MONEY helps too, what does she do for her "major" job? I have the same taste, mostly (have Tiffany lamps but had to take down beaded curtains as they ate them....etc brocaded hangings...)sigh, like a Pre Raphaelite stunner she is like a painting in a gallery on a rainy day, you sit or stand and close your eyes and try to get into it, another land, or time or place huh Namaste, Zoe Just went to tidy a drawer- I had a Dior dress,a photo of one obviously and have never seen anything like it and suddenly the proverbial light bulb went on- ask the lovely and talented Christine! I got to speculating (I am a messy person) as to what Christine's college dorm was like...
People think im a "plant lady". They think I love plants and have this great green thumb. Im just really frugal and one thing most people will throw away or give starts to freely are plants which makes them very cheap filler decor. I couldn't keep anything alive for years... and then I actually tried harder to and now I have a ton of plants. I find myself joining gardening groups because I still have tons of questions and tons of issues they help me solve. Those pages make me realize that I am in no way a plant person....I have to make myself do it.
Does he have a channel? My husband is an engineer and excellent at repairing old and new things, but he's a bit nervous to tackle a few vintage machines we've purchased. If he does have a channel (or could point us in a direction), that would be amazing!
Christine: "I do not know what it is with cats and sewing materials, but based on all of their behaviour it seems like the manufacturers of fabrics are lacing their products with..." Me: "Catnip!" Christine: "...crack cocaine." *oh... I see*
"Oh, I'm only self-taught, not a pro at all" *sews/embroiders incredibly fashionable aprons you would wear for a night out* *sews her own clothes* *bakes unbelievable cakes* *takes apart, redesigns and puts back together a pull-out couch* *recreates Winchester Mystery House with 500 lbs of gingerbread* *refurbishes whole house* *in the meantime poses for photoshoots as Nigella-Lawson-meets-Lovecraft pinup* Sure, everybody here is complaining of such a despicable lack of professionalism ;P
She did say in an interview somewhere she was fired as a Secretary even after trying really hard. Guess her boss didn't like bats on that half fat capichino low foam. Genius takes time to develop. Even Einstein was only a mediocre patent clerk and Da Vinci was still just a tag along with a famous archichect when he was 40. Glad she found her true gift. Thank you so much for sharing.
Fun fact: adding the little extra bits is called piecing, and it's super common in extant historical garments because fabric was narrower and super expensive! Also, I adore this! I've been wanting to make an apron for myself, this is the perfect project to base it on!
My sweet little 89 year old momma died 3 weeks ago today. It's wonderful that you made that gift for the girl who lost her momma, little gifts of love really help so much.
Okay, weird. This came up right as I was about to search for apron-sewing tips. My mom is also my best friend, and she recently became the proud owner of a food truck. Unique and feminine aprons are her signature - she makes all of her employees wear them from her collection while working - and one of her employees asked me to help her make a custom one for Christmas. This is such a bizarrely and perfectly timed video - thank you for sharing!
Make a tough one out of denim, duck cloth or even leather. Make it long and add a couple of pockets. You could wear it while doing any woodworking/repairs around the house,etc. I know a guy whose wife made a strong denim apron for him with pockets and a couple of spots to hook tools on. He never thought he'd use it but now says it's fantastic.
“A homemade look”, Christine this is 100% couture! , you’re an absolute genius and my hero! I admire you so incredibly much and hope one day I can create things as perfect as your creations! Also, your cats are everything! 😍🥰
Handsewing is so relaxing. You should check out Bernadette Banner, she does historical sewing. Everything is handsewn. I think the only time I saw her sew on a machine was when it was used for the period. It wasn't an electrical sewing machine.
Using a thimble on your middle finger while handsewing will save your fingers the pain because the thimble takes all the force of pushing the needle through the fabric :) The aprons are very lovely but I am LIVING for those coffin boxes 😲😭🦇
Before I started sewing I thought the thimble went on the finger that could get poked when you push it through... then I was like why does my middle finger hurt :’(
@death to a delicate ghoul THANK YOU!!!! What wonderful information that totally changed my life! You, dear person, I owe you a huge thanks. THANK YOOOU!
If you´re doing a lot of hand sewing or embroidery, make leather thimbles! I have one for my 3 active fingers and it saves my poor fingies from the burning pain from hours of embroidering.
This video almost made me cry. Not just because of the beautiful art you created, but my mother taught me how to sew. I lost her last month and sewing is the one thing that makes me feel closer to her. She sent me my grandmother's apron patterns from the 40's and 50's so the design of this apron is very familiar. Funny enough my mom sold Singer machines when I was a kid. Thank you so much for this.
I really enjoyed your sewing lesson and your sewing methods. But, my absolute favorite thing of this whole video are your CATS, lol. They were so (sew) entertaining that I couldn't stop giggling. Your cats are such a delight to watch. Your apron turned out so beautiful and very, very well done! Beautiful color too.
I have the same "problem" that whenever I sew something my cats would sit on the fabric or playing on the fabric. So I started to lay out decoy fabrics, so they would sit on them while I could work with the fabric I need xD
My fat cat likes laying on paper shopping bags, so I just set out a few when I am trying to work on something. My kitten, however, is too enamored with chasing the blades of my scissors or my sewing thread to fall for such a ruse.
For cheap fabric I hit up thrift stores for sheets. I look for 100% cotton but get what u want. This is how I make huge skirts for a couple of dollars. Also makes great practice fabric.
I work at a retail fabric store and can confirm this is how I learned, my manager learned, and most the lovely people who come in learn. It’s brilliant. I was about to comment this 😄 glad you beat me to it.
