to happen. Simply, I want to Thank You for sharing...it brings me energy for my artistic soul.

Really beautiful designs.

great video. very inspiring, thanks.

Very beautiful and inspiring! :)

The video made me cry also. It's such a beautiful, contemplative thing the do, hand sewing something. I am falling more and more in love with handmade. I've been following Alabama Chanin for several years. Thanks you for featuring her work.

I moved to Alabama from Florida close to 10 years ago when my husband got a job here. I recall hearing several people say that they worked in a textile mill that had recently closed down when I first moved here. I know of several vacant ones in South Alabama. So I relate to what Natalie is saying about people loosing their jobs who worked in the textile industry. She's doing a wonderful thing to have local people work for her! Wonderful clothing as well.

I am enthralled with this story! I have never heard of the woman or company before but this story has peaked me interest and I'm off to read more!

Alabama Chanin has inspired me to make my own wedding dress! I own another one of Natalie's books and I just can't get enough of her gorgeous inspiration. Congrats to her entire team for making their mark in this world and in such a positive way.

So incredably beautiful!!!!! These are the clothes I want to wear. So inspiring I will have to get the book. Thank you Natalie for your vision and sharing it.

Great story!! What a wonderful way to give back to a community and create beautiful pieces of clothing.

I'm from a town in North Carolina that has been hugely affected by the closing of textile mills. And, as a sewer/quilter, I hugely appreciate what the Natalie has done for the sewers of Alabama. What an incredible story!

Inspiring! I have seen her work before, and I really like it. Now I love it more, having seen some of the seamstresses enjoying and taking pride in their work.

Although I am not eligible for the giveaway I had to comment!,I have admired Alabama Chanin's work since I had seen a feature on vogue.com! beautiful well made garment's sourced and worked locally!

I LOVE this. Notice she said 'relationship' and meant it. It's not a supply chain to her. It's a relationship. Bravo!

This is incredible and inspiring. Myself and Sarah of SquidWhale are working towards our own solutions for handmade sustainable and considered clothing (at least for ourselves, maybe for the shop). Beautifully made pieces and such a great revitalization of a community. Great lessons to be taken from this!

Such beautiful clothing and a great organization. As I'm just jumping into sewing, this would be great!

Amazingly inspiring - just love the honesty of it all...

Oh wow that is amazing! The clothing stunning! Yes please add me to the giveaway! Sarah

such a beautiful story and i absolutely adore the clothing... wonderful!!

such a beautiful story and i absolutely adore the clothing... wonderful!!

Detail and vision.... the near and far of a beautiful piece, or, one's contirbution and participation in community... Inspiring to see such a successful grafting of soul and craft.

I have your book on my Amazon wishlist, and I can't wait to get my hands on it! My home state is Alabama, and it brings me joy to know that you are supplying people with a way of life!

What a fantastic opportunity! Keep up the wonderful and inspirational work. xx Marla

This story and short film is so inspiring, not only with the creative aspect, but just the human kindness factor. It made me want to challenge myself, not only as a seamstress, but to be more conscious of those around me. It is absolutely beautiful!

The Alabama Chanin books and web site are truly inspirational! So very beautiful. I am completely ham-handed, but Natalie makes me feel as though I just might have it in me to do this.

I so admire those who have a passion for sewing from the heart and enjoy the process of creating something so special. I think more and more people are beginning to appreciate this. Thank you for sharing this heart warming story.

Have admired Natalie's work ever since Project Alabama - keeping alive the art of hand-stitching!

such amazingly beautiful clothing. the passion and balance behind each piece is really inspiring. the clothing like a quilt seems to each have its own journey. if only one day i can be able to tell such an inspiring success story about my work growing with my community..... dreamy! Natalie Channin.... fashion hero!

