So little time, so much to do..

If you were a teenager back in the 90's like me, you’re probably singing that phrase in your mind, too. (… I’d like to spend my days with you…)

But, in general, no matter how cliché that sounds, it’s a fact – especially for creatives who refuse to allow idle minds (and hands) dwell inside their bodies. You want to do so many things yet the one thing that needs to be done first is missing – manage that list!

My idea mapping

A month ago, it dawned on me that it has been 11 months since I’ve been riding this fun, sometimes grueling but still incredibly blissful ride (to happiness)! AtelierniSHASHA will be celebrating its first anniversary on September 1! Can you believe it, ‘cause I’m like, no way, Jose! But seriously, it had been an incredible journey – the lessons I’ve learned, the people I met (virtually and personally), the skills I (sort of) mastered, the unwavering support from family and friends, and the happiness I get – they are a life-changing event.  It feels like I’m a whole new, grown person, not only when I’m working in the atelier, but also outside. Oh, and about that atelier thing. I’ll let you in on short story.

It was 2009 when I bought my sewing machine. I had wanted to sew (via the machine; I’d been hand-sewing my whole life it hurts J) so I got me one basic machine. Then I saw (and of course, bought) a Fashion doll at a toy convention a month later – and the rest is history. It was a Barbie and boy, she made me rediscover my second love – sewing for dolls (I’ll tell you about my first love next time.)!!! I named her Tabitha, and yes, she has modeled some of my ANS clothes, but has not yet been “published”.  You should meet her sometime.

Since 2009, I had been sewing from my husband’s music studio (where he evicted me after seeing my mess – duh, it was organized mess, geez :P), our bedroom, my son’s bedroom, the garage, the dining table, and finally, a small corner in the living room. So, as you can tell, my entire house is actually my atelier! That was the short story, and probably, a loving joke to the vastness of my atelier or absence of one, whichever suits your whimsy. J

So, what I really wanted to say is (aside from confessing that I do digress when I share stories) that there’s a lot more to expect from the atelier in the future. The idea mapping may not look that promising, but I’m telling you – when you jump in on the next ride, it’s really gonna be awesome! For now, I can’t tell you yet what’s in store – as I usually change minds often. But, let me start with…

Please check out my Etsy shop for more details and let me know what you think!

I really want to reach out to more doll collectors this year, pretty much because I’m not just a garment engineer – I am a doll collector, too. But that’s another story haha (digressing again….)

‘Til next time, dolly friends!