I’m 36, and I’ve been sewing ever since I was 13. My mom sewed, her mom did as well. My grandma had over 30 grand children before she died, but I was the only one who sewed, so one day when I was 16 years old, she gave me her antique iron Pfaff sewing machine. She said she wanted me to take it before anyone else had a chance to grab it when she passed away. She passed away about eight years after that, and sure enough, my aunt was looking for that machine lol. I don’t use that one, I keep it strictly as a decorative piece in my sewing room. But I do have three other machines, and I use them all. Two of them were given to me. One came from my mother, the other came from my ex-husband‘s grandmother, and the third one came from Goodwill. It is vintage and all metal, it was only $16 and it came with its case, user manual, everything...and looks as though it was never used! I think it’s from the 1950s or 60s. Anyway, Christine, you are so great at this! It’s amazing you’ve only been doing it for 10 years and you are self taught! You give attention to detail and all of your work is very tidy… I’m actually taking pointers from you! My grandma would be very impressed by you, she was always very picky about her projects being perfect. I still have and use the sewing shears that my mom gave me when I learned how to sew when I was a kid, and I’ve never had to sharpen them. The other day, I was at Walmart (ugh)… And they had this really pretty cast metal pair of sewing shears with gold handles for $12, and I had to have them just because of how they looked. Turns out… They cut extremely well and I love them!
I was just thinking to myself how badly I need a new Apron and 5 mins later this pops up! the fact that its GOTH just makes it that much more satisfying!!
If you ever want some beautiful goth pattern fabric, look up Alexander Henry. I made myself a gorgeous case for my tablet using a design called "after dark". I love it.
Christine, you are truly one of a kind! Although I know nothing about sewing(or baking, or building furnitures from scratch) I find your videos so relaxing and healing! Something interesting I noticed, your voice cracks sometimes, and I Love it! I have never known anyone who can make cracked voice so elegant and graceful. Please never stop posting! ♥️
Ah, I work at a fabric store and the other day I wa trying to help someone grab fabric for this, i thought it was so darling and then it pops up in my recommended yay
Suggestion; for fabric, estate sales, flea markets (your in the vicinity of the Rose bowl?)and thrift stores. I have been blown away over the years by what I have found and deconstructing clothing is the best way to learn how a garment is constructed.
Watched this again after 4 months and think I love it even more . My mind is running rampant with ideas for my own version of your creation . The world needs more Christine ❣
More beginner tips: Buy a second-hand machine! They're inexpensive and usually work just fine. Buy an older machine, as in not digital. If something breaks, you can fix it yourself. If thrift shops are cheap near you, check their fabric section or sheets for making wearable muslins (mockups). Also, that old lace! Ahh! Lucky you! It isn't made that way anymore, literally. There are only a few people who still make lace and it's expensive (rightly so).
I love sheets for sewing, but do be careful. Woven cotton are the easiest to work with. Be careful of the really shiny silky smooth sheets, the weave tends to be very loose causing your cut pieces to distort if you look at them wrong.
@Deborah McLaughlin Thanks for that tip! It’s my dream to one day own one, but I seriously doubt I could ever get one at that price, even secondhand. Sigh. A girl can dream! 😊
I have a closet full of leftovers from leather jackets that I purchased at second hand stores. I cut them up and make backpacks, tote bags, wallets, purses, fanny packs and my favorite, concealed carry holsters for myself. I made a smashing, very masculine Christmas stocking for my adult son.
I love my mother, she is the BEST mother and so much like you. You remind me of her, even the way you look, your taste, interests and talents and clear compassion and natural, ladylike elegance. I am hoping to make one of these for her and have the middle section say either "Mama" or "Mother," just need to purchase the pattern from your site :) Much love!
There might be a lot of people in this world who will never understand the pure joy and rush of finding a bag full of victorian lace at an estate sale for a dollar. I feel truly sad for those people and lucky that I belong to the group who does.
You put so much love into what you create! It was so very generous of you to make one for Mandy as well. It is not easy to loose a parent. I lost my mom only a few months ago unexpectedly and it has not been easy at all. But doing something kind for someone else is very therapeutic!
I love what you're doing with these videos. I've always been a bit ADHD with my crafting and projects, jumping from baking to sewing, to making chain maille and jewelry, to pulling together Halloween props, and its lovely to see someone with a similar aesthetic doing all manner of projects. I loved your Netflix series and look forward to more of this video series!!
Now all Mandy and Rachel need is an apron for their apron. They would not want to get that masterpiece of an apron dirty with messy cooking substances.
I’m in awe of you. My mom and I are best friends as well, so for you to make an apron for this girl who lost her mother is extremely touching and a labor of love. You did an excellent job!
I am THRILLED to hear you are going to do more sewing tutorials!! I'm a very visual learner and get so much useful information from your videos. You're the best!
For all the beautiful sewing you do id recommend a bernina sewing machine! They are more on the expensive side but they are durable, I am a costume designer and I work as a student stitcher in a costume shop at my school and we use berninas, we do a lot of period shows and these machines have always been really reliable 😊
@stephanie castro They are expensive. I use an older Janome machine, as they are sturdy and incredibly reliable. They’re also much less expensive. For my lightweight projects, I have a cheaper digital Janome machine with Hello Kitty branding. I love it as well, but it’s harder to thread and it can jam. Berninas are hard to beat though. In my day (back when dinosaurs roamed the earth), Husqvarna made incredible machines. I think Singer bought them, and now they’re... Singer. 😕
Dear Christine, I just cannot stop thinking how multitalented you are...this blows my mind...what you do and your skills are amazing!!! Each time I look at a video from you I never know what to expect and each time I am so surprised to notice how everything seems so easy for you. Thank you so much for sharing your creations with us, you are truly an inspiration, Merci beaucoup from France 🇫🇷 Maryline
Love how it turned out! And the special gift and boxes. Those of us who are tormented for not having our wonderful mothers anymore, really appreciate your kindness shown here. Camera work and music is stellar. Maybe equally creative hubby can make us some good snowy videos on the side. He would be perfect for it.
