Needlework Dreams!

The Dream

They say that if you are going to dream, dream big. So many of my dreams have come true, I am asking for help in making this one last dream a reality. I want to have my own needlework shop.  

Now wait.. before you just go dismissing this idea, let me explain that it will not be just a needlework shop. It will be a part of the community. I want it to be a place where people can not only buy their supplies, but can be inspired by others who are sitting and working, right there in the shop. I want it to be a place where the younger generation can learn from the older generation and pass these handwork skills on. I want it to be a place where the skilled artisans of this rural area can display their masterpieces and sell on a consignment basis. 

Will it make a fortune? Probably not. It will, however, be incredibly profitable to those who want the companionship and those who want to learn. I will offer reasonably priced classes in all types of needlework, and will also sell snacks and beverages to our visitors. I do sell a my completed small works online with Etsy and Storenvy shops and we are planning to supplement this with a booth in a local fleamarket this holiday season.

Background

3 years ago, I met the most wonderful man online. We talked off and on for about a year and then one day, he asked me to marry him. We knew we loved each other without even meeting face to face. At that time, I lived and worked in Texas, had a car and a home. Now, I live in a rural part of Finland, an area that has few office jobs available (my background). Even if there were jobs, I don't speak the language well enough yet to work (yes, I am working on that!). In addition, my husband has Asperger's Syndrome and is not able to work a regular job. We get by on his small pension and the support of his family. There isn't much left for shop supplies after we pay our monthly bills! My social security should start in just a couple more years - if it is still around! I do work on my shops every day, trying to add new items on a regular basis. I do stitch for charity projects as well, so it isn't all just a dash for the cash. I am the webmistress for one stitching charity's site, and have been for some 10 years now. As for the stitching, I learned from my Finnish grandmother at the age of 3 over 50 years ago. I now have thousands of charts to use plus the ability to create my own. My first sale on Etsy was of 2 magnets of my own design.

My Plans

Your kind donations will help us in several ways. I do need regular supplies like fabric and threads to create items for my online shops and for the upcoming holiday season. I am running low on some fabrics because I have been using them for panels for The Angel Quilt Project. I also need a sewing machine, and other small appliances. I need to upgrade my design software to the latest version. I would also love to have the down payment for a home where we can have the shop and gathering place. If I can get help with some of my needs, I can start to save for our dream place or look for the perfect shop rental space. I promise I won't waste a cent, but use every dollar raised carefully!

I will be very happy to offer all donors a 20% discount on all purchases in my shops, along with a priority on custom work. I will light candles for you and sing your praises to all who will listen.