As an Alabama native I am thrilled to see this company thrive. The decline of the textile industry in our state changed lives and restructured towns. The textile heritage of the South is rich and diverse, especially in Alabama. From the the Gees Bend quilts to the Mobile Mardi Gras regalia. Our local population, especially the women, have always produced exquisite textiles, often out of necessity. It comes as no surprise to me that this stunning line of clothing is made here by our people.

what a beautiful video about beautiful women. so inspiring...

What a wonderful story. Using unemployed individuals to assist with her line of clothing.....remarkable! I have never heard of Natalie Channin until today, and I am extremely impressed. Absolutely beautiful clothes.....I love them. Congratulations Natalie! From a Tennessee girl to an Alabama girl......you are good!

I adore the Alabama Chanin aesthetic, like many things southern, there is a sad and inspirational back story. It is because of folks like Ms. Chanin and her artisians, I am so proud to say I live in Alabama.

mindycarlene introduced me to Alabama Chanin a few months ago - sublime. inspiring.

This inspires me to start sewing even more by hand

Thank for featuring Natalie, her work and her mission in this Etsy story--what a nice way to start my day! I have long admired Natalie's commitment to design, the environment and her employees. Her first two books, artworks in themselves, have served as an inspiration for me, and I can't wait to get my copy of her latest. Thank you, Natalie, for giving so much!

Natalie's story inspires me! Thank you for sharing it on Etsy. I could fall in love with this design line. It makes me want to start sewing again...

love it! first saw the work with the heath ceramics collaboration, and it's been interesting learning more about the design behind the name! the work is gorgeous.

Viva La Hand Sewing!

I discovered, Project Alabama, Natalie's initial introduction into ready to wear in an Indianapolis, IN boutique. The buyers were forward thinking regarding what to offer to their well traveled client base. The garments were sewn by loving hands and pieces of wearable art. Natalie, your work has literally altered so many lives in a positive direction. Thank you for branching out, sharing not only your story, but the story of those women who were gifted with talent and helping them elevate themselves & their families, and continueing to bring the "Alabama" mission even further with your latest published works. You and the Alabama women are role models to us all that change is possible and being skilled in any type of textile fabrication, knitting, weaving, sewing, spinning, stumpwork is a art form of expression. Thank you, Lisa Crawford @ noirgriffon@aol.com

I cracked open my copy of Alabama last night in an attempt to get out of a funk, it worked...then I ran across this highlighted piece today, carrying me through to not only ending my day yesterday looking at great design and dreaming, but also starting my day off today with inspiration, too. Thanks Natalie!

The work is so lovely! And what a wonderful idea. So glad we are moving towards a more sustainable culture!

My grandmother and my favorite aunt were employed by the textile mills their entire lives. All the southern textile mills have long since moved overseas, leaving so many women who relied on the extra money earned with no way to help support their families. Miss Natalie is a true Southern Belle and a sweet soul to help so many needy people. Who says the south ain't got soul? xoxo jypsye

I love her stuff so much!

Awesome video! I love her work and that she developed her whole company within the community. I wrote a business plan for my clothing company and included Natalie as a example of how I want my business to be. We have to take a stand and create jobs here in the USA. Their are so many skilled workers here and whats so funny is that hand made was what this country was founded on. I give huge props to her and she is my inspiration. Much Love!

What an absolutely amazing and inspiring story. To see the joy on those employee's faces and to know they are doing something they love while still being able to support their families is inspiring. I've always had difficulty with sewing machines so have never really got into sewing. But this movie just reminded me that I spent months every weekend with my grandmother learning how to sew by hand all those beautiful stiches. I'm inspired to try again! So wonderful thank you!

Wonderful Film!!! Love the clothes- BEAUTIFUL!!!!! Would love to learn how to sew more then the basic stitch!!!

Love her work. So inspiring!

One woman with a vision can indeed change the world. Alabama Chanin is a brilliant concept by a woman with both a heart and a sound head for business. The Southern textile industry was once one of the most important in the world. Natalie Chanin and her designs are a blessing for the highly skilled workers displaced by those with lesser vision.