Well, you have impressed me yet again! Sewing from scratch like that (without any pre-existing patterns) is not an easy thing for sure. You did an amazing job! I had taught myself to sew at a young age. Once in middle school and high school I started taking classes to learn the "proper" techniques. Then I eventually went to college for it and now it's my career and I couldn't be happier! A couple tips/opinions for anyone willing to listen: singer machines are great I feel for the beginners. But I always found them to not last long. I myself probably went though about 4 of them. Though the industrial singer machines are pretty good. I now use a domestic brother machine for home and personal projects and domestic and industrial berninas at my place of work. Berninas are definitely a lot more reliable and heavy duty. Definitely have a longer life span than a domestic singer for sure. Another machine I've used in the past that I liked were pfaffs. They're great for both the beginner and the seasoned stitcher, though they can be a little temperamental at times. As for the pens you use, I definitely suggest getting some iron off pens/highlighters! My professor introduced them to me while in college and they changed my life! You can get them on amazon for pretty cheap. And you wont need to wait for fabric to dry or risk getting water stains. And one of the great things about the iron off pens is that if you remove a line by accident, just stick the fabric in the freezer for 5 minutes and the line will return! Crazy.
Out of the four machines I have, the brother is my absolute favorite! That’s the one my mom gave me when she taught me how to sew. I don’t use the antique Pfaff that my grandma gave me because I keep it as decor. I’m so sentimental towards it that it’s like I refuse to send it off to someone for maintenance, so I just don’t use it ☹️
I lost my mom a few year’s ago. She was my mentor and most of all my best friend! I couldn’t imagine my life without her! She was only 69 when she passed in 2016.I miss her so much!! Cherish every moment you have with the people you love most. She taught me how to sew, knit and embroider when I was 10. I have been sewing on and off for many years. We had a Singer machine that folded into the built in working table. I think my grandmother purchased it in the 50’s?!? It actually has held up until last year when it finally broke and wasn’t repairable. I bought a new Singer because the old one was so sturdy... but they don’t make them like they used to! My passion now is knitting! Another extremely expensive craft! Anyway, I love your podcasts and look forward to seeing more of your episodes in the future.
As someone that is a self-taught seer and very passionate about aprons, from all eras. I have so enjoyed this video. I absolutely love the bat embroidery. So feminine with a touch of Victorian darkness. 👏👏👏 Bravo!
Christine you have an amazing gift for being so incredibly versatile in all that you create with an impeccable eye for detail! These aprons are stunning and the box that you made to put them in are beautiful! A true artist indeed! 💕❤🦇❤💕
I need this and never knew it!! Was just thinking I should sew myself a new apron today while making dinner. This is so much better than what I was thinking.
Shall I just say I fell in love with you the moment I saw your Netflix show. A talented person who self-taught herself a lot of things inspires me the most. PS: I recently purchased my first sewing machine. I became a Bernina guy. ;)
I think what you did for Mandy, the lady who lost her mother, was very sweet and kind; I know we are in a different world now with COVID-19 and unfortunately for me and my family, we lost my mom to this deadly virus on July 10th; and today August 21, we laid her to rest along with her brother (my uncle, who passed away in 2018, just 3 days shy of my moms 75th birthday AND 30-minutes after her visit with him) and my sister Kimm (who died in 2015 after a 6yr battle with breast cancer); so it's been a very painful time. ALL were laid to rest Friday.....Why am I telling you this, because you've shown a heart of love and understanding. 🤍💜 I have my moms sewing machine, her sewing basket, her moms sewing basket and her moms (my great-grandmothers) sewing supplies!!! I feel truly blessed to have been given these things long before my mom passed. I learned to sew by my mom and my grandmother and I never lost the passion to sew. Your work is amazing and I can't wait to see more. Thank you for sharing and for these videos. There is hope sprinkled inside this video.🤍💛 P.S. (the kitties and your pup are the Star ✨of your show..LOL. They are adorable and I'm so sorry you lost your other kitties)💔🤍
Yes! Bring on the cocktail dress tutorials!!!! Tip for saving money on fabric - the thrift store is a great source. There are lots of old garments and occasionally curtains made of interesting, even luxurious fabrics. Ps, a good seam ripper will be your best friend if you go this route! I've made some lovely pieces this way
I'm so happy I found your channel as not just the end result but the fact that you take your time and don't speed up the small sewing details is wonderful.
I am a huge multi-tasker. I can't usually just watch something and only do that, so often I'll set up some youtube videos and maybe sew, maybe paint or draw, anything while watching. But with you I cannot do something else. I have to put my sole attention to watching this because it's so wonderfully produced! I know I will have to work harder at my sewing/painting/whatevering later but right now I have to put my full attention to this. Thank you Christine:)
As always your creativity is beyond inspiring! And not to downplay my love for you and your crafts, but your fur babies are just the little balls of fluffy sunshine my days need! Thanks for always including them!
