De Textielbeurs: who – what – where?

textielbeurs

What made you fall in love with the sewing sector or made you decide to give it a go there?

I grew up making my own clothes and surrounded by fabrics, sewing machines and creativity from an early age. My parents were also active in the sector, and that’s where I got my first taste. It was awesome.

So, how long has your business been up and running?

I’ve already been involved in fabric sales, mending garments and churning out new sewing projects for over 18 years. Meanwhile, that start has grown into four shops spread across North Brabant and Limburg, where we sell sewing and embroidery machines, but also loads of haberdashery, fabric, and knitting and crocheting yarns. We also offer sewing classes and workshops. 

Why should a sew Sewista buy their fabrics ‘offline’ instead of online? 

It's crucial that a person be able to see and feel the fabric. We advise people on how to match the right fabric with the right pattern. The result is that people can work on their projects worry-free, and we're available to help out when they need it. That means we also see ourselves a service, with expertise on how things work. There's a real need for that.

What should Sewistas expect from your shop? 

Whichever way you look at it, we provide professional advice. Our business revolves around 2 concepts: 

De Textielbeurs, which is our all-in concept – your go-to for high-quality fashion fabrics for young and old, great patterns, the right haberdashery for your project, and sewing and embroidery machines and overlockers. 

- Baens Embroidery and Sewing Machine Shop, where our focus is primarily on sewing machines, embroidery machines and overlockers. 

Where do you find inspiration for your new fabric and pattern purchases?

We partner with regular suppliers, ones that we’ve specially selected – where we can rely on the quality and which brainstorm with us to come up with a gorgeous collection every six months. Fibre Mood is that kind of partner, brimming with innovative ideas. We're happy we met them.

What was the first pattern you ever made? 

The first thing I ever made (I was 13 at the time.) was a pair of dungarees in sewing class– which worked out well! Goodness, I was so proud! 

Have you noticed a revival in the DIY/sewing business?

 It seems like the whole of the Netherlands wants to start making its own stuff with beautiful fabrics. Young people are especially into it, although it’s not the same as it was in the past. In the past, you’d do it out of necessity because clothes were so dear. Nowadays though, making something out of a fabric you selected is totally in. 

What Sewista do you look up to? (For example, your mum, grandmother, a blogger, etc.) 

There are so many people who make lovely things. Obviously, my mum has been helping me since I was just a wee thing. 

What’s your big dream? [For your shop, or what you might like to make in future...) 

My big dream already came true; there are so many wonderful, creative spirits for whom we really make a difference. However, even better is always fine with me, obviously. 

What are your Fibre Mood favourites?  

 Wallys is a super cute wrap blouse that you can also wear as a jacket (Fibre Mood No. 5) and my favourite Fibre Mood fabric is f91044, the one they used for the Vienna Dress.

What pattern would you recommend to newbie Sewistas? 

There’s a dress called Robyn in Fibre Mood No. 5. It was rated as somewhat challenging, but it’s actually not so hard. 

What pattern is perfect for Sewistas who are looking for a challenge? 

Again, I’d have to say Wallys, which happens to be marked as pretty easy, but is actually a bit harder. Hugo is in that same issue, Fibre Mood No. 5, and makes for a nice challenge due to the polo closure. 

Do you have any golden tips to share with our Fibre Mood Sewistas? 

Start with the basics. Ask for help when you get stuck, and keep on learning, step-by-step! It’s an amazingly delightful hobby, and you can pour so much of yourself into it. You'll be enjoying it for the rest of your life.