Her designs are stunning! So excited to see this feature!

A few years ago I worked at a museum that exhibited garments that represented aesthetics and techniques from around the world. There were several pieces from Alabama Chanin that were included in the exhibition. I condition reported each piece - my eyes and hands examined the cut and structure, seam and stitch. It was an uplifting day to spend time with those pieces. Alabama Chanin affirmed my view that art through the process of handcrafting and innovation represents the best of who we are. Human creation. The reason why I choose, and remained until recently, in museum work.

As we say here in MA "AWESOME"!! "AWESOME"!!

WOW! Never knew! Alabama Chanin is an amazing example and story for us all warm and inspire our creative hearts. Thank You!

Just ordered Natalie's two books on-line - can't wait to get them!

Seeing the pleasure on the faces of the sewers as they make items to last a lifetime is priceless. Natalie Chanin has reminded us that women can make a positive improvement to our world. I would love to have the chance to attempt to make one of her designs.

Luv It! I never would have thought of making clothing without using a machine at all. I will have to try it. I spend a lot of time at soccer practices and games with nothing to do during down times. Being able to work on things there would be great!!

Beautiful story!

A truly inspiring story – thanks for sharing!

Wonderful combination of talent, drive, business sense, and most surprising, ethics! Great to see that success can happen in your own backyard.....

What a beautiful story! From a family who grew up in the South with members still residing, thank you artisans of Alabama Chanin for inspiring growth and hope.

What a wonderful story! Natalie is an amazing woman, very inspiring!

This is so right! I'm starting on my first skirt. I know it will take more time than using a sewing machine, but I know it will be worth it.

Beautiful work! congratulation! Thank for sharing!!!

Oooo me likey :)

The stitchwork and clothing are exquisite! I visited the website and each piece of clothing and accessory left me in reverie. :) Thanks for sharing the story. I would love to learn through Natalie's book, it is so inspiring!

I just discovered their work and I'm more than a little obsessed!!

What a beautiful little film with a very inspiring subject. I read the AC blog all the time. It was nice to see Natalie in a "motion picture"(<:

Natalie, thank you for what you are doing. It is inspiring to people like me who love to do handwork to see that you are calling on locals, people in the community, to contribute their time and talents to make the fine clothes of Alabama Chanin. It esteems the local population and their skills and the end results are rewarding for you, for them, for your customers, for everyone.

Watching those women makes me want to go pick up a needle right now.

I have always enjoyed looking at these books for sewing ideas. Her garments are lovely. Jo

I love the peace of watching them hand sew. Inspiring. Sharon

Wow! Beautiful garments! Never heard of her before and find it fascinating that she has made a business out of hand sewing! Supporting her community like she does is amazing as well! So inspiring!

Great feature.Beautiful clothing. :)

Art you can wear...from a company with heart. Love it!

Beautiful clothing. This is the first time I have seen her work and I am inspired and just happy that her business can be profitable whilst providing an income and a fulfilling occupation to local artisans. It just goes to show what an impact one person with a vision can make.

Finally a feature on my favorite State!! Since 2002, my daughter Allison and I vacation twice a year or a month during the summer in Northern Alabama. I love all the handmade items we find each and every Saturday at the Mountain Top flea market - from Florence to Anniston Al hitting all the areas boutique, shops, & yard sales . It is where I first fell in love with quilts and home decor and clothing handmade. I have Natalie's book Alabama stitchin- it's awesome. Thank you so much for featuring Natalie she is truly inspiring!

What a lovely and inspiring article! Thank you.

I have admired Natalie & her philosophy since the first time I picked up one of her books a few years ago. The styles and methods are timeless and endlessly inspirational. Reading over a technique of hers in a book always gets me thinking about my grandmother & that's something that always makes me smile & feel connected to her.

