A sustainable sewing studio
7 Pine Design Studio is all about sustainable sewing, and supporting children in need through charity sewing. I am a “one woman show” based in coastal Massachusetts, USA, and ship worldwide. My sewing machines are powered by solar panels, and all fabric scraps are recycled through a collection center serving the paper industry.
7 Pine Design was established in 1995, when I retired from working full-time in the garment industry as a technical designer (I still freelance as a fit specialist for other design firms). Over decades, I had accumulated more Sample Sale “deadstock” fabrics and trims than I could possibly use for my little family. My shop began with these end-of-production bolts of fabrics, and yardage leftover from sewing sample garments. I constantly add to my stash by shopping at flea markets and thrift shops. My favorite up-cycle materials are vintage linens: curtains, tablecloths, and placemats. If I spot a roll of lace from an old factory, I grab it. The only new-production fabrics I use are classic Kaufman-brand Kona cottons, and a limited amount of current materials requested by clients.
Every purchase from 7 Pine Design Studio supports charity sewing for families in need. I sew dresses for little girls around the world who have never had a new clothing item of their own, through several excellent non-profit organizations. I also sew bereavement gowns for preemie babies through volunteer groups serving hospital NICUs (more information, including my free patterns and tutorials, can be found on my sewing blog: www.7pinedesign.com). Even though the preemie gowns are made from donated worn wedding dresses and the girls outfits are from fabric I already own, the costs for packing materials and shipping fees are substantial, and these expenses are taken care of through my Etsy shop.
My most recent sewing projects involve up-cycling vintage wedding dresses that I purchase at flea markets and thrift shops. I turn these into one-of-a-kind heirloom portrait dresses, communion outfits, and baptism gowns. All profits from the sale of these items directly support charity sewing.
FAQ
Do you take rush orders? Yes if time permits. Please convo me with your event date!
Do you take custom requests? Yes if time permits. Please convo me with your ideas!
Can I get free swatches to check the fabric or trim? Yes, just ask!
How long have you been sewing? Over 50 years.
Where did you learn to sew? My mother and grandmother taught me.
Where did you learn patternmaking? At the Fashion Institute of Technology in new York City.
Are all of your fabrics vintage/upcycled? Most are, however I do invest in new Kona cotton for some petticoats and slips. I also use some newer fabrics that have been donated to me by friends, or requested by a client for custom items.
To return to my shop:
www.etsy.com/shop/7PineDesign
To see what I'm making:
https://www.instagram.com/7pinedesign
