Category: Sewing

Choosing Joy Again: An Intentional Return to Sewing

Small steps, soft plans, and finding my way back to what matters

Lately, I’ve been sitting with a big question: How do I get my joy of sewing back?

Not the productivity.
Not the perfectly planned projects.
Not the pressure to finish what I said I would.

The joy.

This year, my word is Intentional. I’m realizing that getting my joy back doesn’t require a dramatic reset. It requires intentionality. Small, thoughtful choices made with care instead of urgency.

Intentional Baby Steps (Instead of Big Resolutions)

Right now, my next steps aren’t bold or flashy. They’re intentional.

They look like:

  • Sitting at my sewing space without the obligation to produce
  • Touching fabric without deciding its destiny
  • Sewing for 15 minutes and stopping when it feels right
  • Choosing curiosity over guilt

Being intentional means honoring where I am today, not where I think I should be. Joy returns when sewing feels safe again—when it’s allowed to be slow, imperfect, and just for me.

The Finish It and Toss It Series—An Intentional Revisit

I’ve been asking myself a big question. Should I continue the Finish It and Toss It series? This involves the planned work through my unfinished sewing projects, also known as WIPs and UFOs.

Here’s what intentionality is teaching me: The idea still has value. But, the way I engage with it needs to change.

Instead of finishing everything out of obligation, I’m choosing to intentionally revisit each project.

Some will be finished with care.
Some will be altered with fresh eyes.
Some will be released—intentionally and without guilt.

Completion is no longer the goal. Alignment is.

Do I Scrap All My Plans or Start Fresh?

An intentional approach doesn’t mean throwing everything away.

Those plans were created thoughtfully, but by a version of me with different energy and expectations. Rather than scrapping them entirely, I’m choosing to review them intentionally:

  • Keeping what still feels supportive
  • Adjusting what feels restrictive
  • Letting go of what no longer serves me

Starting fresh doesn’t always mean starting from zero. Sometimes it means editing with intention.

What Do I Tell the People Following Along?

Intentional communication matters too.

What I want to share—clearly and honestly—is this:

  • I’m reconnecting with sewing for joy, not constant output
  • Plans shift as I move more intentionally
  • Unfinished does not mean unsuccessful
  • This season is about sustainability, not speed

I don’t owe perfection. What I do owe is honesty—both to myself and to the people who have chosen to follow along.

Moving Ahead—Intentionally

This next chapter isn’t about doing more.
It’s about doing what matters.

I’m choosing to move ahead intentionally—allowing space for rest, creativity, and change. Whether joy returns quickly or slowly, I’m committed to listening, adjusting, and honoring the process.

This isn’t the end of sewing for me.

It’s an intentional, gentler beginning.

Please read the earlier post When You Lose the Will to Do What You Love here

Intentional: My Word for 2026

For the second year in a row, I’m choosing a word of the year that reflects my real life. It’s not a highlight reel or a goal list filled with pressure. It reflects the season I’m actually in. As I move into 2026, my word is intentional.

This word didn’t come from a trend or a list of “popular words for the year.” It came from lived experience. From lessons learned the hard way. From moments where I realized that being busy doesn’t always mean being fulfilled. Doing more doesn’t always mean moving forward.

Why Intentional, and Why Now

Intentional means choosing with purpose. It means slowing down long enough to ask why before saying yes. It means aligning my actions with my values instead of running on autopilot.

At this stage of my life, I’m learning that growth as an adult often looks quieter than we expect. It looks like discernment. It looks like boundaries. It looks like honoring your energy instead of giving it away freely.

In 2026, I’m no longer interested in pouring from an empty cup. I want to live in ways that support the woman I’m becoming. I want to move and create in ways that support her as well. I will not support the version of me that felt obligated to do it all.

Being Intentional With My Fitness

Fitness has been a constant in my life, but my relationship with it continues to evolve. In 2026, I’m choosing intentional fitness—not punishment, not extremes, not chasing quick results.

This year, my goals are rooted in:

  • Strength that supports my body as I age
  • Consistency over intensity
  • Movement that feels sustainable and empowering
  • Fueling my body with care instead of restriction

Every workout is a choice to invest in my future self. Strength training, cardio, rest days, and nourishment all have a place—and none of them require guilt. Being intentional means listening to my body and respecting what it needs in each season.

Being Intentional With My Sewing

Sewing has always been more than a creative outlet for me—it’s a form of self-expression, problem-solving, and confidence-building. In 2026, I’m being intentional about what I sew and why.

That means:

  • Choosing projects that challenge my skills and support my growth
  • Sewing garments that fit my body and my real life
  • Letting go of perfectionism and embracing progress
  • Creating with joy instead of pressure

Each stitch reminds me that learning takes time, mistakes are part of the process, and finished is better than perfect. Sewing teaches patience—and patience is something I’m intentionally practicing this year.

Putting Myself First Without Apology

One of the biggest shifts for me has been understanding that putting myself first doesn’t mean neglecting others. It means showing up whole. It means protecting my time. It means safeguarding my energy and my creativity. This way, I can give from a place of fullness instead of depletion.