An inspiring story that shows great respect for the talents of those who need a path to success. One person can make such a difference...so glad that Natalie lead the way...

My heart has stopped in awe! I am near tears as I think back to the nights I would sneak into my grandmothers sewing room and watch her put the finishing touches on a garment that she had hand sewn, from start to finish. What a wonderful story! Thank you!

So happy to see Etsy bring attention to such a talented artist. Natalie Chanin is inspirational!

What a beautiful story about such an inspirational woman! Natalie's business model is wonderful and gives me plenty of food for thought! I appreciate being given the insight on how to improve the economy and community in which we each live. I never tire of reading about topics such as this! I only become more motivated to improve upon my own skills and products and to impress upon others the beauty of handmade :)

Wow. Seeing the actual artisans at work and listening to Natalie Chanin speak brings Alabama Chanin to life! So inspiring!

I am a huge fan of Natalie and Alabama Chanin. She has inspired me to live more sustainably, and this year I committed to only buy things I could not make myself. So far, I've been handsewing all my own clothes this year!

Oh, I love this! - Power to the Local -

This is one of the most uplifting posts I've read in ages. I have two toddler dresses--maybe a baby dress too--that were completely handsewn by my mother many, many years ago and I marvel at the talent and skill she showed on these treasures. I love your idea about sharing your secrets and showing others how to use them. I also love that your ideas are being warmly embraced, Natalie--and that you pay people living wages to do the work. We can be the change! Awesome post.

This is lovely and inspiring. Sustainability and wonderful designs.

i have been so inspired by natalie. each new project i start, involves more hand sewing and less machine. this southern girl is in love with the pace----slow!

Love, love, love, Alabama Chanin!!! : )

I love your story. It is so inspiring. Can't wait to get the books listed and find more inspiration. Thank you for bringing back hand and needlework. i do believe I'm going to start doing my 'own' designs

Very inspiring and encouraging!

I am amazed by this woman and her desire to help others help themselves. I am equally amazed at the beautiful craftmanship!

Reading about the Alabama Chanin clothing business is as close to a spiritual experience I have ever had. I love the whole idea behind Natalie's business. I so wish I could be a part of it. The world is so lucky she is here.

So lovely to see and hear Natalie Chanin describing her business from its beginnings to the here and now. I've been drooling over her amazingly beautiful designs since the first day I laid eyes on one of her pieces some years back. Natalie is such an inspiration -- her success so well deserved and I salute her for giving women of her community a beautiful way to earn a wage! Fabulous post!

Beautiful business philosophy and beautiful designs. We need more Natalies in the world.

I have loved Natalie's designes ever since I first stumbled onto her first book a few years ago. I think that her sustainability practices and business practices are what we all should strive to emulate in our own shops.

My great grammas and my mama taught me how to stitch.I have to do it everyday or my day doesn't feel right.Thank you for your books.Your clothes are the most beautiful I have ever seen.

I was so impressed by the film and the message presented. Handmade has such a negative connotation to most people. I appreciate how this is refuted and the talents of these wonderful women are respected.

Right on so many levels...

I have just dabbled in her techniques. Seeing the results develop on my reverse applique customised t-shirt was amazing and exciting. Makes you appreciate how much work goes in there to create a complete garment. I really enjoyed seeing the artisans having other jobs and doing Alabama Chanin garments.

the whole part just so creative and beautiful:)

These are the kind of stories I look for. How creative people can positively impact a community.

I have been a huge fan of Alabama Chanin since I first saw her work on the front cover of Fiber Magazine.I grew up with my mother in the women's wear industry in N.Y.C and would just love a job with her company!

i love her style. one day i will have a closet full of hand sewn jersey wear. i have made several pieces already and always look forward to peeks at any of her new designs.

Wonderful wonderful! A sustainable business model and celebration of beautiful handmade goods.

Wow and more wow. I've been in awe of this woman for some time - amazing story.

