We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Rebecca Szabo a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Rebecca thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?
In 1990, my terminally ill mother-in law asked me to make christening outfits from her wedding gown. This inspired me to create and repurpose precious items into keepsakes for family, friends and now dozens of others that I have met through live events, social media and my Etsy shop online.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I have always had a connection with needle & thread! Generations before me sewed and shared their skills with me. I have worked professionally as a seamstress, pieceworker,
sewing machine ambassador, pattern tester & even owned a quilt shop for a few years!
I have now found my creative niche creating custom memory pillows and quilts,
repurposing lamps and furniture and making handmade fabulous accessories (tea
wallets!). I love using unique prints and re-purposing clothing to create my own
fabulous designs!
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
Having lost many family & friends over the years, I know how important it is for some to have something tangible to remind them of their lost loved one. By creating memory pillows and quilts from a loved ones clothing, it is a way to wrap someone in warm memories and bring them comfort as they work through their grieving process.
What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?
I have always been a supporter of shopping local & buying handmade – even when traveling! If we all supported our communities together this way the impact would be tremendous!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.etsy.com/shop/thatssewfabuloustoo
- Instagram: @thatssewfabulous
- Facebook: Thats SEW Fabulous
Image Credits
Photos by Joe & Rebecca Szabo