The most important thing I learned from being a new blogger was that my readers wanted to learn more about me. I hadn’t really thought about what to share or how much personal information I wanted to share before starting to blog. My experience with the blogs I’d read, was that the content was what would always draw me into reading a particular post, not usually the writer. I found out early on that many blog readers feel differently and want to connect with a blogger in some way. So I shared that I’m a professional pattern maker/textile designer and a few other specifics that seemed to help my readers relate to me more. I agree that it was important for me to establish my credibility especially in sharing technical sewing instruction. Even though I didn’t really plan to share sewing technique when I began to blog, it just sort of made sense to share tips as I worked on projects of my own. I just wanted to let the blog develop on it’s own and see what direction it would take. I’m very happy to find that many people feel I have a talent for conveying sewing information and sewing technique in a user friendly way. The bonus for me: I really enjoy teaching and will continue to explore and share with YOU my readers in writing new Picture Tutorials and writing and producing more Videos for my YouTube Channel.
I also learned after the pattern fitting series ended that there was a “Psychology of Sewing“. I wasn’t actually prepared for the outpouring of feelings and emotions I received in the form of messages, emails and even one in person. Many of my readers are just so unhappy with their current bodies that they no longer enjoy sewing for themselves. So I learned that it wasn’t as much an issue of HOW to fit yourself, but an issue of NOT WANTING to fit yourself, for many. Sad, but I appreciated those that shared their feelings so honestly with me. I feel that next year, I may revisit this topic again with a new approach….
I also learned throughout this process another important lesson. I learned that the greatest challenge for me in producing this series was managing my time schedule effectively. I was told that it’s the kiss of death for a blogger to start a series and then not finish or not have a post due on time when you’ve made a commitment. I’m happy to say that my 8 week pattern fitting series was posted like clock work!! I still get messages about how helpful the information has been for them and it remains the one of my most read posts on my blog even all these months later. Thank You!!
One of my personal goals with writing this blog was to try lot’s of new things throughout the year. I had lot’s of “firsts” that I’m proud of:
#3: Started a Chanel Jacket Sew-along: I’ve always been fascinated with the classic Chanel Jacket and the opportunity came along to join a sew-along and create my very own jacket. Unfortunately for me, it’s a HUGE time commitment that happened to fall into bad timing for me. I will be resuming this jacket soon after the New Year, because this is one item that I don’t want to become a UFO. Not sure how long a project has to be on the back burn before it’s considered a UFO?? So, for the record, I just pressed *pause* on this one……
There were lot’s of other first’s too. Those included being a pattern tester, using a PDF self printed pattern, a few Throw Back Thursday posts and even shared a Holiday Recipe post. I’ve enjoyed it All!!
So all in all, I’ve enjoyed my first year blogging. I would like to personally Thank ALL of You that stop by and read, subscribe, comment and support my efforts. It’s just words on a page if I’m not reaching out and appealing to you in a way that you find of value. I will be taking a personal inventory as I do every year and see what direction I will be taking my blog into next year. I would like to make changes to my blog and am excited to see what new opportunities will come my way and “Strike My Fancy”. I have a few things in the works and will be sharing them with you in the New Year.
As always, Have a Happy Creative Day!! Many Blessings to ALL of you in the New Year!!
Roxanne
I have thoroughly enjoyed your blog! Thank you!!!
Paceda
Nashville, TN
Not new to sewing, but I still enjoy reading your posts.
Thanks Paceda! Happy you enjoy it! Happy New Year!!
Thanks glorm! Thanks for the nice comment! Happy New Year!!
Nice article. I haven't sewn in years except for a couple of projects here and there. Once my girls got too big for home made I only get the machine out about once a year.
Congratulations on your first year of blogging. I think I may have missed the fitting posts. Must go and have a look. Happy new year!
Thanks Vicki!! Please do check out my fitting series. If you have an questions, feel free to comment or message me. Happy New Year to YOU too!!
Congratulations on one year of blogging! Thanks for sharing all your sewing knowledge and I'm looking forward to year #2.
Thanks joen!! I'm looking forward to it!! Can't wait to explore more new things and see what I'll learn.