I love to sew. I sew like you do. I have been sewing for about 20 years. But not seriously until 15 years ago when I had my son. I like to create my own patterns from the clothes that I already own. Patterns are very expensive and sizing is hard. I love this apron and I will be making one. I have a sheet that is going to be the perfect material for it. I absolutely love your videos and miss you show on Netflix. But I am so glad that you have chosen to go this route so we are not left without your talent and amazing skills. Can't wait to see what you do next.
Ugh. Isn't she just THE BEST?! I normally think DIY is so boring to watch since I don't do DIY...but her videos are so simply interesting as is...and I wanna be reincarnated as her cat 😸
Small observation, but I really like how Christine doesn't shoo away her pets while she's working. She kinda just moves them out of the way of what she's doing. It's kinda like they're involved in the project too. It could just be for the video but I still think it's sweet. 😊
Your've given me an idea on how to use the decorative stitches on my sewing machines. Never used them before and had a bit of a creative block for next sewing project but this helped. Beautiful apron!
this is coming from a man, its stunning even down to the box, your creativity has no bounds . I get it all the work and imagination . have a lovely day simon
I own a 1960s pink "Atlas" sewing machine (okay two). They are divine and I could see you using one for display and to sew with. The never need to be binned for a broken plastic gear! I HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend a Singer 401A which came in tan/brown but have amazing little round knobs for stitch selection. So perfect. I have seen them re-painted in amazing pinks and blues. Vintage sewing machines can be very pleasing to look at and I love the all-metal ones. pre-1965
I can't believe they recommended you in my feed!! I loved your Halloween special! I was so hoping they added a season two this year. What luck finding you!! So happy!
Step 1: take measurement
Step 2: apply measurements to fabric
Step 3: move cat
Step 4:move other cat
Step 5: cut around cats
1k likes and no comments? That’s insane
@barondeficit1081 🙏 thank you
@ No, thank *you* for sticking around after 5 years ! I’m glad I could get your attention back to this masterpiece of a video
Legit the only content creator that makes me want to actually use patreon. Such incredible talents.
@Melissa McMillan Indeed, feel the same way ^^
I recently caved and started supporting on Patreon, you will NOT regret it
@@Aplusinskal cç.
Step one: have impeccable taste, and unrivaled talent
Caitasaurus Rex truth!
And cat familiars.
MONEY helps too, what does she do for her "major" job? I have the same taste, mostly (have Tiffany lamps but had to take down beaded curtains as they ate them....etc brocaded hangings...)sigh, like a Pre Raphaelite stunner she is like a painting in a gallery on a rainy day, you sit or stand and close your eyes and try to get into it, another land, or time or place huh Namaste, Zoe Just went to tidy a drawer- I had a Dior dress,a photo of one obviously and have never seen anything like it and suddenly the proverbial light bulb went on- ask the lovely and talented Christine! I got to speculating (I am a messy person) as to what Christine's college dorm was like...
People think im a "plant lady". They think I love plants and have this great green thumb. Im just really frugal and one thing most people will throw away or give starts to freely are plants which makes them very cheap filler decor. I couldn't keep anything alive for years... and then I actually tried harder to and now I have a ton of plants. I find myself joining gardening groups because I still have tons of questions and tons of issues they help me solve. Those pages make me realize that I am in no way a plant person....I have to make myself do it.
Step two: remove cats
Something I never thought I'd think is, "that's an absolutely beautiful seam ripper."
Christine, my husband repairs vintage sewing machines. We can hook you up with an awesome old metal one that'll never die.
Oh man I hope this happens 😍
Do you sell parts for 1906 singer model 27 sewing machines?
Does he have a channel? My husband is an engineer and excellent at repairing old and new things, but he's a bit nervous to tackle a few vintage machines we've purchased. If he does have a channel (or could point us in a direction), that would be amazing!
bump! let's hope Cristine sees this message. Big YTubers usually don't answer to email since they get so much, but I guess you can also try DMing. ^^
I have 2 vintage machines, they are the bomb!
She's the kind of person it would be wonderful just to talk to and be friends with. The amount of creativity is incredible.
Christine: "I do not know what it is with cats and sewing materials, but based on all of their behaviour it seems like the manufacturers of fabrics are lacing their products with..."
Me: "Catnip!"
Christine: "...crack cocaine."
*oh... I see*
Sugar Wolff I thought the same! 🤣🤣🤣
Me too! 😀
Cat cocaine 🐱
Yes! She went in a different direction than I thought she would! 🤣🤣🤣
i was expecting a very wholesome end to that phrase, but just then...
Christine McConnell is like a unique disney princess mixed with gothic vibes 🖤
"Oh, I'm only self-taught, not a pro at all"
*sews/embroiders incredibly fashionable aprons you would wear for a night out*
*sews her own clothes*
*bakes unbelievable cakes*
*takes apart, redesigns and puts back together a pull-out couch*
*recreates Winchester Mystery House with 500 lbs of gingerbread*
*refurbishes whole house*
*in the meantime poses for photoshoots as Nigella-Lawson-meets-Lovecraft pinup*
Sure, everybody here is complaining of such a despicable lack of professionalism ;P
She never said she didn't lack technique. She said she wasn't down with the lingo! And may do things differently to someone who is a "professional".
@@jcaylalove8713 I probably used the wrong word - amended now.
She’s amazing. I don’t understand how she doesn’t have a billion followers.
@@kikicamacho6761 share her channel, spread the word
She did say in an interview somewhere she was fired as a Secretary even after trying really hard. Guess her boss didn't like bats on that half fat capichino low foam. Genius takes time to develop. Even Einstein was only a mediocre patent clerk and Da Vinci was still just a tag along with a famous archichect when he was 40. Glad she found her true gift. Thank you so much for sharing.
