During my first year living abroad in 2024 while in Edinburgh, I used the most beautiful 1950’s Brother sewing machine with one large quirk…the bobbins required hand winding, extending garment construction time considerably, however it still sewed beautifully. Something I potentially should have foreseen considering it was over 70 years old. All garments and accessories I made using this machine were stocked at Shop With No Name, a creative retail space. Founder Aleks, is now creating pieces for her own label using this machine.

During my time in Zurich I used a 1960’s PFAFF sewing machine that I set into a secondhand hardwood table for a smoother sewing experience and ensuring fabrics did not warp during the construction process. With this machine I produced a limited run of Zero Waste Jeans for Stockroom Collective and was also used for freelance projects with Vintagette.

To stay true to my goal of a zero waste practice, every sample garment made in Scotland, Switzerland and beyond has and will continue to be crafted from locally sourced fabric remnants and offcuts from old projects, and added to the wardrobes of friends and family. With my return to Melbourne I will continue using my trusty Juki Industrial sewing machine and overlocker for all future freelance projects and collaborations.