…about my hobbies: sewing and fiber arts (knitting, for now). This blog is a diary, of sorts, to document all the projects I’ve started and finished so far.

My crafting journey began in childhood when my Grandma Nancy taught me how to crochet. Unfortunately, crochet didn’t stick. Every “square” I tried to stitch always turned into a trapezoid and I couldn’t figure out why. Granny square afghans were not to be in my future. So I gave up crochet and turned to another interest: sewing. As a teen, I took a class taught by a local seamstress, and eventually whipped up a simple skirt- my very first sewing project. I soon graduated to a pair of shorts (that I wore repeatedly), and a checkered green dress (it was the ’80s). I even modeled that dress in the class fashion show. I had dreams of becoming a fashion designer. Well, that didn’t pan out, as I was encouraged to consider more practical career paths. Like, eventually journalism, then law school (but law wasn’t my thing either).

After a few years working in the non-profit world, I got the creative bug back. I got into cosplay, starting with characters from the British TV series, Doctor Who, and later, historical costuming. I’ve got nothing on my sister, though, who has been an OG cosplayer since before it was called “cosplay.” I’m glad I can finally share this hobby with her.

I’ve been knitting since 2017, beginning with the iconic Doctor Who scarf. I’ve returned to sewing since roughly that same time, and my skills have jumped by leaps and bounds. But, with knitting and sewing, I still have much to learn. And that’s what I wish to share with you.

Why is the site called Nancy and Nettie? It’s a tribute to my Grandmother Nancy and my Great Aunt Nettie Catherine. Both were expert seamstresses who made clothing for clients and family. I’m sure they took pride in every piece they made. My desire to make comes from them. I even plan to return to crochet, and hopefully, see the last of any trapezoids (!)