Fun fact: adding the little extra bits is called piecing, and it's super common in extant historical garments because fabric was narrower and super expensive!
Also, I adore this! I've been wanting to make an apron for myself, this is the perfect project to base it on!
Martha Stuart and tim burton daughter, I really like her
So true😉
Cristi Bajandas
True, but I prefer the term “love child” lol.
Morticia Addam's sister
so true
Elvira and Tim Burtons daughter.
My sweet little 89 year old momma died 3 weeks ago today. It's wonderful that you made that gift for the girl who lost her momma, little gifts of love really help so much.
I like to think that the camera man is this ghost friend who lives in her house 👻
He's played by her real life husband.
@@enminghee2926 really?!? That's sooo cool!!
Lol you mean the ghost of her husband.
When she lets him out of his cage, that is.
Or out if the basement...
Okay, weird. This came up right as I was about to search for apron-sewing tips. My mom is also my best friend, and she recently became the proud owner of a food truck. Unique and feminine aprons are her signature - she makes all of her employees wear them from her collection while working - and one of her employees asked me to help her make a custom one for Christmas. This is such a bizarrely and perfectly timed video - thank you for sharing!
I’m a dude and have no interest in making an apron, but anything Christine does, I am transfixed.
Make a tough one out of denim, duck cloth or even leather. Make it long and add a couple of pockets. You could wear it while doing any woodworking/repairs around the house,etc. I know a guy whose wife made a strong denim apron for him with pockets and a couple of spots to hook tools on. He never thought he'd use it but now says it's fantastic.
Well it helps that she is super freaking hot 🔥but yer, it's sort of mesmerising hey?
Mully I’m here with you Brother!
cac mom Pictures!!!
Suuuuure..lol
She seems to be just a genuinely super nice person. It feels like you are watching your best friend sending you a video from home.
I love how she casually just relocates the cat whenever she needs to.
I love that the cats allow themselves to be relocated without taking the materials with them or shredding them to pieces.
@@felicitygee381 I know, right. How can we train our own to be these mystical, well-behaved, fairy kitties.
“A homemade look”, Christine this is 100% couture! , you’re an absolute genius and my hero! I admire you so incredibly much and hope one day I can create things as perfect as your creations! Also, your cats are everything! 😍🥰
Let’s be real here, we come for the crafts but stay for the adorable animal content
Wow. Everything she does is with such poise and grace. It is so inspiring to slow down and do things that take time, as it is truly a lost art.
Christine: Let's make an apron!
Her animals: Oh no, absolutely not.
theprivateeye the cats: ooh! fun blanket time!
I love how her animals are a part of everything that she does. Great video What an amazing life
The mind of Christine McConnell is a magical place, indeed.
lets start simple:
creates the most eloquent and exquisite apron Ive ever laided my eyes on
The amount of detail and skill this woman has is incredible! Who inspires me... you do
Christine: "I will be making things like cocktail dresses, evening gowns, all sorts of really fun things" me: *breathes in dramatically* oh fok :333
who needs fabric weights when you have cats
My fabric weights tangle and snag the fabric, and therefore are banished from the craft room.
i love how patient she always is with all of her little companions who just want to spend time at her side c:
I think you have one of the most fascinating brains ever
I’ve been sewing for over 50 years and my projects aren’t this beautiful. Very well done.
30 years here, and ...same
Handsewing is so relaxing. You should check out Bernadette Banner, she does historical sewing. Everything is handsewn.
I think the only time I saw her sew on a machine was when it was used for the period. It wasn't an electrical sewing machine.
She uses an 1890s handcranked Singer.
Lisa M I know. I’ve watched all her videos. She’s such a fantastic talent.
Oh I adore her!
Thanks for the channel tip! I love handsewing
LOVE Bernadette Banner! ❤️
Those pets are the purest bundles of cuteness in the world.
I miss your show on Netflix.
I almost like this series better! I only wish Rose and the others would show up here.
Yeah I could watch 100 episodes of that it was so fun
Ohh I want both! Cannot get enough of how amazing she is.
Using a thimble on your middle finger while handsewing will save your fingers the pain because the thimble takes all the force of pushing the needle through the fabric :)
The aprons are very lovely but I am LIVING for those coffin boxes 😲😭🦇
Before I started sewing I thought the thimble went on the finger that could get poked when you push it through... then I was like why does my middle finger hurt :’(
@death to a delicate ghoul THANK YOU!!!! What wonderful information that totally changed my life! You, dear person, I owe you a huge thanks. THANK YOOOU!
If you´re doing a lot of hand sewing or embroidery, make leather thimbles! I have one for my 3 active fingers and it saves my poor fingies from the burning pain from hours of embroidering.
Send some to Christine
I came to say this too. They can be made easily from leather :) I plan to make one in the next day or so before I start working on my corset
Yes! Bernadette Banner has a great video on how to make one and I have a feeling her aesthetic would be appreciated by many of Christines fans too.
This video almost made me cry. Not just because of the beautiful art you created, but my mother taught me how to sew. I lost her last month and sewing is the one thing that makes me feel closer to her. She sent me my grandmother's apron patterns from the 40's and 50's so the design of this apron is very familiar. Funny enough my mom sold Singer machines when I was a kid. Thank you so much for this.
I really enjoyed your sewing lesson and your sewing methods. But, my absolute favorite thing of this whole video are your CATS, lol. They were so (sew) entertaining that I couldn't stop giggling. Your cats are such a delight to watch.
Your apron turned out so beautiful and very, very well done! Beautiful color too.
