Vintage Notions Book Club: Faith in my own two hands

I’m reading the May chapter a little later in the month than I had hoped. I have just returned from my biggest show of the year, one that took most of my attention these last few months. The May chapter of Vintage Notions is dedicated to appreciating your mother. Reading this was really appropriate for me as every big show I do has one mainstay, and that is my mother, Donna. My inspiration to start Indygo Junction and work in the world of sewing and craft came from my mother, who owned a fabric store, as well as my grandmother Mildred, who was a gifted painter. Spring Quilt Market is a huge event for us, and I wouldn’t be able to do it without my mom. She sewed all day and into the night for us, making sample upon sample and then spent the week with us at the show setting up, selling and tearing down. She is an integral part of my business, and I appreciate all the work she has done for me.

“My Woman’s Institute Course has meant a savings of much actual cash and of infinite worry. It has proved the most profitable investment my husband and I ever made. It has given me the ability to express my own personality in clothes that are mine and not to be duplicated. And it has given me something that is more than all of these —Faith in my own two hands” Mrs. C. D. McK., California

This is my favorite quote from Vintage Notions. It is one that I open my lectures with, and something I think about often when worrying about the little details of life. This reminds me to keep faith in myself and my decisions.

This month, The Department of Millinery reminds us that hats are practical, stylish and express individuality. Although this was written in 1928, I believe it is still applicable today. Of course, hats are not only fashionable, but also a great sunscreen for the upcoming summer months. Indygo Junction just released a Reversible Sun Hat pattern, which can be made with many different fabrics and trims and will provide style and sun safety this summer. It is also available in a children’s size!

Need some hat inspiration? Enjoy the gallery of vintage hats below…

In this chapter Mary Brooks Pickens discusses what each new day means to her…

“It is always like a new piece of cloth to use in the best way that I know. Material means so much to me – it’s texture, color, width and purpose- that even if it is only a kitchen curtain or cloth for dish toweling, it has it’s use and should be cut and made in the best way I know so that it may give the greatest satisfaction and comfort.”

How do you live your days to the fullest advantage? Do you have any daily rituals that bring happiness to your day?

P.S. If you’ve been enjoying our Vintage Notions Book Club series, but haven’t gotten the book yet, buy one for 30% off! Just enter the discount code, VN2013 at checkout!