I've checked her books out from the library many times, but it would be great to be able to work with the patterns. Thanks for the chance to win a kit!

Natalie has helped me slow down and really take a look at valuating my own work. That's hard for me some times, especially the slowing down part!

Would love to try her techniques.

Beautiful clothes and a beautiful video! AND an inspirational story to boot! So cool.

As a fellow hand stitcher I was thrilled to find one with the gumption and grace to make a business here in the US, based on local talent and a living wage. Natalie you are a beautiful and inspiring relfection of artist, business woman and social activist of the highest order. It has long been my goal to put together a business using the talents and skills honned in years of crafting and quilting. I am so excited! Northern Cali anyone?

So inspiring! I recently finished making one of Natalie's skirt designs and discovered that I love hand-sewing. I look forward to making many more pieces from this treasure trove.

Between these garments and the kantha quilts coming from India, I'm feeling very inspired about repurposing materials that I otherwise would have thrown away. Paying people a living wage, when they have long been without one, is wonderful, too.

Truly inspiring. :)

Lovely film! I'm a great admirer of the Alabama Chanin ethos and aesthetic.

Keep up the amazing work!

This is just beautiful craftsmanship. Amazing. I love the dedication of all these artists and the quality of all the pieces. Really amazing. Why buy clothes from outside of this country when you can find amazing pieces at "home"?

such an fantastic company run by inspiring people!

Thank you for sharing this inspirational story! And, the clothes are absolutely gorgeous!

I have been so impressed with the whole package that Alabama Chanin represents, from using locally/regionally sourced organic cotton, to providing flexible income for mostly women, and generously sharing the patterns and ideas created by Natalie and her team, not to mention the simple brilliance behind the designs. I have never ever been so enamored by a company and a concept and a community. keep up the amazing work and thanks for sharing it with us all!

Absolutely inspiring....I have followed the growth of Alabama Chanin for years. In fact, Ms. Chanin is included in my personal inspiration journal. Beautifully crafted clothing and business savy. Proo positive it can be done.

What lovely eye candy. Have seen your books in bookstore, but that is obviously not the whole story. I am familiar with the Japanese craft book model, where they sell the books, fabric and notions. But you also sell the finished product. Thanks

I have all three of Natalie Chanin's books and have loved her designs since the days of Project Alabama. I admire the idea behind the company and how her company allows people to continue time honored traditions. I have made a few of the items in the books using recycled t-shirts and thrift store found cotton jersey. And although I'm a very proficient at sewing on a machine, nothing beats items that are hand sewn. It is amazing how such a simple material like jersey can be transformed into something with a look and feel of richness that can't be matched. I thank Natalie for allowing the public free access to her designs and ideas.

What an inspiring idea and way of life. I think its much more fulfilling to share with others, than to go it alone, to try to reach our goals.

I've read a couple of her books and have loved them both. This looks absolutely wonderful!

Thanks for the story, it's exciting to hear about a designer making the effort to employ craftswomen and men and pay a living wage.

Lovely work. It reminds me of traditional Indian sewing work - which of course is all done by hand.

Truly inspiring~

Just wonderful. How can I see more?

Such a heart warming story. It's such an inspiration to find someone who gives back to the community and appreciates that community. Very refreshing. Thank you so much for sharing your story.

We have been working & starting a sewing initiative in Juarez, MX. I am sooo happy to hear other people doing the same work really well. All our clothes are handmade--the question is by who. Were they paid a fair wage? I love your story!! Empowering people is a life calling.

Great story, I'm always happy to learn about folks like Natalie.

Such an inspiration. Not only is her work beautiful, but the concept is genius. These books will be on my must read list!

A couple of days ago I was trying to remember her name because of a story I read a few years ago and here it is. Love this story and so glad to see it here!

How did I not know about this before? So gorgeous!

