This week, I have been sewing a muslin version of each of the custom slopers that I drafted last week. Drafting and sewing five different custom slopers at a time has emphasized the many differences in body shapes that aren't accommodated for in standard sizing. These variations in shape are unique enough that when I hold up a finished pattern or muslin, it's like looking at a puzzle piece that will fit only in one space, and I am able to visualize the person for whom the muslin was drafted. Even though the outline of a men's shirt is generally rectangular, the subtle variation in cut built specifically for each customer is visible.
I have been drafting custom patterns all week to fulfill orders from my new spring/summer line. Thank you to everyone who placed an order!
For my whole adult life, I have been self-conscious about my tendency to be a bit OCD. I always worry that I will annoy people by being so thorough, so fastidious, so knit-picky, etc. I'm always apologizing for these behaviors, both verbally and with my body language.
Recently, I've experienced the benefits of being so particular, so attentive to detail-----it means that I do a good job on a number of things (where this would be important)! That high standard for the quality of every detail of what I'm working on has been noticed both in my Montessori activities and my work in fashion. It really boosted my confidence to, for the first time, acknowledge that something I've always considered a failing might actually be an asset (while still underscoring that it can also be a hinderence in certain ways and activities).
I don't feel, for once, that I need to apologize for the way that I am, but that it is what makes me great at what I do! :)