I have the same "problem" that whenever I sew something my cats would sit on the fabric or playing on the fabric. So I started to lay out decoy fabrics, so they would sit on them while I could work with the fabric I need xD
Decoy fabrics ... 😆
Also decoy paperwork and decoy keyboards. I just bought a keyboard for $1 at the thrift store.
My fat cat likes laying on paper shopping bags, so I just set out a few when I am trying to work on something. My kitten, however, is too enamored with chasing the blades of my scissors or my sewing thread to fall for such a ruse.
This is GENIUS!! 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
For cheap fabric I hit up thrift stores for sheets. I look for 100% cotton but get what u want. This is how I make huge skirts for a couple of dollars. Also makes great practice fabric.
Thrift stores are great. I used sheets for linings and just repurposed two beautiful pattern skirts to purse body bags.
That is such a great idea! And you're inadvertently saving the planet
Thinking of covering a wall with fabric from sheets or a king size quilt cover.
I work at a retail fabric store and can confirm this is how I learned, my manager learned, and most the lovely people who come in learn. It’s brilliant. I was about to comment this 😄 glad you beat me to it.
I’m 36, and I’ve been sewing ever since I was 13. My mom sewed, her mom did as well. My grandma had over 30 grand children before she died, but I was the only one who sewed, so one day when I was 16 years old, she gave me her antique iron Pfaff sewing machine. She said she wanted me to take it before anyone else had a chance to grab it when she passed away. She passed away about eight years after that, and sure enough, my aunt was looking for that machine lol. I don’t use that one, I keep it strictly as a decorative piece in my sewing room. But I do have three other machines, and I use them all. Two of them were given to me. One came from my mother, the other came from my ex-husband‘s grandmother, and the third one came from Goodwill. It is vintage and all metal, it was only $16 and it came with its case, user manual, everything...and looks as though it was never used! I think it’s from the 1950s or 60s. Anyway, Christine, you are so great at this! It’s amazing you’ve only been doing it for 10 years and you are self taught! You give attention to detail and all of your work is very tidy… I’m actually taking pointers from you! My grandma would be very impressed by you, she was always very picky about her projects being perfect. I still have and use the sewing shears that my mom gave me when I learned how to sew when I was a kid, and I’ve never had to sharpen them. The other day, I was at Walmart (ugh)… And they had this really pretty cast metal pair of sewing shears with gold handles for $12, and I had to have them just because of how they looked. Turns out… They cut extremely well and I love them!
I was just thinking to myself how badly I need a new Apron and 5 mins later this pops up! the fact that its GOTH just makes it that much more satisfying!!
I was literally googling aprons yesterday!! :D
If you ever want some beautiful goth pattern fabric, look up Alexander Henry. I made myself a gorgeous case for my tablet using a design called "after dark". I love it.
Draggonny may the Dark Lord Cthulhu bless you for this
I don't know who you are but THE AESTHETIC OF THAT INTRO WAS SO INTENSE AND AMAZING WHAT
The editing on this is so beautiful! The rosy glow to match the fabric, the kitten purrs, the anti-gravity snow. All fantastic details!
I LOVE watching Christine McConnell 😍 She’s so relaxing and beautiful ❤️
Christine, you are truly one of a kind! Although I know nothing about sewing(or baking, or building furnitures from scratch) I find your videos so relaxing and healing! Something interesting I noticed, your voice cracks sometimes, and I Love it! I have never known anyone who can make cracked voice so elegant and graceful. Please never stop posting! ♥️
Ah, I work at a fabric store and the other day I wa trying to help someone grab fabric for this, i thought it was so darling and then it pops up in my recommended yay
This made me feel so much better about my own sewing skills and how much of a self-taught amateur I am.
Sending love to Mandy and Rachel , may they enjoy their treasures ...my favorite part was where the snowflakes outside "fell" up :)
Suggestion; for fabric, estate sales, flea markets (your in the vicinity of the Rose bowl?)and thrift stores. I have been blown away over the years by what I have found and deconstructing clothing is the best way to learn how a garment is constructed.
Watched this again after 4 months and think I love it even more . My mind is running rampant with ideas for my own version of your creation .
The world needs more Christine ❣
More beginner tips:
Buy a second-hand machine! They're inexpensive and usually work just fine.
Buy an older machine, as in not digital. If something breaks, you can fix it yourself.
If thrift shops are cheap near you, check their fabric section or sheets for making wearable muslins (mockups).
Also, that old lace! Ahh! Lucky you! It isn't made that way anymore, literally. There are only a few people who still make lace and it's expensive (rightly so).
That's great advice! Thank you so much.
I love sheets for sewing, but do be careful. Woven cotton are the easiest to work with. Be careful of the really shiny silky smooth sheets, the weave tends to be very loose causing your cut pieces to distort if you look at them wrong.
Facebook marketplace. I bought a Bernina for $150.
@Deborah McLaughlin Thanks for that tip! It’s my dream to one day own one, but I seriously doubt I could ever get one at that price, even secondhand.
Sigh. A girl can dream! 😊
I have a closet full of leftovers from leather jackets that I purchased at second hand stores. I cut them up and make backpacks, tote bags, wallets, purses, fanny packs and my favorite, concealed carry holsters for myself. I made a smashing, very masculine Christmas stocking for my adult son.
I love my mother, she is the BEST mother and so much like you. You remind me of her, even the way you look, your taste, interests and talents and clear compassion and natural, ladylike elegance. I am hoping to make one of these for her and have the middle section say either "Mama" or "Mother," just need to purchase the pattern from your site :) Much love!
