Creative Threads - Meet Maxine Norris

How did you first learn to sew? 

I started sewing around March 2020 back in lockdown. I had a machine but had only ever used it to sew straight lines for pieces of fabrics I used to make fabric covered pin boards! I started sewing face masks and that grew into tote bags, pouches, bucket hats and aprons.  By this time I had started following some sewing accounts on Instagram and found myself inspired by the talent and creativity out there and I really wanted to have a go at sewing clothes

What advice would you give to people thinking about making their own clothes? 

For anyone starting out with sewing I would say start simple, just a basic sleeveless top is what I first made and don’t be deterred by something that you think doesn’t fit you perfectly! Getting a good fit is a skill that comes with lots of practice and using old sheets to make toiles is something I would recommend particularly if you’re unsure on what size to make as sewing pattern sizes don’t equate to high street shops sizes. 

What do you love most about sewing? 

Sewing gives you the opportunity to be creative, to choose fabrics that inspire you and patterns to suit your own personal style and body. But what I love most is the time spent on focusing on just one thing, it’s like a switch is flicked and everything else is put on hold and a sense of calm fills an otherwise busy mind, its a wonderful escape from day to day life! 

What sewing skill did you find the hardest to master? 

I still have lots of sewing skills to master, it’s a journey that never ends!  I’m always apprehensive of putting in zips and I didn’t think I’d ever fathom the burrito method of lining a bodice but I did and it feels like a little bit of magic when you pull it through and it all looks perfect! 

Is there a garment you've made more than once? 

I have a few patterns that I’ve made more than once. When something fits you well and you wear it often it’s a sign that it’s worth making again. For me these include Viva dress by Fibre Mood , Toaster sweater by Sew House Seven and the Wilder Gown by Friday Pattern Company (my most recent make)  

What garment you've made is the most memorable to you? 

I think I would have to pick 2 outfits that are really memorable to me. The first is my 2 piece floral co-ord I wore to Welsh Frocktails in May ‘25 comprising of an asymmetric one sleeve top and ruffled trousers, made in a stunning bold floral print by English designer Mary Benson. I absolutely loved making and wearing this and it was a fantastic night with so many inspirational ladies wearing their own creations.  The second stand out garment has to be the dress I made to wear to a family wedding last September. I had 4 metres of  the most beautiful Liberty silk in my stash that I had never been brave enough to cut into but this was a special occasion so I took the plunge and made the Anna Dress by By Hand London.  There were 7 maxi length almost triangular panels in the skirt, I think I held my breath through the entire cutting out process! The final dress was beautiful, it fitted perfectly and I felt amazing and very proud on the day.

Where do you usually sew? 

We have a large spare room which is mainly glass and I’m lucky to have this as my sewing space. I do have to keep all the fabric in cupboards or it would definitely end up light damaged.

What keeps you inspired to keep making? 

I’m constantly inspired to keep sewing by the online community. There is so much talent and passion for the craft out there that not a day goes by when I don’t see a new pattern or a lovely fabric that I add to my wish list for future projects! There are so many amazing creatives that inspire me every day but I have to give huge thanks to a group of a) amazing ladies who created and run the instagram account @sewover50, and b) everyone who contributes daily; sharing their makes, it really has been such a blessing to follow their journeys and pick up so much useful information through the love of a shared passion.

What is the one sewing tool you wouldn't be without? 

I love a sewing gadget so it’s really hard to pick one! So here’s a list of 3 of my must haves! A) a good rotary cutter and as big a cutting mat as you have space for. B) a decent unpicker, mine gets used with most projects! C) An extravagant purchase but its made my life so much easier and gives a really professional finish to your garments, my Babylock Acclaim Air threader Overlocker

And finally, what are you planning to make next?

My next 2 makes are going to be patterns by a new designer/company called Ciao Patterns. I purchased them at the Stitch Festival in London and the Maria Skirt and Gilda dress will be great additions to my summer wardrobe.