|
The Mountain Thread CompanyThe Mountain Thread Company opened in October 2015 as a working studio, shop, and event space in downtown Blowing Rock. I make modern home decor baskets and quilts on site, sell products made by other local and regional makers, and host classes and artisan events. I opened the shop with the mission of engaging in and promoting mountain culture and economy, and have been excited to see that mission grow and expand in all areas of my business model.
|
I am proposing an idea for growth that improves my class offerings. Currently, sewing classes are limited to 3 participants because of the number of sewing machines available for use. While participants can bring their own, this is sometimes a hindrance due to personal budget or age/condition of machine. Providing quality machines for aspiring sewists would allow them to attain new skills without the frustrations of adjustments and tunings that older machines often need.
|
Attaining new skills in turn builds confidence, self-respect, and positive social interactions. The consistent use of quality machines also frees the instructor (me!) to engage with participants on a personal level, encouraging the art and creative process rather than constantly troubleshooting problem machines.
Coupled with the purchase of new sewing machines comes quality instruction materials. I have been developing my own patterns and using free ones available online, but have struggled with dedicating time (and mental energy) to this at the expense of other valuable business pursuits. The opportunity to teach from books whose patterns have been tested by developers and beginners over time is an attractive solution to this issue. |
The following are instruction books dedicated to beginners - I would like to purchase one of each, in order to have a variety of topics to cover and classes to offer:
-School of Sewing by Shea Henderson
-Modern Prairie Sewing by Abigail A Long
-Sewing School by Amie Petronis Plumley and Andria Lisle (for children)
-Learn to Sew with Lauren by Lauren Guthrie
-Modern Basics: Easy Quilts by Amy Ellis
-Modern Minimal by Alissa Haight Carlton
These books target beginners of all ages who are interested in projects ranging from home decor to clothing to quilts. There are so many projects out there, and using tried and proven instructions is an engaging way for local learners in develop and grow their new skills.
Adding three machines, 6 books, 2 extra sets of machine bobbins, and 2 extra sets of replacement needles to the class inventory at The Mountain Thread Company would improve the classes and instruction, which would in turn increase engagement with participants and build a loyal customer base.
Proposed budget:
3 Sewing Machines (Janome 7318) @ $249/ea = $747
6 learn-to-sew books @ $20 ea = $120
2 sets of bobbins @ $6 ea = $12
2 sets of replacement needles @ $8 ea = $16
Total funding requested for project = $995
-School of Sewing by Shea Henderson
-Modern Prairie Sewing by Abigail A Long
-Sewing School by Amie Petronis Plumley and Andria Lisle (for children)
-Learn to Sew with Lauren by Lauren Guthrie
-Modern Basics: Easy Quilts by Amy Ellis
-Modern Minimal by Alissa Haight Carlton
These books target beginners of all ages who are interested in projects ranging from home decor to clothing to quilts. There are so many projects out there, and using tried and proven instructions is an engaging way for local learners in develop and grow their new skills.
Adding three machines, 6 books, 2 extra sets of machine bobbins, and 2 extra sets of replacement needles to the class inventory at The Mountain Thread Company would improve the classes and instruction, which would in turn increase engagement with participants and build a loyal customer base.
Proposed budget:
3 Sewing Machines (Janome 7318) @ $249/ea = $747
6 learn-to-sew books @ $20 ea = $120
2 sets of bobbins @ $6 ea = $12
2 sets of replacement needles @ $8 ea = $16
Total funding requested for project = $995