There might be a lot of people in this world who will never understand the pure joy and rush of finding a bag full of victorian lace at an estate sale for a dollar. I feel truly sad for those people and lucky that I belong to the group who does.
I just found this channel and im obsessed! the cats, the dim lighting, the incredible craftmanship. wow.
I just ordered a Singer sewing machine yesterday. Making a long Furbie for my goth teenage daughter. My mom my best friend as well.
You put so much love into what you create! It was so very generous of you to make one for Mandy as well. It is not easy to loose a parent. I lost my mom only a few months ago unexpectedly and it has not been easy at all. But doing something kind for someone else is very therapeutic!
I love what you're doing with these videos. I've always been a bit ADHD with my crafting and projects, jumping from baking to sewing, to making chain maille and jewelry, to pulling together Halloween props, and its lovely to see someone with a similar aesthetic doing all manner of projects. I loved your Netflix series and look forward to more of this video series!!
You’re so humble. That’s what I find so fantastic about you and easy to be a fan.
I’m always left breathless after each video of Christine’s masterful creations!!
Now all Mandy and Rachel need is an apron for their apron. They would not want to get that masterpiece of an apron dirty with messy cooking substances.
I’m in awe of you. My mom and I are best friends as well, so for you to make an apron for this girl who lost her mother is extremely touching and a labor of love. You did an excellent job!
I am THRILLED to hear you are going to do more sewing tutorials!! I'm a very visual learner and get so much useful information from your videos. You're the best!
For all the beautiful sewing you do id recommend a bernina sewing machine! They are more on the expensive side but they are durable, I am a costume designer and I work as a student stitcher in a costume shop at my school and we use berninas, we do a lot of period shows and these machines have always been really reliable 😊
@stephanie castro They are expensive. I use an older Janome machine, as they are sturdy and incredibly reliable. They’re also much less expensive. For my lightweight projects, I have a cheaper digital Janome machine with Hello Kitty branding. I love it as well, but it’s harder to thread and it can jam. Berninas are hard to beat though. In my day (back when dinosaurs roamed the earth), Husqvarna made incredible machines. I think Singer bought them, and now they’re... Singer. 😕
Damn rachel won that over thinking of a four word phrase? Lucky girl!! Overcompensated doesn't even begin to cover it. Christine is an angel
Well...I could watch this over and over all day and never get tired. The cutting, the painting, the embroidery, the sewing...my OCD is SO HAPPY! lol
Oh my GOSH. This is amazing. More sewing please. This is inspiring on so many levels
Dear Christine,
I just cannot stop thinking how multitalented you are...this blows my mind...what you do and your skills are amazing!!!
Each time I look at a video from you I never know what to expect and each time I am so surprised to notice how everything seems so easy for you.
Thank you so much for sharing your creations with us, you are truly an inspiration,
Merci beaucoup from France 🇫🇷
Maryline
I would love to see you make something like the dress you’re wearing I can’t wait for more of these!
Love how it turned out! And the special gift and boxes. Those of us who are tormented for not having our wonderful mothers anymore, really appreciate your kindness shown here. Camera work and music is stellar. Maybe equally creative hubby can make us some good snowy videos on the side. He would be perfect for it.
Christine, i found skull straight pins on amazon! They're mostly used in voodoo spells. But im sure you could make them work for sewing as well 🤗
:D
🤣
Well, you have impressed me yet again! Sewing from scratch like that (without any pre-existing patterns) is not an easy thing for sure. You did an amazing job! I had taught myself to sew at a young age. Once in middle school and high school I started taking classes to learn the "proper" techniques. Then I eventually went to college for it and now it's my career and I couldn't be happier!
A couple tips/opinions for anyone willing to listen: singer machines are great I feel for the beginners. But I always found them to not last long. I myself probably went though about 4 of them. Though the industrial singer machines are pretty good. I now use a domestic brother machine for home and personal projects and domestic and industrial berninas at my place of work. Berninas are definitely a lot more reliable and heavy duty. Definitely have a longer life span than a domestic singer for sure. Another machine I've used in the past that I liked were pfaffs. They're great for both the beginner and the seasoned stitcher, though they can be a little temperamental at times.
As for the pens you use, I definitely suggest getting some iron off pens/highlighters! My professor introduced them to me while in college and they changed my life! You can get them on amazon for pretty cheap. And you wont need to wait for fabric to dry or risk getting water stains. And one of the great things about the iron off pens is that if you remove a line by accident, just stick the fabric in the freezer for 5 minutes and the line will return! Crazy.
Out of the four machines I have, the brother is my absolute favorite! That’s the one my mom gave me when she taught me how to sew. I don’t use the antique Pfaff that my grandma gave me because I keep it as decor. I’m so sentimental towards it that it’s like I refuse to send it off to someone for maintenance, so I just don’t use it ☹️
I lost my mom a few year’s ago. She was my mentor and most of all my best friend! I couldn’t imagine my life without her! She was only 69 when she passed in 2016.I miss her so much!! Cherish every moment you have with the people you love most. She taught me how to sew, knit and embroider when I was 10. I have been sewing on and off for many years. We had a Singer machine that folded into the built in working table. I think my grandmother purchased it in the 50’s?!? It actually has held up until last year when it finally broke and wasn’t repairable. I bought a new Singer because the old one was so sturdy... but they don’t make them like they used to! My passion now is knitting! Another extremely expensive craft! Anyway, I love your podcasts and look forward to seeing more of your episodes in the future.
Rachel and Mandy are two very blessed
young ladies to be receiving these from you.
And Merry Christmas to you and yours.
