Seeing HOG (Harley-Davidson Owners Group) magazine and a Simplicity pattern on the same work table is not a frequent occurrence in my travels, but last fall while vending at the Original Sewing & Quilt Expo in Kansas City, I met the ever energetic and talented Virginia Phillips.
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| HOG and Simplicity Pattern |
Ever so gracious Virginia invited Rita Farro and I to her home before chowing down on ribs at Ricky's Pit BBQ one night and Stroud's Restaurant another night. Virginia has more than a passing interest in riding Harley's. She travels to local Harley dealerships setting up an on-site embroidery service for those hearty leather motorcycle jackets. Plus she creates custom garments for Harley customers - leather jackets, chaps and vests.
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| Leather Vest with Embroidery & Patches |
Virginia gets a very pretty penny for her work, and rightfully so. Just look at the detail in this leather vest.
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| Inside Detail of Leather Vest |
Every stitch is in place, but the remarkable feature is the side detail. This vest will last forever - no matter how the wearer's body will change or bulk up. Virginia's thoughtful solution is lace-up sides instead of the traditional side seam. Gain a few pounds, not a problem, just loosen the sides. Ingenious!
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| Harley T-Shirt Quilt |
On a lighter note Virginia showed a Harley t-shirt quilt hanging in her dining room that she made for her husband.
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| Just a Sampling of Virginia's Machines, Tools & Notions |
She sews on a variety of machines - home sewing and commercial machines with all the appropriate notions, tools, books and inspiration galore.
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| Glove Dyes |
We also saw a broad collection of glove dyes. Really, when was the last time you thought about making gloves? Maybe knit a pair of mittens, but sew a pair of gloves? Hmmmm, maybe next winter. . . .
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| The Dynamic Virginia! |
Virginia, thanks so much for sharing your love of sewing. Glad to know SCHMETZ is your favorite needle brand! Learning about your experiences as a nurse, American Red Cross volunteer, brewer of Kombucha (a miracle health tea), Street Strider elliptical trike rider, foodie and Kansas City historian made a nice trip . . . . fabulous and delicious too!
http://www.sewingexpo.com/
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