Mending the sew sew economy with an age old hobby

AUGUSTA, Ga. - In this sew-sew economy many people are starting to pattern themselves after an older generation.

Sewing is nothing new but in this economy, it's taking on a fresh appeal for those whose finances could use a little mending.

"That's my favorite thing to take something you don't like into something you love," Kathy Piazzi said.

In this well worn economy Kathy Piazzi's favorite thing has turned into a lucrative business.

"People are shopping in their own closets to update their own wardrobes because nobody has the money for clothes," Piazzi said.

While other businesses have suffered or failed Piazzi's Augusta sewing shop Hattie Anne's remained stable as customers look to update what they already have rather than head to the mall.

"I recently took a jacket that wasn't very beautiful with long sleeves. Made it 3 ¼
length, tapered in the back some buttons on the front. Gave it a whole new look," Piazzi said.

It's not just repairs and sprucing up many people have decided in this economy to take a seat behind the sewing machine and do it themselves.

"I'm just beginning and it's very addictive," beginner sewer, Jessica Galpin, said.

Galpin has decided to try her hand at stitches and seams as her three children continue to grow up and out of their clothes.

"You can make outfits so much cheaper and designed individually for your children and at less money than you would at a retail store," Galpin said.

"Especially kids clothes you can make all the pretty stuff you see out there for the fraction of the cost," Cathy Alva.

Alva is the manager at Jeff's Sewing and Vacuum Center in Martinez.

"More people taking classes and more people buying sewing machines," Alva said.

Alva says that's because people still want to feel good about themselves no matter how ripped or ragged the financial situation gets.

"All of us like new things, fresh things but we can't always afford it. This is a way to get that and it not be so expensive,"

It's not always cheaper to spruce up your items, so do some research to see if it's the best deal.

Also if you're learning to sew remember there are some initial costs involved - such as purchasing your machine and supplies.

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