God Bless
As someone that is a self-taught seer and very passionate about aprons, from all eras. I have so enjoyed this video. I absolutely love the bat embroidery. So feminine with a touch of Victorian darkness. 👏👏👏 Bravo!
Christine you have an amazing gift for being so incredibly versatile in all that you create with an impeccable eye for detail! These aprons are stunning and the box that you made to put them in are beautiful! A true artist indeed! 💕❤🦇❤💕
That is so sweet to make another apron for someone who lost a mom. You are amazing! ❤
I need this and never knew it!! Was just thinking I should sew myself a new apron today while making dinner. This is so much better than what I was thinking.
I know, I was like a pinny would be good but this is a work of art.
I’m a self taught homesteader, baker, painter, carpenter, hair dresser, natural health and beauty products creator and herbalist. You’re my people 🖤
Shall I just say I fell in love with you the moment I saw your Netflix show. A talented person who self-taught herself a lot of things inspires me the most.
PS: I recently purchased my first sewing machine. I became a Bernina guy. ;)
I think what you did for Mandy, the lady who lost her mother, was very sweet and kind; I know we are in a different world now with COVID-19 and unfortunately for me and my family, we lost my mom to this deadly virus on July 10th; and today August 21, we laid her to rest along with her brother (my uncle, who passed away in 2018, just 3 days shy of my moms 75th birthday AND 30-minutes after her visit with him) and my sister Kimm (who died in 2015 after a 6yr battle with breast cancer); so it's been a very painful time. ALL were laid to rest Friday.....Why am I telling you this, because you've shown a heart of love and understanding. 🤍💜
I have my moms sewing machine, her sewing basket, her moms sewing basket and her moms (my great-grandmothers) sewing supplies!!! I feel truly blessed to have been given these things long before my mom passed. I learned to sew by my mom and my grandmother and I never lost the passion to sew. Your work is amazing and I can't wait to see more. Thank you for sharing and for these videos. There is hope sprinkled inside this video.🤍💛
P.S. (the kitties and your pup are the Star ✨of your show..LOL. They are adorable and I'm so sorry you lost your other kitties)💔🤍
I'm so sad your show only got one season, but so glad I found your channel. Your aesthetic is an equal blend of soothing, spooky and inspiring. 🖤💀🖤
Yes! Bring on the cocktail dress tutorials!!!! Tip for saving money on fabric - the thrift store is a great source. There are lots of old garments and occasionally curtains made of interesting, even luxurious fabrics. Ps, a good seam ripper will be your best friend if you go this route! I've made some lovely pieces this way
I'm so happy I found your channel as not just the end result but the fact that you take your time and don't speed up the small sewing details is wonderful.
I am a huge multi-tasker. I can't usually just watch something and only do that, so often I'll set up some youtube videos and maybe sew, maybe paint or draw, anything while watching. But with you I cannot do something else. I have to put my sole attention to watching this because it's so wonderfully produced! I know I will have to work harder at my sewing/painting/whatevering later but right now I have to put my full attention to this. Thank you Christine:)
Same here, I can't just sit, I have to be doing something. When watching
Christine I pay attention to only her.
As always your creativity is beyond inspiring! And not to downplay my love for you and your crafts, but your fur babies are just the little balls of fluffy sunshine my days need! Thanks for always including them!
Again , Christine is not from these world . Omg !!!! Everything that she does is stunning and out of these world
I love to sew. I sew like you do. I have been sewing for about 20 years. But not seriously until 15 years ago when I had my son. I like to create my own patterns from the clothes that I already own. Patterns are very expensive and sizing is hard. I love this apron and I will be making one. I have a sheet that is going to be the perfect material for it. I absolutely love your videos and miss you show on Netflix. But I am so glad that you have chosen to go this route so we are not left without your talent and amazing skills. Can't wait to see what you do next.
I got my brother sewing machine for 70$ and its lasted me over 10 yrs! Definitely sturdy.
Production value: Off the charts.
Creativity: Level 10,000
Satisfaction in watching this video: 100%
More, more, more!
Finally!!! Something I can actually do! I love you, Christine!
Ugh. Isn't she just THE BEST?! I normally think DIY is so boring to watch since I don't do DIY...but her videos are so simply interesting as is...and I wanna be reincarnated as her cat 😸
Yes I was just showing my cousin the Winchester gingerbread house. I've been waiting for a new episode. Awesome!!
I miss the show but this channel helps a lot I’m glad you created it Christine
Christine: I’m no expert but I thought I’d give this a try one day *expertly crafts thing*
Small observation, but I really like how Christine doesn't shoo away her pets while she's working. She kinda just moves them out of the way of what she's doing. It's kinda like they're involved in the project too. It could just be for the video but I still think it's sweet. 😊
Your've given me an idea on how to use the decorative stitches on my sewing machines. Never used them before and had a bit of a creative block for next sewing project but this helped.
Beautiful apron!
Also, oh my gods that's so kind of you - the apron you made because you cared and wanted to give some sort of comfort. #respect
this is coming from a man,
its stunning even down to the box,
your creativity has no bounds .
I get it all the work and imagination .
have a lovely day
simon
I own a 1960s pink "Atlas" sewing machine (okay two). They are divine and I could see you using one for display and to sew with. The never need to be binned for a broken plastic gear! I HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend a Singer 401A which came in tan/brown but have amazing little round knobs for stitch selection. So perfect. I have seen them re-painted in amazing pinks and blues. Vintage sewing machines can be very pleasing to look at and I love the all-metal ones. pre-1965
I can't believe they recommended you in my feed!! I loved your Halloween special! I was so hoping they added a season two this year. What luck finding you!! So happy!