Creating unique pieces to share on your blog and inspire others: the sew & blog combo is all the rage. It's exactly because the number of bloggers keeps multiplying that Fibre Mood is featuring a new blogger every month. Get to know Trine.schroeder / Groovybaby and mama , find out what sewing means to her and what her role is in this community.
What made you decide to start your blog? And why did you start sewing and/or knitting?
My blogging career kicked off 10 years ago. I was inspired by other blogs and wanted to make my own creative contribution by personally inspiring others. It was only later that my Instagram presence took off, but it did end up blossoming into my favourite social media platform. I've noticed that I go to Instagram first when I'm on the lookout for inspiration, or when I'm ready to and am interested in inspiring others myself.
How did you learn to sew and/or knit?
When it comes to sewing, I'm actually entirely self-taught. It simply seemed to make sense and feel natural to do something creative as a hobby. I've always had hands just itching to do something creative, but in the past, I was quicker to reach for my pencils. As a child and teenager, I could spend whole days drawing away. My mum was also incredibly creative. She was always knitting, painting, drawing, crocheting and sewing (that last one stuck with me the most).
If you had to choose, which would you pick: sewing or knitting?
I never knit, so the choice between ‘never sewing again’ or ‘never knitting again’ isn’t much of a choice.
Where did you get the name for your blog? And why that one in particular?
Honestly, I can’t remember anymore how I ended up with my blog name. When I started blogging, the 1960s and 70s were a huge source of inspiration. And in all likelihood, ‘groovy’ was the best description for my style at the time. As far as my Instagram name goes, it’s not terribly original or overly creative. It’s just my name, ha-ha.
What do you think is your finest creation? Which one do your feel most proud of?
Goodness...I've already made such a lot of creations that it’s almost impossible to pick a favourite. If I really have to choose, then I’d probably go for a coat or a jumpsuit. (I'm a true jumpsuit addict)
What’s on your sewing to-do wish list?
The dress/suit that my daughter will wear for her Konfirmation. I'm a wee year and a half too early, but you can never start dreaming and planning too soon, can you? Right now, she has a cream-coloured jumpsuit in mind for the occasion.
What drives you the most batty when sewing?
Sewing by hand. I HATE it. I only do it if there's really no other option and it’s a task that's impossible to accomplish with my sewing machine.
Finding inspiration is part of the sewing process. Where do you find yours?
You can usually find me on Instagram, which is where I also get most of my inspiration. Well, that and – naturally – Pinterest.
What does your sewing room look like?
For quite some time I was relegated to a corner of the living room. Now I've got a whole room to myself. I'm absolutely in love with it.
Do you have a golden tip in mind for our starter Sewistas?
Start with easy projects like a skirt or a small top. And use woven fabric! Scour the internet for inspiration, ideas and simple free patterns.