I am a long-time fan of this company, its founder, and her philosophy. Having sewn a couple of items from the book series I can fully appreciate the amount of work that goes into each one, and I only wish I could purchase an entire Alabama Chanin wardrobe!! It was lovely to see Natalie herself in the film, as well as some of the women she employs. Thank you!

I am such a long time admirer of Natalie and her work, she is so talented and creative, especially in her methods of growing a strong business.

the work..inspiring..creative..innovative..the designs unique...fan...big fan here.

...made me cry with happiness.

Love Alabama Chanin! I buy their organic cottons to make some of my scarves with. The quality is fantastic!

these clothes are so beautiful. i've never seen anything quite like them. i want all 3 books and a kit and.... i want to make something using these methods. gorgeous! i am so encouraged too to see someone paying fair wages to textile artisans. this is such a contrast to sweat shops. yeah for alabama chanin!!!

very inspiring. her web page is my go-to place when I want to see something pretty.

As an Alabama native, I'm so proud of what this company stands for and the passion they have for beautiful hand stitched artwork! Truly an inspiration!

A celebration of all things hand-made!

Women helping women is a most powerful gift to share. Thank you for the reminder and inspiration.

What a wonderful story.....it is such an inspiration......thank you so much for sharing.....

Just warms my soul to see this video and learn of Alabama Chanin. Thank you Natalie and your staff of artisans for keeping the great art of hand sewing alive. Sew hard to find quality clothing these days, seems it is more about quantity than quality, sew disheartening. I am a hand quilter, so I can really appreciate your work. . . . I find the time with the needle, is the most spiritual time of my day nothing like it.

Many hours of my childhood were spent with my grandmother and mother hand sewing, cross-stitching, and embroidering. I learned an art that is almost lost - and learned to be patient and careful with each stitch. Recently I married and sewed most of my dress by hand - what a labor of love! So it's a pleasure to stumble upon this story and view the beautiful clothing. Congratulations on such success and kudos to you for employing people with skill, heart, and pride.

I can't believe such perfection exists one hour away from my home! I love to sew. Learned from my granny on her mothers old pedal machine and I just can't get enough. I can't wait to get started on my first project. For my daughter starting at Auburn in the fall. Thank you so much Natalie. You are an inspiration. Want to expand to Huntsville?

Attended the Alabama Quilt show at the DeYoung SF a few years ago. Handwork is soothing and wonderful.

What an inspiring story. I think it took a great deal of bravery to make this work.

It is a lovely style, and also very interesting business model! So gorgeous! :)

I am so inspired by Natalie .... Her Buisnes motivation and design astetic really strike a chord with me. Thank you so much for sharing this!

Cottage industries are such inspiring stories -- thanks so much for giving this one attention!

I discovered Alabama Chanin a little over a year ago while browsing through some books at the library. I immediately fell in love with the beauty, styles and technic. Not long after I saw the book I actually spotted someone wearing one of the skirts at a local fabric/yarn shop. She had sewn it herself and it was gorgeous! I would be absolutely thrilled to win a copy of this book!

This is a once upon a time story brought to modern day life. It is incredibly beautiful. As I watched the video I was surprised at the connection I felt and was amazed with a feeling that I can only describe as awe, like when you know something is really good. I certainly look forward to learning more about this artist and the good things she is doing for her community. Well done!

Her books are works of art, and her ethos is inspirational. I have all three and love them to bits. My most beautiful and looked at books.

nice!!I love Alabama Chanin!!!!

Beautiful!

Wow, this is the first time I have ever heard of Alabama Chanin. The clothes are beautiful, and the story is inspiring.

wow! fabulous story to go with a gorgeous clothing line! you are the pure example of 'finding success when doing what you love'. i run a small business hand making decorated cookies all by myself, so i understand your commitment to making each item you create beautiful and special. congratulations on all your success!

What a great inspiration! Finding Natalie Chanin and reading about her made me believe in my self that my hands can DO IT, just like she and her artisans have made it :) Fantastic! Also really nice short film, well done! x