With the start of Autumn it feels like the right time to reflect on the experiment I’ve been running over the past few months.
The intention behind this season was simple: to return to making more pieces myself and to see whether that could work — both from a business perspective and on a personal level.
I’ve loved it.
Working on a made-to-order basis has been deeply satisfying. I’ve gotten to massively improve my sewing skills, understand cutting lays better...plus there’s no guessing game around what sizes to make.
But more than anything, I’ve loved the connection to who I’m making for. Holding the person's name in mind while cutting and sewing brings a sense of meaning that’s hard to beat.
There are so many positives in this way of working.
But of course there's a flip side - this models also relies heavily on my own consistency and capacity. Which is actually kind of unpredictable.
Since I got diagnosed with ADHD last year I've been a bit of a mission to find a business model that supports how I operate as a human. So this experiment has been invaluable in understanding more about what I need in order to live a good life.
Huge shock: its a little more support... 😜
Maybe a few less ongoing tasks?
And probably a couple more boundaries around my work hours 🙄
There's no doubt I love to work, but if I'm honest with myself, my energy comes in waves and it always has. Some days and weeks need quieter times so I can do my best creative work. Default mode network and all that.
So I find myself holding two truths at once.
Making garments myself is creatively and personally rewarding. It brings purpose, connection, and satisfaction. But it's also quite taxing and leaves little room to breathe when things inevitably go sideways.
Moving into the autumn season, I’m aiming for balance. Look at me go! ⚖️
As longer term plan I'm thinking I'll thinking I'll keep end rolls on hand so I can make sold out sizes and one offs, which I think could be a really nice way to keep the handmade connection going.
This feels both sustainable and realistic.
This has been an immensely valuable experiment. Trying things out constantly — this seems to be my way of moving through both business and life.
Thank you for being part of that process. It’s been a genuine pleasure to share this evolving journey with you.
With big hugs,
Clare
