Who could have imagined 1 year ago that life would still be as it is today!!
Many folks have had significant (and some permanent) changes to their work, family and circumstances in the past year. My heart is very much with those who have lost loved ones and financial security.
I too have been significantly impacted by the closure of my classroom at Conway Mill since March’20, moving the shop fully online and learning how to zoom and provide classes online! It’s been a steep learning curve but I’m thankful for it and the opportunity to learn new skills and to continue to earn a little. Thank you so much for your continuing support over the last 12 months, taking part in classes and buying from the shop. It has been a lovely way to stay in contact with you!
However, for financial and personal reasons, and after much deliberation and prayer, I’ve decided to permanently close down my classroom, and this week had the mammoth task of clearing the room and handing over the keys!
While there was sadness at removing the Just Jude Designs sign and locking the door for the last time, I will have nothing but fond and happy memories of our time there. Those who made it to the weekly classes, Saturday workshops or charity sewing days always made it a very special and inspiring time and I will miss the chatter, fun and laughter (not to mention the home baked goodies!) and the spirit of community and generosity created in that room.
My plan is to move house to be closer to my parents and continue Just Jude Designs online. I have taken a wee break from producing classes while I relocate (Zoom workshops will continue until end May), but hope to be able to provide more online services when I get established, possibly with a home studio. Ordering from the online shop will continue as normal (postage and collection options available as normal), though I may not have full stock of everything until after I move.
My prayer for you all is that, as life tentatively begins to return to some kind of normality, you will find new ways to meet together, to sew and create together and find new communities to get connected into. Please keep sewing and stay in touch with me. I will continue to send out my quarterly newsletter so you’ll get updated with developments and news that way, or check in with my ongoing chatter on the blog and website! But of course I’m only an email or WhatsApp away! So don’t be a stranger!
To everyone who has ever come to one of my in-person classes or workshops, thank you! You made it a joy to come to work!
My Spring'21 Newsletter went out to all subscribers yesterday and as a thank you for your ongoing support there is a 25% off all fabric coupon code for you to enjoy in our shop! (If you would like to subscribe to our newsletter and be the first to get news and special offers just input your email address on the right of the screen.)
Happy sewing!