Intentional living means:

  • Saying no without over explaining
  • Resting without feeling like I need to earn it
  • Choosing peace over performance
  • Allowing myself to grow out of what no longer fits

This year, I’m honoring my needs without guilt and trusting myself enough to follow my own rhythm.

What I Hope 2026 Brings

I’m not chasing perfection in 2026. I’m choosing alignment. I’m choosing thoughtful decisions, steady progress, and a life that feels good from the inside out.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that intention changes everything. It shapes how we move, how we create, and how we show up for ourselves day after day.

Here’s to a year of living on purpose.
Here’s to a year of intentional choices.
Here’s to 2026.

Viki Sews Erica Top in Hunter Green Sweater Knit

The Viki Sews Erica Top is such a beautiful balance of comfort and style! I wanted something cozy yet chic for my Fall Capsule Wardrobe Collection, and this pattern was the perfect choice. I used a soft, lightweight sweater knit in a rich hunter green — the color feels so elegant and ideal for the season.

What I love most about the Erica Top is how effortlessly it can transition from casual to polished. I wore it with jeans for a casual dress day in the office and paired it with booties and a matching belt to complete the look. It was comfortable enough for all-day wear but still looked put-together.

I also plan to make a pair of trousers to go along with it for a more elevated, coordinated outfit option. The fit of the top is relaxed yet flattering, and the sweater knit gives it that perfect drape — cozy without being bulky. This pattern was simple to sew, making it a great project for confident beginners looking to add a stylish knit top to their handmade wardrobe.

Pattern: Viki Sews Erica Top
Fabric: Lightweight sweater knit in hunter green
Skill Level: Confident beginner

Until the next make, remember — confidence looks good on you.

💕 Sew Life with RieshaNicolle

Embracing Change: Turning 50 and New Adventures

April was truly a month to be etched in my memory forever! Celebrating my milestone 50th birthday, attending the exhilarating Spring Fling #2 Sewrority Wear Retreat, and embarking on my very first solo adventure—all of these experiences came together to create a whirlwind of love, creativity, and connection, filling my heart to the brim with pure, unadulterated JOY!!!

Turning 50 in Style

This year, I joyfully celebrated my 50th birthday with an overflowing sense of gratitude, profound reflection, and a dazzling touch of sparkle! I wholeheartedly embraced the journey, the invaluable lessons, and the incredible growth that have profoundly shaped me into the vibrant person I am today. There were triumphant laughs, some heartfelt tears, and above all—an enormous appreciation for my past and an exhilarating anticipation for the future. Here’s to passionately stepping into this new chapter with open arms and an exuberant heart!

Sewrority Wear Retreat: Spring Fling Highlights

Shortly after the birthday festivities, I shoved my bags (and a mountain of cut out patterns) into the car and headed off to the airport for the Sewrority Wear Spring Fling #2 Retreat. It was a week/weekend overflowing with more fun and laughter that I could have ever imagined.

  • Late-night sewing sessions fueled by snacks and soul talk
  • Runway moments showcasing our handmade creations – the pajama night was a hit
  • New friendships formed over sewing projects and laughter
  • Learning, growing, and being inspired by so many talented women

It was more than a retreat—it was a celebration of sisterhood, style, and the magic we make when we come together.

Looking Ahead

April reminded me that life is richer when we show up fully—whether it’s celebrating personal milestones or sharing our passion with others. I’m walking into May inspired, energized, and so ready to keep stitching this beautiful life.

Sew Lucky Jar Challenge 2025: Know Me 2052 Misses’ Blouse – Pattern #2

If you’re looking for an effortlessly chic, oversize button-down blouse, Know Me 2052, Misses’ Blouse is a fantastic choice. It was designed by Nikki Brooks of Beauté Jadore. This pattern combines relaxed sophistication with a modern silhouette, making it a staple for any wardrobe.

This design offers a comfortable, loose fit. It features stylish details like a classic collar, button placket, and slightly dropped shoulders. The oversize structure allows for easy movement, making it perfect for casual wear or layering. Whether you’re an advanced beginner or an experienced sewist, this pattern provides a satisfying project with professional-looking results. I choose to layer it with a sleeveless vest and leggings. It looks great without the vest as well.

Fabric Choice: White Cotton

For this version, I chose a crisp white cotton, which enhances the blouse’s classic appeal. Cotton is an excellent choice for this pattern because:

  • It’s breathable and comfortable for all seasons.
  • It holds structure well, showcasing the blouse oversize design.
  • It’s easy to sew and presses beautifully for sharp, clean lines.

Styling Your Finished Blouse

A crisp white button-down is a versatile wardrobe staple! Here are some styling ideas:

  • Pair it with jeans and sneakers for a casual, everyday look.
  • Tuck it into high-waisted trousers for a sophisticated, office-ready outfit.
  • Layer it over a tank top and leggings for an effortless, on-the-go ensemble.

Final Thoughts

The Know Me 2052 Misses’ Blouse is an excellent project for sewists looking to create a stylish and timeless piece. With its oversize silhouette and classic design, it’s a must-have addition to any handmade wardrobe. If you love sewing wardrobe essentials that balance comfort and style, this pattern is a great addition to your collection!

Stay tuned for pattern #3 of the #SewLuckyJarChallenge, Know Me 2100, Misses’ Bomber Jacket.